More than 150 storm drains around St. Paul have been removed by vandals, according to the city’s Public Works Department.
Those responsible are removing the sewer grates and then dropping them into the storm drains, leaving an open hole that could be hazardous for pedestrians, those on bikes and vehicles.
“This malicious behavior is unacceptable and extremely dangerous to everyone, including drivers, walkers, and bikers,” said St. Public Works Director Sean Kershaw, in a statement. “We’re asking for the public’s help to keep a watchful eye on their neighborhoods and report any issues or suspicious behaviors to the police and also immediately report any open storm sewers to Public Works.”
If you see someone removing a storm drain grate call 911 to report it to police.
To report missing grates or other storm drain damage call Public Works at 651-266-9850 during weekday business hours. After hours or on weekends, call 651-266-9700 and leave a detailed message of the location.
City officials also are asking that residents with storm drains missing or damaged in their neighborhood check any private video footage to see if they caught images of individuals removing the storm drain grates. Provide any footage to police.
According to city officials, initial reports of vandalism to storm sewer grates began in early June. It has increased and spread to several neighborhoods, including West Side, Frogtown, Summit Hill, Downtown, and the East Side.
City crews are responding to all reports and replacing storm drains as quickly as possible.
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