November 17, 2020
For Immediate Release
Contact: Michael Dawson, Water Quality Manager
Jefferson County Public Health
360-385-9444 ext. 301

Port Townsend – The City of Port Townsend reported a sewage overflow at the intersection of Water and Monroe Streets in Port Townsend on Monday evening, November 16, 2020, due to a water main breakage. Repairs were made promptly and the overflow was ended by 9:00 pm. Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) collected water samples in nearby Port Townsend Bay and will have bacteria results within 24 hours. In the meantime, JCPH has issued a “No Contact” Health Advisory for the shoreline from Madison Street to the entrance to Point Hudson marina. This includes Pope Marine Park, the Port Townsend Salmon Club boat ramp and the Northwest Maritime Center. The public is advised to avoid contact with the water including swimming, boating, and fishing. Contact with fecal contaminated waters can result in gastroenteritis, skin rashes, upper respiratory infections, and other illnesses. Anyone exposed to marine water in this area and who is experiencing symptoms should contact a health care provider.

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Jefferson County Public Health
Always Working for a Safer and Healthier Community