Health Dept closes Colorado Lagoon after sewage spill

Long Beach City Health Officer Helene Calvet, M.D., has issued a beach closure order for the Colorado Lagoon following a sewage spill Tuesday morning near 3rd Street and Granada Avenue. The spill entered into the storm system and sewage eventually reached Colorado Lagoon.

The spill was reported to the City’s Department of Health and Human Services at about 8:40 am and was estimated at approximately 876 gallons. The sewage discharge has been contained and crews are currently working to remove the blockage. Long Beach Water Department will investigate the cause of the spill.

Lifeguards have posted the affected areas at the Lagoon with closure signs.  A decision on the duration of the beach closure and postings will be based on water test results.  The Health Department will conduct daily bacterial testing until bacteria levels are demonstrated to be within state standards.  All water contact activity will be prohibited in this area until bacteria levels are safe for swimming as determined by the City Health Officer.

Additional details about the water quality in Long Beach can be found online at www.longbeach.gov/health, by calling the Department of Health and Human Services Water Quality Information Line at (562) 570-4199.