Razing of Fraser homes near sinkhole starts Friday

Demolition work will begin Friday on two Fraser homes damaged by a sewer collapse along 15 Mile, Macomb County officials said.

The demolition represents a major turning point in the recovery process, said Candice Miller, Macomb County Public Works commissioner.

“Demolition of these homes is the beginning of the process to replace the damaged interceptor and repair the sewer line,” Miller said in a statement Thursday. “The work done to this point has primarily been about creating a long-term bypass system to allow sewage to flow around the damaged interceptor, while ensuring that we do so in a way that is safe for people and for the environment.”

A 100-foot-wide, 250-foot-long sinkhole emerged on 15 Mile near Eberline, just east of Hayes, on Christmas Eve after the interceptor collapsed. Officials said it was caused by a leaking interceptor sewer main under 15 Mile.

Miller said work has been continuous at the site since the collapse.

Three houses near the sinkhole have been condemned.

“Our most heartfelt sympathies go out to these impacted families,” Miller said in her statement. “We cannot imagine the emotions and the challenges they’ve had to work through since this all began. What’s amazing is just how composed they have been through all of this. These families really exemplify who we are and who we aspire to be in Macomb County.”

A portion of the demolition and acquisition of the condemned houses is being funded by a $99,999 grant from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, officials said. Demolition work is expected to take a couple days.

Next week, construction crews will begin to dig a 300-foot-long shaft to replace and repair the 11-foot diameter interceptor. The repair is expected to be complete in September and repaving of 15 Mile complete by Thanksgiving, officials said.

cwilliams@detroitnews.com

(313) 222-2311