Click the play button on the video window to the right to see the storyMIAMI, AZ – Miami's really old sewer system is falling apart.
"We knew we were having problems with it," said Town Administrator Ray Pini.
Underneath U.S. 60 in Miami, about 10 miles west of Globe, is 3,000 feet of sewer pipes.
"The rule of thumb is that they last 50 or 60 years before they are antiquated, ours is 100 percent antiquated," said Pini.
See the attached photo slideshow to view damage to the pipesThose pipes were built in 1920, nearly 90 years ago.
"We have a slight sewer problem," said Miami resident Susan Hanson with a laugh.
Her house was flooded by sewage when the pipes backed up.
"It collapsed below and it piled up and then just blew in there," said Hanson.
The city inspected the pipes underground and found that they were in horrible shape. Some were completely gone.
Now officials plan to replace 14 miles of pipe under the city starting with 3,000 feet under U.S. 60.
The town has asked for $18 million in federal stimulus money to fix the problem.
"What we want is a completely rebuilt collection system," said Pini.
Hanson hopes the new sewer will bring more life into this small community.
"Everyone loves their homes and they are trying so very hard to keep the town together and improve it and this is the start," said Hanson.
No word on when the new system is expected to be completed.
