Bethlehem officials will be sending letters next week that tell residents to disconnect any underground spouts and direct the storm water onto their lawns. The spouts likely hook into the underground sewer pipes, which are being filled with storm water that cascades into them during heavy rains. The water is backing up the city’s feeder lines, causing water to overflow in Freemansburg. The City is drawing their authority from an old ordinance that prohibits downspouts, sump pumps and other devices that direct surface runoff from connecting to the century-old sewer system. City officials believe homeowners can fix the problem at minimal cost.
 
Source: The Morning Call, 7.9.08