Streets are a key element of the livability of any community. More and more, roadways are being used by not just motorists, but also bicyclists, pedestrians and wheelchair users. We work not to just repair or re-build Ottumwa's streets, but also to build transportation networks that are safer, more livable, and welcoming to everyone. We maintain and repair approximately 170 miles of streets and 60 miles of alleys.
Ottumwa's sewer system moves millions of gallons per day, either to the Water Pollution Control Facility, or in the case of stormwater runoff, back to our natural waterways. Keeping the system operational is important for the whole community.
Ditches, streets, curbs, gutters and storm sewers all carry rainwater away to natural waterways. Communities everywhere work to minimize pollutants in stormwater runoff to the maximum extent practicable.
The department handles maintenance and repair of city-owned vehicles and equipment. This includes such departments as police, fire, public works, and more.
Sidewalks are an important, but yet often neglected part of the City's transportation system. We work to ensure that sidewalks are safe for pedestrians and meet handicap requirements.
Clearing snow from winter storms is a big operation. The City has a fleet of snow plows ready to roll with big blades plus salt and sand spreaders on the back.
The traffic maintenance team of the Public Works department is responsible for the designing of special signs as well as the replacement of signs when necessary due to deterioration, vandalism, damage and theft. We also paint center lines, lane arrows, stop bars, cross walks and all parking spaces on the street and in city lots.
The City of Ottumwa reminds drivers to be prepared for varying driving conditions in construction areas. Drivers can expect work zones to interrupt their usual driving habits. In work zones along any road, major or minor, be ready for unexpected conditions.
Use this form to report items like potholes, missing signs, safety concerns, and plugged storm drains.
ALL CONTACT INFORMATION, OTHER THAN E-MAIL, MUST BE FILLED IN. A FORM WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED FILLED OUT UNLESS IT IS.
Return filled out forms to one of the following:
Public Works - 550 Gateway Drive
City Hall (Train Depot) - 210 West Main Street
E-mail Return Instructions:
As part of construction, it is often necessary to dig up part of your yard next to the street known as the right-of-way. Once the work is complete, the dirt will be backfilled, generally leveled, and grass seed will be sown. Many property owners take the time to rake and level the dirt and sow their choice of grass seed. In any case, the success of any seeding is lies in keeping grass seed bed moist to enhance germination and continuing to water lightly until new grass is two inches high. Please be aware, if you have trees or shrubs growing in the right-of-way, they may be removed as well. The City does not replace trees, shrubs or landscaping features removed from the right-of-way.
If you have a tree you are concerned about, please contact the City Engineering office at (641) 683-0680. Our office is typically open Monday through Friday, from 7AM to 3:30PM.
Residents and business owners are reminded that blowing grass into the street is prohibited. Though a seemingly harmless act, grass clippings eventually make their way into the sewer system. Over time this material can build up and lead to the sewer plugging, causing sewer backups into nearby homes.
There are areas within the Ottumwa City Limits where multiple households are served by a private, common sewer line that may extend some distance before connecting with a public sewer. Private sewers are the responsibility of the property owners and are not maintained by the City of Ottumwa. It is not uncommon for property owners to be unaware that they are connected to a private sewer line.
