Beware of open storm sewer drains on St. Paul streets.
St. Paul Public Works Director Sean Kershaw says vandals have removed more than 150 protective grates since early June.
"We know that they're not stealing it for scrap, they're not breaking them, but what we're concerned about is incredibly dangerous if you ride your bike into them or walk into them or drive into these open catch basins," says Kershaw.
He says the vandals have been dropping the grates into the storm sewers and that crews are retrieving and replacing them as quickly as possible. Kershaw adds that they pose a safety hazard to walkers, bikers and drivers.
"We're grateful that the public, like they have been on copper wire theft, has been very, very helpful," says Kershaw. "So the public is a partner with us in trying to address this and we're grateful that people are keeping their eyes open."
He says anyone who notices suspicious activity around storm sewers should call 911.
