November 7, 2008

CONTACT:

Mercedes Padilla / Angel Ramon (718) 595-6600

DEP Announces Completion of Silver Lake Reservoir Bridge Rehabilitation

NYCDEP Reopens Pedestrian Bridge at Historic Silver Lake Park Reservoir

The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced today the reopening of the roadway at Silver Lake Reservoir.  DEP Acting Commissioner Steven Lawitts and New York City Council Member  Michael E. McMahon led a ribbon cutting ceremony that capped the rehabilitation of the Silver Lake Reservoir dividing wall and gatehouse.

“The roadway on which we are standing was completed over 90 years ago. This bridge connects us to that past and offers a glimpse of that era. This rehabilitation project has resulted in an improved bridge that will be enjoyed by all park visitors,” said Acting Commissioner Lawitts.  “It is always a win-win when a project with a public works mission meets public space needs to enhance quality of life.”

“The Silver Lake Transverse Bridge is the centerpiece of the Silver Lake Park. All Staten Islanders who use Silver Lake Park have been anxiously awaiting the reopening of the bridge,” said Council Member McMahon.  “School running teams, dog walkers, families and all other visitors to the Park use this bridge to exercise and enjoy the inherent scenic beauty of the reservoir and park.  I am excited to be here today with the DEP to reopen this community asset.”

The Silver Lake Reservoir dividing wall and gatehouse rehabilitation was a three-phase project that included dam restoration and work on breaches and roadway load bearing. The first phase, from September 2006 to December 2007, consisted of gatehouse repairs including new roof installation, exterior masonry cleanup as well as catch basin repairs. Phase 2, from April 2007 to December 2007, consisted of removing and resetting most of the existing aesthetic bridge wall cast sections and base areas and included the replication of new base and center baluster and capstones. Phase 3, from April 2008 to September 2008 consisted of sidewalk, curb and pavement work, dam breach repairs, and catch basin installation.

The New York City Department of Environmental Protection manages the City’s water supply, providing more than 1.1 billion gallons of water each day to more than 9 million residents throughout New York State through a complex network of nineteen reservoirs, three controlled lakes and 6,200 miles of water pipes, tunnels and aqueducts. DEP is also responsible for managing storm water throughout the City and treating wastewater at 14 in-City wastewater treatment plants. DEP carries out federal Clean Water Act rules and regulations, handles hazardous materials emergencies and toxic site remediation, oversees asbestos monitoring and removal, enforces the City's air and noise codes, bills and collects on City water and sewer accounts, and manages city-wide water conservation programs.