February 1, 2010

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DEP, DDC Complete Clove Road Water Main Restoration

New 48-inch Water Main Is Back in Service, Ensuring More Reliable Water Supply System

The NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the NYC Department of Design and Construction (DDC) have put back into service a crucial 48-inch water main on Clove Road in Staten Island, marking the completion of a two-and-a-half year, $27 million water main restoration project that ensures a more reliable water supply system for Staten Island.

"The restoration of water mains on Clove Road is just one example of how Mayor Bloomberg is ensuring that our vast water distribution network remains reliable and viable," said Environmental Protection Commissioner Cas Holloway. "Every day, New Yorkers rely on approximately 7,000 miles of tunnels, aqueducts and water mains to supply and distribute more than 1 billion gallons of the best drinking water in the country to homes and businesses throughout the five boroughs. The new and improved Clove Road water mains—the spine of the Staten Island water supply system—replace deteriorated, century-old infrastructure that required frequent repairs. Staten Island residents will be served by this vastly improved system for decades to come."

"City agencies, elected and civic leaders and the general public knew from the outset that a project of this magnitude, while absolutely necessary, would result in inconvenience for local residents and those who travel this busy corridor," said DDC Commissioner David J. Burney, FAIA. "As the conclusion approaches, I thank Staten Islanders for their patience and understanding as we provide a renewed water supply system and totally reconstructed roadway that will serve the public for years to come."

The 48-inch water main placed back into service today completes the underground work on the project. Street restoration will continue until April. The 66-inch trunk main that was replaced by a 72-inch main was over 100 years old and its connecting distribution mains were prone to breaking and causing water pressure problems. The Clove Road water main restoration project was funded by DEP and managed by DDC. Halcyon Construction Corp. performed the work, which included the installation of distribution water mains, sanitary and storm sewers, curbs, sidewalks and bus stops.

DEP manages the City’s water supply, providing more than 1 billion gallons of water each day to more than 9 million residents. New York City’s water is delivered from a watershed that extends more than 125 miles from the City, and comprises 19 reservoirs, and three controlled lakes. Approximately 7,000 miles of water mains, tunnels and aqueducts bring water to homes and businesses throughout the five boroughs, and 7,400 miles of sewer lines take wastewater to 14 in-City treatment plants.