Water Department addresses rising main breaks amid extreme temperature fluctuations

Syracuse's Joint Public Works & Economic Development Committee convened on March 19, 2025, to address pressing infrastructure concerns, particularly regarding the city's aging water main system. A significant focus of the meeting was the alarming increase in water main breaks, attributed to extreme weather fluctuations and aging infrastructure.

Commissioner Brann highlighted that since January 1, 2025, 25% of water main breaks involved pipes of 12 inches or larger, a notable shift from the usual occurrences in smaller mains. This year alone, the city experienced an unprecedented number of breaks, with 11 reported in just one week. The committee discussed the potential impact of climate change, noting that warmer temperatures followed by sudden cold snaps may be exacerbating the problem.

The committee also examined the condition of the water mains, many of which are over 30 years old. The discussion included the need for proactive measures, such as wrapping vulnerable pipes and installing sensors to detect leaks more quickly. These steps aim to reduce water loss and improve response times to emergencies.

In a related issue, the committee expressed frustration over the lack of cooperation from Aqua, the water utility company, during a recent incident where a frozen pipe required immediate attention. The inability to secure timely assistance from Aqua forced the city to hire a private contractor, raising concerns about the utility's responsiveness in critical situations.

As Syracuse grapples with these infrastructure challenges, the committee's discussions underscore the urgent need for investment in the city's water system to ensure reliable service and mitigate future risks. The city plans to implement protective measures and enhance monitoring systems as part of its ongoing efforts to address these pressing issues.