Syracuse Water Department outlines infrastructure repairs and staffing challenges

During the Department of Water Budget Hearing held on April 23, 2025, in Syracuse, NY, officials highlighted significant operational accomplishments and ongoing challenges that directly impact the community's water services.

In the fiscal year 2024-2025, the department reported the successful repair of 207 water main breaks, with 124 occurring in the first four months of the year alone. Additionally, over 200 service replacements were completed, and 15 new fire hydrants were installed to enhance public safety. The department also distributed more than 6,000 Brita filters to residents, aiming to improve water quality and accessibility.

Key projects discussed included the installation of a new 24-inch valve at Syracuse University to boost water pressure and ongoing work on various pump station replacements. The department is also initiating lead service replacement projects, addressing public health concerns related to aging infrastructure.

However, the meeting revealed a pressing issue: the department currently has 16 vacancies, primarily in water maintenance positions. Officials noted that many of these positions have been unfilled for several years due to retirements and resignations. To tackle this challenge, a job fair is planned for April 29, 2025, to attract new talent and fill these critical roles.

The discussion also touched on compliance with environmental regulations and the need for community engagement. Upcoming projects include the Mowgensley pump station project and various main replacements aimed at improving service reliability across the city.

With a workforce of 90 employees, the department is committed to maintaining and enhancing Syracuse's water infrastructure, ensuring that residents receive safe and reliable water services. The outcomes of this meeting underscore the importance of addressing staffing challenges and investing in infrastructure to meet the community's needs effectively.