Director requests up to $350,000 more for Hollowbrook Dam repairs after inspection

Dave Rambo, speaking for Water and Sewer, updated the council on Hollowbrook Dam rehabilitation work and requested additional funding to address newly identified deficiencies exposed after draining.

Dave said the DEC cited the dam in 2018 and Westchester County previously committed significant flood‑mitigation funding for rehabilitation. He said initial construction bids were in the $2.18–$2.5 million range and the city previously authorized using up to about $2.952 million from the water fund to proceed. After draining and installing a bypass and bypass pipe, engineers identified additional deterioration — including spalled concrete and anchoring requirements into rock outcrops — that require further geotechnical investigation and corrective work.

"So we're looking at, possible not to exceed $350,000," Dave said, asking the council to authorize up to that amount from the water fund for change orders and geotechnical services. He said the design approach (including shotcrete and anchors) should provide 25–50 years of service if constructed to specification and that staff hope to complete major elements by the end of the year.

Councilors thanked Dave for the proactive work, asked about schedule uncertainties and noted the public‑safety rationale for timely repairs. Staff will bring a formal resolution requesting the additional authorization for council consideration and continue to report progress and cost detail as change orders are finalized.