FAQs

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Catskill Aqueduct Shutdown

1. Why are we getting our water from another source?: New Castle usually gets its water from the Ashokan Reservoir via the Catskill Aqueduct. This aqueduct is also used to provide drinking water to millions of New York City residents. The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has begun a multi-year project to repair the century-old Catskill Aqueduct. This project requires DEP to shut down the Catskill Aqueduct for 15 weeks. As a result of this work, New Castle’s water source will change as of October 1. During the shutdown, we will get our water via the New Croton Aqueduct, which draws from the Croton Reservoir.

2. How long will this last?: DEP will shut down the Catskill Aqueduct as of October 1, 2021, and it will be out of service through mid-January 2022. As a result, New Castle’s water source will switch to the Croton Reservoir as of Friday, October 1, 2021. The Catskill Aqueduct rehabilitation project began in 2018, a similar 10 week shutdown occurred in 2020 and another is planned for 2022.

3. Will I notice a difference in my water?: Some people may detect a difference in the taste of their water because it is coming from a different source. Waters coming from the Ashokan and Croton Reservoirs are exposed to different kinds of bedrock, minerals, and other natural features, which can cause them to taste slightly different.

4. Is the water safe?: YES! All water that is treated at the Millwood Water Treatment Plan is thoroughly tested and exceeds the stringent requirements of the New York State Department of Health.

6. Where can I get additional information?: For further information please contact the Millwood Water Plant at 914-944-0036 or 914-944-0037 and ask for the Plant Manager John Young or the Assistant Plant Manager Paul Steirs Monday through Friday 8 am to 4 pm.