Rainy weather can't stop Halcottsville water project

Catskill Mountain News
October 1, 2003 

Despite uncooperative weather, work on the new water system for the hamlet of Halcottsville is steadily moving toward its targeted completion date.

Jeff Laban, project manager for the Lamont, VanDeValk, Buckman and Whitbeck PC engineering firm, said this week that the goal for having the system operational remains November 16.

Mr. Laban said that there should be no problem in getting the new Halcottsville Water District system operational this fall. He indicated that all efforts are being made to complete all phases of the project by mid - December. This work includes topsoil replenishing, re-seeding and sidewalk repairs and driveway repairs in areas that were disturbed by the work.

If mild weather persists, this work should be finished on schedule. However, in the event of the onset of an early winter, there may be delays until spring for this restoration work, Mr. Laban stated.

Work on the $481,000 project to construct a new water system for the hamlet began on July 28. The venture is being funded with grant money secured by the Town of Middletown.

When complete the project will provide water connections for 46 parcels. These include vacant properties that could be developed, Mr. Laban explained. The water district encompasses Main Street, up Bragg Hollow to the water tank location and 260 feet along Old River Road.

The work is being performed by Dean Calice Construction of Greene. The project includes new water mains, meters and curb boxes for each parcel. Property owners have the option of replacing waterlines from the curb to their homes, but this is an expense that falls to individuals unless they meet certain income guidelines. The contractors will notify homeowners if it appears that their waterlines are in need of replacement.