Officials in the Town of Colchester are considering what comes next for the Cooks Falls Water System — a critical infrastructure issue that affects public health, reliability, and long-term planning for the community.
The system, which serves residents in Cooks Falls, is currently supplied by a spring. But the New York State Department of Health has required the town to identify a secondary, more reliable water source.
In a conversation with Radio Catskill, The Reporter editor Lillian Browne said the issue has been under review for some time.
“The Department of Health has required the water district to find a secondary source of water,” Browne explained, noting that options could include drilling a new well or developing an alternative supply.
While residents are not currently facing major water shortages, the system has experienced infrastructure challenges — particularly during the winter months.
Recent water main breaks led to service disruptions and a boil water advisory, which has since been lifted.
At a recent town board meeting, officials took an early step toward addressing the issue by reviewing proposals from engineering firms. That process — known as a request for qualifications — will help determine how a new or upgraded system could be designed.
The potential project could include a new well and storage tank, but it is still in the preliminary stages.
“This is just the first step,” Browne said.
The cost of the project has not yet been determined. However, officials expect it to be a multi-million-dollar effort, with funding likely coming from a mix of state grants and low-interest loans.
According to Browne, those funding sources could cover a significant portion of the cost — potentially between 60 and 80 percent — depending on the project’s scope and eligibility.
Timing will be key.
The Colchester Town Board is expected to select an engineering firm in the coming weeks, with initial grant applications potentially due as soon as the end of May.
“These grants are very competitive and need-based,” Browne said, adding that the system’s reliance on a single spring source could strengthen its case for funding.
Beyond the need for a backup water supply, the system is also dealing with aging infrastructure.
Some recent issues — including frozen pipes — were linked to shallow pipe placement and construction changes, while ongoing leaks point to broader maintenance concerns.
“The more prominent problem… has been leaks in their piping system,” Browne said.
Future upgrades are expected to address those issues as well, potentially including new water mains and improved system design.
For now, town officials are at the beginning of what could be a complex and costly process — one that aims to ensure a more reliable and resilient water system for Cooks Falls residents.
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