SARATOGA SPRINGS — Installation of new storm water infrastructure is underway on Clement Avenue near the city’s North Side playground, Department of Public Works Commissioner Jason Golub announced on June 16.
The storm water project will solve historic flooding issues that occur during major rain events and the springtime snowmelt, and is anticipated to take two to three weeks.
“Flooding issues combined with a high traffic volume located next to a playground is a recipe for disaster,” said Golub, in a statement. “The installation of storm water infrastructure will reduce flooding and increase safety. I’m also proud to report that the DPW work force is installing the infrastructure in-house, saving taxpayer dollars and showcasing their capabilities.”
The improvements will be constructed using DPW labor. Funding for the project comes from the city’s capital budget in a dedicated line for storm water improvements. Typical engineering cost estimates for similar projects have averaged hundreds of thousands of dollars, Golub said, by performing the work in-house. The department estimates at completion the project will cost approximately $30,000.