Wantagh pumping station to ease water woes

The pumping system being installed includes a new well, piping and pumps that will be housed within two small, one-story structures on American Water's property on Demott Avenue and Interlake Drive.

The new system will help alleviate chronic low water pressure issues and enhance flow for fire protection during critical high-demand usage periods in the area, officials said.

"This is another example of New York American Water's commitment to investing in essential infrastructure and providing innovative solutions to meet our customer needs," American Water president William Varley said in a statement. "This system will not only incorporate state-of-the-art technology, but it will increase the system's efficiency in meeting demand during critical peak usage periods."

The plan proposed in 2011 by the previous water operator, Aqua New York Inc., called for erecting a water tower, which company officials said was needed to boost pressure. Residents opposed the project, saying the tower would be an eyesore and would reduce property values.

Aqua later dropped the plan, and the company was purchased by American Water in May 2012.

"A water tower was simply not the answer for this residential neighborhood," Councilwoman Angie Cullin said in a statement. "I am proud of the efforts of our local officials and neighbors to come up with a better solution to the problem."

American Water is planning to begin construction in the next couple of weeks and anticipates completion by the third quarter of this year, Varley said.

"Water is essential to life, and is why we came together as a team of concerned stakeholders to form a cutting-edge solution to low water pressure in the Wantagh and Seaford communities," Town Supervisor Kate Murray said in a statement.