Members of the New York Building Congress have voiced strong support for the vital yet controversial measure, which faced initial opposition from local community leaders and residents who objected to the temporary loss of portions of the Park.

In order to proceed with construction of the plant, which will filter drinking water from the Croton system, approval was required by both the City and State, either or which has authority to block construction projects on City parkland.

In an effort to update members of the design, construction and real estate industry on the necessity of the project and to rally support, the Building Congress and the General Contractors Association co-sponsored a special policy forum in April, which was attended by several hundred industry
leaders.

The site for the City’s $1.3 billion Croton Water Filtration Plant under the Mosholu Golf Course in The Bronx’s Van Cortlandt Park has been confirmed.

During the forum, New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Christopher Ward said that for economic and environmental
reasons, Van Cortlandt Park is the best site for the filtration plant, the construction of which has been mandated by the federal government. Commissioner Ward added that the City is committed to restoring and improving the Park and Golf Course when construction is complete and to investing in further improvements to Bronx public recreation facilities.

Members of the industry also voiced their support for the project during meetings with key public officials in Albany and City Hall. During testimony before the New York City Council, Building Congress President Richard T. Anderson stated, “DEP has provided a commendable solution to a complex problem, and the Directors and members of the Building Congress are strongly in support of this project.”

“Building infrastructure projects under City parks has been done before and done successfully,” Anderson added.“Building in The Bronx brings thousands of employment opportunities and $1 billion in economic investment to that borough and the City as a whole. Moreover, DEP has promised $200 million in community improvements as a part of the overall package.”

The Croton water system consists of 12 reservoirs and three controlled lakes located in Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess Counties.The smallest of the City’s three reservoir systems, Croton ordinarily provides about 10 percent of the City’s water, though in times of drought or maintenance shutdowns, it can provide up to 30 percent of the City’s daily needs. Construction of the Croton Water Filtration Plant is part of a long-term water quality strategy that also includes enhanced watershed protection.