From Cesspools to Clean Water: Patchogue’s Path to Environmental and Economic Revival
Village of Patchogue, Long Island, NY
Addressing Long-Standing Environmental and Infrastructure Challenges in Patchogue, NY
Patchogue, a historic village in Suffolk County, New York, faced significant environmental and infrastructure challenges that impacted both the residents' quality of life and the local economy. The village’s reliance on outdated wastewater systems, including failing septic tanks and cesspools, contributed to groundwater contamination. This not only degraded water quality in the Great South Bay but also harmed local industries such as clamming, which is vital to the area’s economy.
Watch Case Study Video - Part 1
Key Challenges
- Environmental Pollution: Failing septic systems and cesspools polluted groundwater and the Great South Bay, impacting local ecosystems and industries.
- Difficult Terrain: High water tables, frequent flooding, and sandy soil made traditional gravity sewer systems costly and complex to install.
- Traffic Disruptions: Patchogue’s dense population and busy streets made traditional sewer installation impractical due to the need for deep trenches and road closures.
Solution: E/One’s ALL-TERRAIN SEWER™ System
To address these complex challenges, Patchogue chose to implement E/One’s ALL-TERRAIN SEWER™, a pressure sewer system that offered several key advantages over traditional gravity sewer systems.
- Minimally Disruptive Installation: Small-diameter pipes were installed in shallow trenches with minimal excavation, reducing roadwork and disruption. Directional drilling helped place pipes under roads and utilities without extensive digging.
- Environmental Impact: By replacing failing septic systems and cesspools, the pressure sewer reduced wastewater pollution in the Great South Bay, improving water quality and supporting local marine life.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to traditional gravity sewers, pressure sewer installation was more affordable due to reduced excavation and labor costs.
- Scalability: The system allows for future expansion, having over 400 homes upgraded in the first phase with 1,400 homes and businesses expected to be connected in the coming years.
Watch Case Study Video - Part 2
Conclusion: A Model for Sustainable Infrastructure
Patchogue’s wastewater system upgrade demonstrates the effectiveness of E/One grinder pumps and pressure sewer in addressing environmental and infrastructure challenges. The project highlights the advantages of pressure sewer systems as a competitive alternative to traditional gravity sewers.
Key Takeaways
- Environmental Benefit: Improved water quality and supported local industries.
- Economic Impact: Cost savings through a more affordable installation process.
- Scalability: A flexible system that can expand with the community’s growth.
Featured in Water Finance & Management
The editorial "The Patchogue Program: Replacing Failing Cesspools Revives a Long Island Village" by Joseph Harmes was published on November 1, 2024, in Water Finance & Management. It offers an in-depth exploration of the Patchogue, NY case study.