Program launched to lower costs for septic repairs and sewer connections in NYC watershed

Westchester County has launched a program to help homeowners and small businesses reduce the cost of repairing failing septic systems or connecting to nearby sewer lines in communities within the New York City watershed.

Funded through the City of New York’s East of Hudson Water Quality Improvement Program, the Septic System Rehabilitation and Sewer Connection Program is designed to offset costly infrastructure projects while protecting the drinking water used by millions in Westchester County and New York City.

The Westchester County Board of Legislators approved legislation supporting the $3.5 million initiative, which will be administered by the county’s Department of Planning.

The New York City watershed spans more than 2,000 square miles across eight counties, including Westchester. Rain and snow flow through streams and rivers into reservoirs that supply drinking water to New York City and roughly 85 percent of Westchester County.

Several Westchester communities fall within the watershed, including Bedford, Cortlandt, Harrison, Lewisboro, Mount Pleasant, New Castle, North Castle, North Salem, Pound Ridge, Somers, Yorktown, and the Village and Town of Mount Kisco. The Yorktown Town Board shared the information with residents during its April 7 meeting.

According to a March 25 county news release, about 27,000 septic systems in Westchester are located within the watershed, and roughly 10 percent are estimated to need repairs or replacement.

The program will provide free design and repair of failing septic systems for some homeowners within the watershed. For properties within 100 feet of an existing sewer line, it will also cover the cost of connecting to the sewer system.

“No family should have to choose between paying their bills and knowing their water is safe. This program gives homeowners and small businesses financial relief so they can make these repairs and protect a resource we all depend on,” said County Board of Legislators Chairman and Yorktown resident Vedat Gashi said in the March 25 release. “The Board of Legislators was glad to support it, and I encourage every eligible resident to take advantage of it.”

For more information, visit the Westchester County Planning Department website. To see whether your property is within the New York City watershed, use the NYC watershed boundary map, which includes a search bar to enter your address. Applications can be submitted online here.

“Clean drinking water is something every family relies on. This program helps property owners make important repairs that protect our water supply while also easing the financial burden that often comes with fixing or replacing a septic system,” County Executive Ken Jenkins said. “In helping residents afford these upgrades, we are protecting a crucial resource for our communities today and for future generations.”