Cobbs Hill Reservoir Being Drained

The water bureau started draining the 144 million gallon Cobbs Hill Reservoir in preparations of repairing the structure. The reservoir was built in 1909.

Water service to Rochester water customers will not be affected by the construction. Work includes concrete and crack repairs and fountain maintenance. Crews are also working on the Upper Gate House portico floor, pipe gallery, screening wells and walls. The project costs $3 million.

This is one of the city's three reservoirs that draw water from Canadice and Hemlock Lakes.

"Water flows through here everyday into the city," said Bob Morrison, Director of Bureau of Water City in Rochester. "It's one the most important things any water bureau can do and that is preventative maintenance to its system to keep reservoirs, piping and tanks running. That is the most important thing we do in our capital programs."

Work on the reservoir will continue through the next several months. The reservoir is expected to be refilled in December. Cobbs Hill Park will remain open during renovations.

Rochester was voted "Best Tasting Drinking Water in NYS" at the Water Works Annual Convention earlier this month.

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Cobbs Hill Reservoir Being Drained