NYC Council Pushes for 500 New Water Fountains, But DEP Cites Feasibility Concerns

The New York City Council introduced the Hydration for All Act on Monday, October 28, a proposal to install 500 new water fountains across the five boroughs by 2030. This initiative, led by Council Member Keith Powers, aims to provide accessible drinking water stations with water bottle fillers, particularly benefiting public parks and community spaces. Powers emphasized the importance of the bill in a statement, describing access to clean water as a “basic human right,” crucial for New Yorkers’ health, especially during hotter months.

The bill mandates that the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) oversees the installation and maintenance of the fountains, with each borough set to receive at least 50 units. Council members supporting the bill, such as Julie Menin, argue that adding fountains with bottle fillers will encourage New Yorkers to use reusable bottles, thereby reducing the city’s heavy reliance on single-use plastics. According to GrowNYC, the city disposes of around 1.5 million pounds of plastic bottles and jugs each week, which the new fountains could help mitigate.

However, DEP Commissioner Rohit Aggarwala cast doubt on the feasibility of the plan, citing an estimated $20 million cost and logistical challenges. Aggarwala expressed support for initiatives encouraging tap water use but argued that his agency does not currently manage water fountains. He further highlighted the potential need for additional staff and funding, cautioning that such a large-scale project could lead to a rise in water rates. 

Despite DEP’s concerns, environmental advocacy groups and community leaders see potential in the proposal. Organizations like It’s Easy Being Green, a climate action group, believe the Hydration for All Act could significantly reduce plastic waste while promoting environmental responsibility. Sharon Waskow, representing the group, called the proposal a “planet-forward solution” to reduce pollution from single-use plastics.

The bill’s supporters are now tasked with addressing DEP’s funding and maintenance concerns to move the legislation forward. While the DEP has expressed willingness to collaborate on drinking water accessibility, Aggarwala underscored his belief that other approaches might be more viable. Powers and Menin remain committed to exploring all options to make the Hydration for All Act achievable, advocating that accessible, eco-friendly water sources are essential for the city’s well-being.

As discussions progress, the Hydration for All Act stands at the intersection of public health and environmental sustainability, with city officials and residents watching closely to see if the initiative can be implemented without burdening city resources.