Ritchie Meets WITH Dot on Route 12 'Salt Water'

Invites Homeowners, Businesses to Contact Office with Concerns

State Senator Patty Ritchie today is urging residents in the Route 12 corridor in the Towns of Alexandria and Orleans to contact her office with information about possible salt contamination of their private drinking water wells.

Senator Ritchie said she has arranged to forward the information from homeowners to New York State Department of Transportation officials who have agreed to investigate the possible contamination, which local officials believe was caused by a DOT storage facility near I-81.

Senator Ritchie won that commitment during a meeting she held with DOT officials today.

“Ever since this issue was brought to my attention by County Legislator Phil Reed, I have been working with community leaders and representatives of the DOT to find a solution that protects the drinking water of Orleans and Alexandria residents, and ensures that those responsible are held accountable for repairing the damage,” Senator Ritchie said.

“I am grateful to DOT Commissioner Joan McDonald, who is taking the issue seriously, and has been have been more than willing to listen to our region’s concerns,” Senator Ritchie said.

Are residents have complained for years about salt that appears to be seeping into their wells, and local officials fear that water quality issues could hamper efforts to attract business, and create jobs in the community.

Residents who believe they may have been impacted by DOT practices can forward their information to Senator Ritchie’s office at 782-3418, or by mail, to 317 Washington St., Watertown, NY 13601.