A Look at the Bay Park Conveyance Project
At the mark of the 51st celebration of Earth Day, The Hose Company was proud to highlight a groundbreaking project that symbolizes New York’s commitment to environmental recovery: the $513 million Bay Park Conveyance Project in Long Island, NY. This initiative, part of the Western Bay Resiliency Initiative, is a vital step towards revitalizing the Western Bays, an area suffering from decades of environmental degradation caused by high nitrogen levels and poor water quality.
As the manufacturer of Hydrauli-Flex Hoses used to power ICE equipment, we understand the importance of sustainable, innovative solutions that reduce environmental impact. This project exemplifies such a solution, demonstrating how cutting-edge technology and a focus on environmental restoration can work together to restore ecosystems and improve quality of life in surrounding communities.
A Bold Step for Long Island's Bays
The Bay Park Conveyance Project addresses an urgent need to repair a 7.3-mile section of aqueduct and install a new 3.6-mile force main pipe running 20-60 feet underground. This new infrastructure will carry treated water from the South Shore Water Reclamation Facility to the Cedar Creek Water Pollution Control Plant (WPCP), replacing outdated infrastructure that has long contributed to the environmental deterioration of the Western Bays.
For decades, treated water was discharged into the Reynolds channels, introducing high nitrogen levels that created a range of environmental issues. Nitrogen fuels algae blooms that block sunlight and deplete oxygen levels, harming aquatic life. This has resulted in the destruction of the Bays’ water quality and the decline of important marine species, like oysters, which play a critical role in filtering water. Oysters can filter up to 72 gallons of water a day, and their loss has exacerbated the ecological problems in the area. The redirection of treated water to the Cedar Creek WPCP will significantly reduce nitrogen levels, restoring the Bays’ natural filtration systems and rejuvenating the local ecosystem.
Innovation in Action: The Role of ICE® Equipment
A key component of the Bay Park Conveyance Project was the use of the ICE® Model 33 Vibratory Driver/Extractor, which was instrumental in the installation of 40-foot-long PZ-26 sheets into the ground. The decision to use this equipment highlights a progressive approach to environmental preservation. The ICE® Model 33 is equipped with a wireless remote that allows operators in the crane to work at a safe distance from the shoreline, minimizing disturbances to the delicate environment while maintaining maximum control over the 140-ton driving force.
This “hands-off” approach ensures that the installation process doesn’t cause unnecessary damage to the surrounding environment. By using the ICE® equipment, Western Bay Constructors were able to install the new aqueduct system without compromising the health of the Bays.
In addition, the innovative decision to "slip line" the new aqueduct pipe within the existing 1906 infrastructure reduces the need for extensive excavation and disruption of the landscape, further minimizing the environmental impact. This method not only conserves resources but also ensures the safe and efficient use of existing infrastructure.
Restoring the Ecosystem and Community Benefits
The positive effects of this project on the Western Bays will be felt immediately. As nitrogen levels in the water decrease, natural resources such as fish, shellfish, and marshlands will begin to thrive once again. The restoration of these ecosystems will aid in storm protection, improve the resilience of surrounding communities to climate change, and boost local property values.
For The Hose Company, this project resonates deeply with our values of innovation, sustainability, and environmental responsibility. Through the use of Hydrauli-Flex hoses, which power equipment like the ICE® Model 33 Vibratory Driver/Extractor, we support projects that make a meaningful impact on the environment. The Bay Park Conveyance Project is a shining example of how modern engineering and technology can work together to protect and restore natural ecosystems.
Looking to the Future
As we reflect back on the 51st Earth Day, we are reminded of the importance of sustainable practices in every facet of our industry. The Bay Park Conveyance Project serves as a powerful example of how environmental consciousness, paired with cutting-edge technology, can make a real difference. At The Hose Company, we are proud to be a part of this movement and look forward to continuing to support initiatives that foster a healthier planet for future generations.
By celebrating this Earth Day, we not only honor the past achievements but also look toward the future, where projects like the Bay Park Conveyance Project serve as blueprints for future environmental restoration efforts across the globe. Together, we can make every day Earth Day.
