Water and Water Supply

Message from the Commissioner

In 1996, when Mayor Jennings appointed me Albany’s seventh Water Commissioner, he issued a clear and simple charge: “Protect and preserve Albany’s water. It’s the best in the nation, and I want to make sure it continues to serve our City for decades to come.”

Today, I am proud to report that the Albany water system has never been in better shape. With the Mayor’s full support, we have made tremendous strides to upgrade, modernize and maintain our aging system, which, I am confident, will continue to serve our City’s homes and businesses well into the 21st Century and beyond.

We have been able to accomplish more than anyone ever thought possible in a very short time. Since 1994, we have invested more than $37 million in capital projects to upgrade Albany’s water and sewer systems. An important part of this effort has been to upgrade and modernize our water filtration plant, to ensure that Albany water continues to meet and exceed all Federal and State water quality standards.

In 2007, and again in 2010, we were honored to be awarded First Prize as the best tasting drinking water in New York State. We are very proud of Albany drinking water, and we are happy that others throughout the State recognize our achievements. In 2011, Albany water was named one of the five best tasting drinking waters in America, during a blind taste test sponsored by the United States Conference of Mayors. This is the first time in Albany’s history that our drinking water has ever received such high honors, and we are very proud of receiving this national recognition.

Thanks to strong support from the Mayor, we have been able to purchase the most modern equipment that allows us to do our job better. The most sophisticated, high-tech leak detection equipment, modern radio-read water meters, and construction of the largest UV treatment facility in New York State are only a few of the technological advances made over the last decade.

We pride ourselves at operating the most efficient and effective water utility in order that we can better serve you–our valued customers. I am very proud of the hardworking men and women of the Water Department. This dedicated team of professionals is on the job, 24 hours a day, everyday to make sure you have safe and reliable drinking water. You can always count on Albany Water to continue to work on your behalf, just as we have been doing since 1850.

Robert Cross, Commissioner

How to connect

The property owner contracts with a licensed plumber for the construction of a new water service. There is a fee to the Albany Water Board for tapping the water main and also a fee for a water meter. These fees vary according to the size of the service. Contact customer service at 518-434-5300.

Contact Information

    10 North Enterprise Drive
    Albany, NY 12204

    Phone: (518) 434-5300
    (7:30 a.m.-12 midnight, Monday through Friday)

    Phone: (518) 462-4004
    (12 midnight-7:30 a.m., weekends & holidays)

    Fax: (518) 434-5332
    water@ci.albany.ny.us