2026-05-Schroon_Rogers Brook Sewer__PER- Final.pdf

Preliminary Engineering Report Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements Town of Schroon, New York

Prepared for:

Town of Schroon 15 Leland Avenue PO Box 578 Schroon Lake, New York 12870

Prepared by:

Environmental Design & Research, Landscape Architecture, Engineering & Environmental Services, D.P.C.

217 Montgomery Street, Suite 1100 Syracuse, New York 13202 P: 315.471.0688 www.edrdpc.com

May 2026 EDR Project No. 20085 http://www.edrdpc.com/

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

2.0 BACKGROUND AND HISTORY

2.1 Location

2.2 Geologic Conditions

2.3 Environmental Resources and Permitting

2.4 Floodplain Considerations

2.5 Environmental Justice Areas Present

2.6 Disadvantaged Community

3.0 OWNERSHIP AND SERVICE AREA

3.1 Outside Users

3.2 Industrial Discharges or Hauled Waste

3.3 Population Trends and Growth

4.0 EXISTING FACILITIES AND PRESENT CONDITION

4.1 Projected Wastewater Flows

4.2 Design Criteria

5.0 DEFINITION OF THE PROBLEM

6.0 FINANCIAL STATUS

6.1 Sewer Fund

6.2 Sewer Fund Debt

7.0 ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

7.1 Alternative 1 – No Action

7.2 Alternative 2 – Sewer Replacement

7.2.1 Description

7.2.2 Basis of Design

7.2.3 Constructability and Permitting

7.2.4 Cost Estimate

7.3 Alternative 3 – Pipe Lining

7.3.1 Description

7.3.2 Basis of Design

7.3.3 Constructability

7.3.4 Cost Estimate

7.4 Alternative 4 – Relocate Sewer Outside Rogers Brook and Pump Stations

7.4.1 Description

7.4.2 Basis of Design

7.4.3 Constructability

7.4.4 Cost Estimate

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements ii

7.5 Alternative 5- Relocation of Rogers Brook Sewer to the South

7.5.1 Description

7.5.2 Constructability and Operations

7.5.3 Project Cost Estimate

7.6 Alternative 6 - Relocation of Rogers Brook Sewer and Grinder Pump Stations

7.6.1 Description

7.6.2 Constructability and Operations

7.6.3 Cost Estimate

7.7 Alternative 7 - Reroute Services To Route 9 (NYSDOT Bridge Replacement)

7.7.1 Description

7.7.2 Constructability and Operations

7.7.3 Cost Estimate

7.8 Operation and Maintenance

7.9 Life Cycle Cost Analysis

7.10 Land Requirements

8.0 RECOMMENDED ALTERNATIVE

8.1 Project Schedule

9.0 NEXT STEPS/FUNDING AND FINANCING

9.1 Funding Strategy

9.2 NYSEFC Clean Water State Revolving Fund

9.2.1 Financial Hardship

9.3 New York State Water Infrastructure Improvement Act Grant (WIIA)

9.4 USDA-Rural Development – Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program

9.5 Office of Community Renewal – Community Development Block Grant

9.6 Northern Border Regional Commission

9.7 Financial Projections

10.0 ADDITIONAL ITEMS

10.1 Short-Lived Assets

10.2 Energy Efficiency Best Practices

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1-1. Estimated Project Cost for Recommended Alternative - Reroute Services To Route 9 Table 3-1. Town of Schroon Population and Area Table 4-1. Projected Wastewater Flow Table 4-2. Ten States Standards Design Criteria Table 6-1. Town of Schroon Sewer Fund User Rate Table 6-2. Sewer Fund Revenue Summary for Adopted 2026 Budget

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements iii

Table 6-3. Sewer Fund Expenditures Summary for Adopted 2026 Budget Table 7-1. Alternative 2 - Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Replacement – Basis of Design Table 7-2. Alternative 2 - Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Replacement - Estimated Project Cost Table 7-3. Alternative 3 - Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Pipe Lining - Estimated Project Cost Table 7-4. Alternative 4 – Relocate the Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer and Pump Stations - Estimated

Project Cost Table 7-5. Alternative 5 – Relocation of Rogers Brook Sewer to the South - Estimated Project Cost Table 7-6. Alternative 6 – Relocation of Rogers Brook Sewer and Grinder Pump Stations - Estimated Project

Cost Table 7-7. Alternative 7 – Rerouting Services To Route 9 - Estimated Project Cost Table 7-8. Life Cycle Cost Analysis Table 9-1. Sewer User Fee Projections for Recommended Alternative

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1 Project Location Map

Figure 2 Site Location and Project Area

Figure 3 Existing Sanitary Sewer

Figure 4 Alternative 5 - Site Location and Project Area

Figure 5 Alternative 6 - Conceptual Layout

Figure 6 Alternative 7 – Conceptual layout

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix A FIRM Map

Appendix B Smart Growth Assessment Form

Appendix C Engineering Report Certification

Appendix D State Pollutant Discharge Elimination (SPDES) Permit No. NY002031

Appendix E Full Pipe Gravity Flow Capacity Calculator

Appendix F 2026 Sewer Budget

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 1

1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Town of Schroon is located in the eastern portion of the Adirondack Park. The Town owns and operates a public drinking water system, stormwater collection, wastewater collection, and treatment facilities. The wastewater system includes gravity sewers, pump stations and their respective force mains, which convey raw wastewater to a water pollution control facility (WPCF) for treatment. Treated, disinfected effluent from the WPCF discharges into Schroon Lake which is a Class AA waterbody.

Periodic improvements and maintenance projects have been performed by the Town at their WPCF and conveyance system to mitigate adverse impacts to local water quality, health and safety of residents and visitors, and protect the overall environmental assets. Most recently, the Town installed a new pump station to serve local businesses along Route 9 and upgraded the WPCF.

The Town has identified an increase in maintenance activity within the gravity sewer located adjacent to the intersection of Main Street/Route 9 and Rogers Brook. This portion of the gravity sewer was originally installed prior to 1972 and is reaching the end of its useful design life. The sanitary sewer is located within Rogers Brook and serves four users on the northern side of Rogers Brook, including the Schroon Lake Laundromat, residential apartments, and a vacant property which previously operated as a restaurant and bakery. The sanitary sewer also serves the Adirondack Inn, which is an eight-unit inn located to the south of Rogers Brook (Figure 1).

This engineering report evaluated the following alternatives to improve the sanitary sewer:

• Alternative 1 – No action

• Alternative 2 – Replacement of approximately 300-foot of existing sewer with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe

• Alternative 3 – Interior lining of the sewer

• Alternative 4 – Relocation of sewer outside Rogers Brook and pump stations

• Alternative 5 - Relocation of Rogers Brook sewer to the south

• Alternative 6 - Grinder pump stations and sewer rerouting

• Alternative 7 – Reroute services to Route 9 in conjunction with NYSDOT project to replace bridge spanning Rogers Brook

The Town needs to perform this project for the following reasons:

• Avoidance of critical failure

• Improved accessibility for maintenance

• Support operations of adjacent businesses served by the sewer

Existing Sewer in Rogers Brook

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 2

Based on the engineering evaluation and discussion with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), it is recommended that the Town proceed with Alternative 7 – Reroute Services Towards Route 9. The implementation of this alternative includes a new collection sewer and manhole north of the bridge spanning Rogers Brook and the installation of grinder pump stations to serve the Adirondack Inn and laundromat. The construction schedule, sequence, and final design will be coordinated with the planned New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) bridge replacement project, which is scheduled to be performed starting in 2027.

The estimated project cost for the recommended alternative is presented in Table 1-1. The basis of estimate assumes a start of construction in the fall of 2027.

Table 1-1. Estimated Project Cost for Recommended Alternative - Reroute Services To Route 9

Description Estimated Cost Grinder Pump, Electrical, and Forcemain (Adirondack Inn) $75,000 Grinder Pump, Electrical, and Forcemain (Laundromat) $50,000 New Collection Manholes $40,000 Rehabilitate Existing MH $15,000 8-inch Gravity Sewer Main with Cleanout $50,000 4-inch Sewer Laterals $40,000 Site Restoration $100,000 Abandon Existing Sewer $10,000

Total Estimated Construction Cost Subtotal $380,000 Construction Contingency $114,000

Total Estimated Construction Cost $494,000 Land Acquisition and Easements $50,000 Legal/Fiscal/Engineering $90,000

Total Estimated Project Cost $634,000

2.0 BACKGROUND AND HISTORY

2.1 Location

The Town of Schroon is located in the southern area of Essex County, New York adjacent to Schroon Lake (refer to Figure 1 for a project location map). The Town owns and operates a NYSDEC permitted (State Pollutant Discharge Elimination (SPDES) Permit No. NY002031, Appendix D) WPCF which serves residential and commercial businesses within the Sewer District. The WPCF and collection system infrastructure, which includes pump stations and several miles of sanitary sewer collection pipes and manholes, are owned by the Town. The Town routinely performs maintenance and capital projects to improve the WPCF and collection system. Much of the collection system was installed prior to 1972 and is reaching the end of its useful design life.

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 3

2.2 Geologic Conditions

Subsurface investigations were performed in 1972 in preparation for the construction of the WPCF and collection system improvements projects. The investigation logs, in combination with an analysis from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Web Soil Survey, provides a summary of soil conditions at the site. The soil within the Town is primarily course and course gravel silty clay in Hydraulic Soils Group B, indicating that the soil drains well. The most recent collection system project included the installation of a pump station and sanitary sewer pipes to serve local businesses located adjacent to Rogers Brook. The sanitary sewer collection system pipes were installed in hand-dug trenches to the east of Rogers Brook.

The project encountered shot rock which is consistent with the data obtained in previous soil borings.

NYSDOT provided three soil borings for the site performed in 2021 for the bridge replacement project. The soil borings indicate soils consisting of mainly sand and gravel to a depth of 16-feet. Rock was encountered at 16-feet for two of the borings and 13-feet for the other boring.

2.3 Environmental Resources and Permitting

A preliminary review of the NYSDEC Environmental Resources Mapper (ERM) was performed for the proposed project. This review was performed to identify environmentally sensitive areas that may be present near the project site.

Review of the ERM indicates the presence of NYSDEC mapped freshwater wetlands and United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) National Wetland Inventory (NWI) mapped water resources adjacent to the project site. The initial review of the NYSDEC ERM indicated that the proposed project is not within the vicinity of rare or endangered species. However, additional correspondence with the New York Natural Heritage Program (NYNHP) will be needed to verify the absence of rare and endangered species. In addition, a project information request was submitted on behalf of the Town to the New York State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) to determine the existence of any culturally sensitive sites within, or in the vicinity of, the project site. A letter of no effect was received on August 8, 2025.

It is anticipated that no permits for the proposed project are required from the NYSDEC, United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and Adirondack Park Agency (APA) prior to issuing design documents for bid. In addition, coordination will be performed with NYSDOT to align their bridge replacement project design with the sewer system improvements.

2.4 Floodplain Considerations

The proposed improvements are located within Rogers Brook. According to a study conducted by FEMA, the project is located within a special flood hazard area inundated by the 100-year flood. The FIRM map for this area designates the project area to be Zone A. This designation concludes that although the project location is within a 100-year flood boundary, no base flood elevation has been determined. The FIRM map is attached as Appendix A.

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 4

2.5 Environmental Justice Areas Present

Based on the NYSDEC information locator, the project area does not include any environmental justice areas.

2.6 Disadvantaged Community

Based on the NYSDEC information locator, the project area does not include a disadvantaged community.

3.0 OWNERSHIP AND SERVICE AREA

The Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer is owned and maintained by the Town of Schroon.

3.1 Outside Users

There are no outside users utilizing the Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer.

3.2 Industrial Discharges or Hauled Waste

The Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer does not contain waste from outside or industrial sources.

3.3 Population Trends and Growth

The 2020 Census reports a Town population of 1,880 people, with a population density of 13.2 people per square mile of land. The 2020 Census reports an increase in population of 13% from 2010. The Census only includes population data for year-round residents. The Town of Schroon is a popular summer vacation destination with summer months showing increased population counts for both the Town and Hamlet of Schroon Lake.

The Town of Schroon’s total area is 141.4 square miles, including water bodies (Paradox Lake, Schroon Lake, and Schroon River). The total land area for the Town, not including water bodies, is 132.7 square miles. The Hamlet of Schroon Lake has a total area of 3.7 square miles, with a land area of 2.9 square miles.

Table 3-1. Town of Schroon Population and Area

Area and Density(1) Value Town of Schroon

Total Population 1,880 Land Area (mi2) 132.7 Persons/mi2 14.2

Hamlet of Schroon Lake Total Population 921 Land Area (mi2) 2.9 Persons/mi2 317.6

(1) Based on 2020 data from U.S. Census Bureau.

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 5

4.0 EXISTING FACILITIES AND PRESENT CONDITION

The Town has identified an increase in maintenance activity within the gravity sewer located adjacent to the intersection of Main Street/Route 9 and Rogers Brook (Figure 2). The existing sewer is constructed of 10-inch vitrified clay pipe which was installed prior to 1972. Increased maintenance activities are attributed to scale buildup within the sewer (capacity restriction) and increased flow during peak seasons. As a result, maintenance staff frequently monitor and flush the lines (sewer jet) to maintain operation. In recent years, the frequency of maintenance/flushing has been conducted on an annual or semi-annual basis to prevent potential sewer overflows into Rogers Brook.

4.1 Projected Wastewater Flows

The sanitary sewer is located within Rogers Brook and serves four mixed-use residential businesses on the northern side of Rogers Brook, including the Schroon Lake Laundromat, residential apartments, and a vacant property which previously operated as a restaurant and bakery. The sanitary sewer also serves the Adirondack Inn, which is an eight-unit inn located to the south of Rogers Brook. Table 4-1 summarizes the anticipated wastewater flow from each type of contributor as well as a projection for a potential business who may occupy the vacant property. It is anticipated that a food service or restaurant tenant may occupy the property in the future.

Table 4-1. Projected Wastewater Flow

User Anticipated Flow - Average (gpd)(3) Adirondack Inn (8 units, 100 gpd/unit)(1) 800 Schroon Lake Laundromat (4 machines, 500 gpd/machine) 2,000 Residential Apartments (4 units, 70 gpd/unit) 280 Vacant Property (160 customers, restaurant with bar, 10 gpd/unit)(2)

1,600

Total 4,680

(1) Anticipated at full capacity.

(2) Anticipated restaurant with 40-person capacity.

(3) Flowrates calculated utilizing typical flow values from Wastewater Engineering, Treatment and Reuse (Metcalf &

Eddy).

Based on a peaking factor of 4.5, the anticipated maximum daily wastewater production is estimated to be 21,060 gpd.

Due to spatial constraints, there is little opportunity for expansion adjacent to the sewer. Therefore, the flow projection to provide service to users is restricted to the existing properties. No new service connections are proposed with the project.

4.2 Design Criteria

New York State has adopted “Recommended Standards for Wastewater Facilities, 2014 Edition” as guidance for design of wastewater facilities. These standards are commonly referred to as Ten States

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 6

Standards. Table 4-2 below outlines the parameters for the design of new sewers in accordance with Ten States Standards.

Table 4-2. Ten States Standards Design Criteria

Parameter Value Minimum Velocity (ft/s) 2 Maximum Velocity (ft/s) 15

5.0 DEFINITION OF THE PROBLEM

The Town has identified an increase in maintenance activity within the gravity sewer located adjacent to the intersection of Main Street/Route 9 and Rogers Brook. This portion of the gravity sewer was installed prior to 1972 and is reaching the end of its useful design life. The sanitary sewer is located within Rogers Brook and serves four existing system users on the northern side of Rogers Brook, including the Schroon Lake Laundromat, residential apartments, and a vacant property which previously operated as a restaurant and bakery. The sanitary sewer also serves the Adirondack Inn, which is an eight-unit inn located to the south of Rogers Brook (Figure 1).

The Town needs to perform this project for the following reasons:

• Avoidance of critical failure

• Improved accessibility for maintenance

• Support operations of adjacent businesses served by the sewer

6.0 FINANCIAL STATUS

The wastewater collection system serves 375 unique customers with the Sewer District. There are a total of 603.25 units within the District. A review of the Town’s 2026 adopted budget for the Sewer District was performed for this study.

6.1 Sewer Fund

Revenue generation is funded primarily through sewer rent. The current quarterly rates are presented in Table 6-1.

Table 6-1. Town of Schroon Sewer Fund User Rate

Description Amount Sewer Rent (flat rate per unit) (2026) $274.00/quarterly minimum Metered Charge (based on water usage) $1.15/1,000 gal

Users are invoiced quarterly. Penalties are assessed to customers that do not make payments on time.

Sewer revenue and expenditure summaries are presented in Tables 6-2 and 6-3.

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 7

Table 6-2. Sewer Fund Revenue Summary for Adopted 2026 Budget Description Total

Sewer Rent $660,066 Sewer Charges $24,575 Penalties, Sewer Rent $7,200 Sludge Revenue $10,000 Interest/Earnings $200

Total Revenue $702,041

Table 6-3. Sewer Fund Expenditures Summary for Adopted 2026 Budget

Description Total Sewer Administration $143,734 Sewage Collection System – Personal Services, Contractual Expenditures $68,873

Treatment and Disposal – Personal Services, Contractual Expenditures $204,843

Sewer Extensions $0 Capital Fund – Equipment and Outlay $0 Employee Benefits $70,976 Debt Service, Principal $203,615 Interfund Transfers $10,000

Total Expenditures $702,041

6.2 Sewer Fund Debt

The Sewer District has a debt of $2,694,185 with New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (NYSEFC) for previous sewer system improvements.

7.0 ALTERNATIVES ANALYSIS

7.1 Alternative 1 – No Action

The “no action” alternative is not feasible. If the sewer section fails, the discharge of raw sewage into the Rogers Brook waterbody would pose significant environmental, safety, and public health risks. Due to the significant risks, this alternative is not considered feasible.

7.2 Alternative 2 – Sewer Replacement

7.2.1 Description

Alternative 2 consists of replacing the 300 linear feet of sewer within Rogers Brook. The approach for this alternative is to replace the existing sewer within the same location and connect it to an existing manhole within the park. Installation of a new 10-inch high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe is recommended to utilize for the gravity sewer.

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 8

7.2.2 Basis of Design

The Basis of Design for Alternative 2 is based on a long-term approach to providing continuous wastewater service to the residences and businesses of the Town of Schroon. The Basis of Design includes the existing design flow for the Town residents and businesses as outlined in Section 3 of this report and outlined below.

Table 7-1. Alternative 2 - Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Replacement – Basis of Design

Parameter Value Minimum Velocity (ft/s) 2(1) Maximum Velocity (ft/s) 15 Minimum Slope (ft/100 ft) 0.28 Pipe Material HDPE Diameter (in.) 10

(1) Waiver of minimum velocity is required.

Based on a peaking factor of 4.5, the anticipated maximum daily flow to the sewer is 21,060 gpd which results in a velocity of 0.06 fps for the proposed 10-inch sewer. The minimum sewer diameter per Ten States Standards is 8-inches, which results in a velocity of 0.10 fps, both of which are well below 2.0 fps.

There is no nominal pipe size that will result in a velocity of 2.0 fps. As such, it is proposed that the Town will clean the new sewer to mitigate backups.

Based on the design parameters outlined above, the new sewer would have a capacity of 0.9 mgd with a velocity of 2.5-feet per second if installed at a minimum slope. This provides the sewer with ample velocity to maintain suspension of material while remaining below 10-feet per second. Design calculations are provided in Appendix E.

In addition, the sewer is anticipated to have a minimum cover of 3-feet and manholes at each direction change which aligns with Ten States Standards, Section 36.

7.2.3 Constructability and Permitting

The proposed sewer installation within Rogers Brook can be constructed within the existing sewer area. To complete construction with minimal impact to local businesses, construction is anticipated to be conducted in the fall when flows are typically lower and groundwater/brook levels are typically low. It is anticipated that a temporary diversion of the brook will be necessary to install the new pipe. A Joint Application for Permit would be necessary to submit to NYSDEC and USACE for the project which includes stream disturbance, 401 Water Quality Certification, Section 404 Clean Water Act and applicable Nationwide Permits. The design and timing of construction has been identified and discussed with various permitting agencies including the USACE at a pre-filing meeting. Additionally, the Adirondack Park Agency has also been notified of the project and did not object to the construction. Based on preliminary discussions with NYSDEC, an alternative that consists of a long-term solution which avoids instream construction and maintenance is desired.

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 9

7.2.4 Cost Estimate

The estimated project cost for the installation of a new sewer within Rogers Brook is $643,000. A breakdown of project costs is shown in Table 7-2.

Table 7-2. Alternative 2 - Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Replacement - Estimated Project Cost

Description Estimated Cost Mobilization/Demobilization $18,900 Bypass Pumping $31,500 Rogers Brook Diversion $120,800 Excavation and Backfill $90,300 HDPE Pipe $110,300 Manholes, Frames and Covers $90,300

Estimated Construction Cost Subtotal $462,000 Construction Contingency $138,600 Total Estimated Construction Cost $601,000 Legal/Fiscal/Engineering $42,000

Total Estimated Project Cost $643,000

7.3 Alternative 3 – Pipe Lining

7.3.1 Description

Alternative 3 consists of lining the 300 linear feet of existing sewer along Rogers Brook. The approach for this alternative is to install a fiberglass reinforced plastic liner on the interior of the existing pipe within the same location. Slip lining would not require excavation within Rogers Brook.

7.3.2 Basis of Design

The Basis of Design for Alternative 3 is based on a repair of the existing sewer. This alternative would include the existing pipe being cleared of debris prior to installation and a closed-circuit television (CCTV) inspection being conducted to confirm pipe size and integrity. Discussions with operations personnel indicate the likelihood of breaks within the existing sewer which may contribute to the increased maintenance frequency of the sewer.

7.3.3 Constructability

The proposed lining of the existing sewer within Rogers Brook can be constructed utilizing an existing connection on the upstream side of the laundromat. To complete construction with minimal impact to local businesses, construction is anticipated to be conducted in the fall when flows are typically lower and groundwater/brook levels are typically low. It is anticipated that the contractor will temporarily bypass wastewater flow around the pipe section to be lined. Based on preliminary discussions with NYSDEC, an alternative that consists of a long-term solution which avoids instream construction and maintenance is desired.

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 10

7.3.4 Cost Estimate

The estimated project cost for lining the sewer within Rogers Brook is $521,000. A breakdown of project costs is shown in Table 7-3.

Table 7-3. Alternative 3 - Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Pipe Lining - Estimated Project Cost

Description Estimated Cost Closed Circuit Television Inspection (CCTV) $13,000 Mobilization/Demobilization $19,000 Bypass Pumping $32,000 Rogers Brook Diversion $63,000 Pipe Lining $242,000

Estimated Construction Cost Subtotal $369,000 Construction Contingency $110,000 Total Estimated Construction Cost $479,000 Legal/Fiscal/Engineering $42,000

Total Estimated Project Cost $521,000

7.4 Alternative 4 – Relocate Sewer Outside Rogers Brook and Pump Stations

7.4.1 Description

Alternative 4 consists of relocating the existing sewer outside of Rogers Brook along with the installation of two pump stations to pump to the existing gravity sewer located east of Route 9. Two pump stations would be required because the existing gravity sewer serves parcels on both sides of Rogers Brook. Installation of a single pump station would require a gravity sewer to be installed within Rogers Brook. Additionally, the pump stations would require a permanent easement or land acquisition from private residents, as the Town does not have access to land adjacent to the businesses.

7.4.2 Basis of Design

The Basis of Design for Alternative 4 is based on installation of two pump stations and additional gravity sewer. This alternative is more costly than Alternatives 2 and 3 and would result in increased maintenance costs.

7.4.3 Constructability

The proposed removal of the sewer from Rogers Brook would be constructed with two new pump stations and gravity sewer which would convey wastewater to the existing gravity sewer east of Route 9. To complete construction with minimal impact to local businesses, construction is anticipated to be conducted in August/September when flows are typically lower and groundwater/brook levels are typically low.

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 11

7.4.4 Cost Estimate

The estimated project cost for relocating the Rogers Brook Sewer is $983,000. A breakdown of project costs is shown in Table 7-4.

Table 7-4. Alternative 4 – Relocate the Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer and Pump Stations - Estimated Project Cost

Description Estimated Cost Mobilization/Demobilization $18,000 Bypass Pumping $32,000 Rogers Brook Diversion $121,000 Excavation and Backfill $90,000 HDPE Pipe $97,000 Manholes, Frames and Covers $37,000 Pump Stations (2) and Forcemain $315,000

Estimated Construction Cost Subtotal $710,000 Construction Contingency $210,000 Total Estimated Construction Cost $920,000 Legal/Fiscal/Engineering $63,000

Total Estimated Project Cost $983,000

7.5 Alternative 5- Relocation of Rogers Brook Sewer to the South

7.5.1 Description

Alternative 5 consists of the relocation of the existing sewer outside of Rogers Brook to the south as shown in Figure 4. Installation of the sewer will require multiple stream bypasses, establishment of a permanent easement or acquisition of private property to the south of the brook, installation under the NYSDOT bridge abutment, and installation through both of the wingwalls of the brook before terminating in the park.

In order to accommodate installation on the south end of Rogers Brook, new sewers will be installed with an average depth of 12-feet. The deepest manhole will be southeast of Route 9 at a depth of 18-feet. The new sewer is anticipated to include five new manholes and three lateral connections. The gravity sewer will terminate in the park on the east end of Route 9 north of Rogers Brook.

7.5.2 Constructability and Operations

Alternative 5 would convey wastewater to a new gravity sewer located south of Rogers Brook and terminate in the existing gravity sewer east of Route 9. The proposed alternative presents various challenges with constructability and operations that must be considered:

• Environmental - The proposed installation requires sewers to be installed at a depth of 12-18 feet within 10-feet of the existing stream bank. Construction of the sewer will require excavation utilizing trench boxes/shoring to complete. As a result, there would be an increase in the physical

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 12 environmental impacts to the stream and stream bank. This would require additional approvals by the USACE.

• NYSDOT Bridge Abutment - Coordination with the NYSDOT final design plans would need to be completed in order to confirm sufficient sewer depth in relation to the abutment. Based on past projects, NYSDOT may not allow construction on or near their existing structures.

• Potential Structural Impacts - Alternative 5 proposes installation below the existing concrete retaining walls on the east end of Route 9. There is the potential of compromising the structural integrity of walls.

• Constructability - In order to complete installation as outlined by Alternative 5, two horizontal directional drill locations are anticipated. One will be on the west side of Route 9 to install pipe under the bridge abutment and the second will be on the east side of Route 9 to install pipe under the concrete abutments. Based on the depth and required angle of the directional drill, there is a lack of adequate area to install the sewer from the east side of Route 9.

• Additional Requirements - In order to install the new sewer on the south end of Rogers Brook, the Town would need to acquire an easement within the private property. This could require that the land be acquired through condemnation proceedings. The estimated cost associated with land acquisition is included with the estimate.

7.5.3 Project Cost Estimate

The estimated project cost for Alternative 5 - Relocation of Rogers Brook sewer to the South is $1,587,000.

A breakdown of project costs is shown in Table 7-5.

Table 7-5. Alternative 5 – Relocation of Rogers Brook Sewer to the South - Estimated Project Cost

Description Estimated Cost Mobilization/Demobilization $32,000 Rogers Brook Diversion (3 separate diversions) $347,000 Horizontal Directional Drill $173,000 Excavation and Backfill $173,000 HDPE Pipe $121,000 Manholes, Frames and Covers $110,00 Restoration $63,000

Estimated Construction Cost Subtotal $1,019,000 Construction Contingency $305,000 Total Estimated Construction Cost $1,324,000 Legal/Fiscal/Engineering $210,000 Land Acquisition $53,000

Total Estimated Project Cost (Rounded) $1,587,000

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 13

7.6 Alternative 6 - Relocation of Rogers Brook Sewer and Grinder Pump Stations

7.6.1 Description

Alternative 6 evaluated utilizing a series of three duplex grinder pump stations to convey sanitary sewer flow from four existing laterals. Ultimately, the combined flow would be discharged to an existing manhole located north of the existing sanitary sewer. This portion of the Town’s sewer system currently discharges to the Rogers Brook Pump Station. The implementation of this alternative would require an open cut stream crossing, stream restoration, the use or acquisition of private land to the north and south of Rogers Brook, and the installation of piping and pump stations along the brook between the stream bank and an existing row of buildings.

The first grinder pump station would be located to the south of Rogers Brook and collect flow from the Adirondack Inn. The existing sewer lateral that services the Adirondack Inn would be relocated to the new grinder pump station. This pump station’s forcemain would convey flow across the brook to the small north bank where grinder pump station 2 would be located. This station would pick up flow from an existing lateral which services an adjacent building and convey it along with the flow from the first pump station to the third grinder pump station, located further north on the bank of Rogers Brook. This third pump station would collect wastewater from two existing sewer laterals and discharge flow into an existing manhole located adjacent to Rogers Brook. A diagram of the layout of Alternative 6 can be seen in Figure 5. The flow collected and pumped by the new grinder pump stations was previously conveyed to the Dock Street Pump Station but would now be conveyed to the Rogers Brook Pump Station. Based on existing information, the Rogers Brook Pump Station has a design flow of 219 gpm and during a peak event, the station pumps at an average of 97 gpm. Alternative 6 would add an anticipated average flow of 3.25 gpm to this pump station, which indicates that there is capacity at the Rogers Brook Pump Station to convey the additional flow.

This alternative is shown in Figure 4.

7.6.2 Constructability and Operations

Similar to Alternative 5, there are several challenges associated with the constructability and future operations of Alternative 6 which must be considered:

• Environmental - The proposed installation requires sewers to be installed within 10-feet of the existing stream bank and within the stream for a crossing. Construction of the sewer would require excavation utilizing trench boxes/shoring to complete as well as bypassing a section of stream. As a result, there would be an increase to the physical environmental impacts to the stream and stream bank. This would require additional approvals by the USACE.

• Constructability - In order to complete installation as outlined by Alternative 6, an open cut creek crossing would need to be performed. This is necessary to install the grinder pump station 1 forcemain to grinder pump station 2. There is inadequate space on either side of the brook for an HDD rig to be set up and reach the necessary depths for proper forcemain installation. This would require the use of cofferdams to redirect streamflow around the work sites for the brook crossing and lateral switchovers. Once the creek is crossed, grinder pump stations 2 and 3 would need to

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 14 be installed on a limited land area between Rogers Brook and a row of buildings. According to the contractor who installed the nearby sewer to the north, much of this work may need to be hand-dug due to the lack of room for equipment. Finally, there is no electrical service on this site to run the new grinder pump stations. New electrical services off of Route 9 would also be necessary.

• Potential Structural Impacts - Alternative 6 proposes installation below the existing concrete retaining walls on the east end of Route 9 along Rogers Brook. There is the potential of compromising the structural integrity of walls.

• Additional Requirements - In order to install the new sewer and pump stations on the north and south banks of Rogers Brook, the Town would need to acquire land or obtain permanent easements. This could require that the land be acquired through condemnation proceedings. The estimated cost associated with land acquisition is included below.

• Operations and Maintenance - Under Alternative 6, grinder pump stations 2 and 3 would be installed on a thin bank between a row of multi-use buildings and Rogers Brook. This would make both of these pump stations difficult to access for maintenance purposes. Due to the lack of space, standby power for each station would have to be provided by a portable generator deployed by operators in the event of a power failure. Impeded access to the pump stations could result in backup power not being available as needed. The location of Pump Stations 2 and 3 in the creek bank poses operational and maintenance concerns due to the risk of limited ability of access, potential flooding from fluctuating water levels, and the potential for a high-water table.

7.6.3 Cost Estimate

The total estimated project cost for the implementation of Alternative 6 - Relocate Rogers Brook Sewer and grinder pump stations is $1,927,000. A breakdown of this cost is provided in Table 7-6 below.

Table 7-6. Alternative 6 – Relocation of Rogers Brook Sewer and Grinder Pump Stations - Estimated Project Cost

Description Estimated Cost Temporary Access Measures $57,000 Grinder Pump Stations $88,000 Electrical Upgrades $88,000 Portable Generator $6,000 Forcemain $44,000 Construction Labor and Equipment $777,000 Restoration $66,000 Abandon Existing Sewer $44,000

Total Estimated Construction Cost Subtotal $1,170,000 Construction Contingency $410,000 Total Estimated Construction Cost $1,580,000 Legal/Fiscal/Engineering $294,000 Land Acquisition $53,000

Total Estimated Project Cost (Rounded) $1,927,000

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 15

7.7 Alternative 7 - Reroute Services To Route 9 (NYSDOT Bridge Replacement)

7.7.1 Description

In Alternative 7, three sewer laterals from the existing buildings on the west side of Route 9 will be rerouted.

The laterals will tie into a new gravity sewer and manhole located immediately north of the bridge on Route 9 then flow to the existing manhole in the Town park to the east of Route 9. NYSDOT is expected to replace the bridge over Rogers Brook starting in 2027. This alternative would be coordinated with the NYSDOT work to minimize the construction disturbances to traffic and the building owners. The sewer from the Adirondack Inn would be pumped to the new collection manhole on the north side of the bridge by a grinder pump station. Its forcemain would be supported by and routed along the underside of the new bridge. This alternative would mitigate environmental impacts to the stream by capping and abandoning the existing sewer.

Regarding the existing infrastructure, the existing connections into the Rogers Brook Sewer would be plugged. The sewer connections will be re-piped inside of the buildings so they are no longer connected to the abandoned Rogers Brook Sewer. Based on the existing sewer location within Rogers Brook, the Town would be required to file applicable permits to perform the work to abandon the existing Rogers Brook Sewer. In order to mitigate impact to project costs and based on the existing sewer location, the approach to abandon the existing sewer is to leave it in place and plug the connections into it. By utilizing this approach, it is estimated to save costs in the range of $200,000 in work to remove the pipe, restore the stream, and the permitting required. Since the sewer can be effectively abandoned in place, it is not desired to remove the pipe. Figure 6 shows the proposed layout for Alternative 7.

7.7.2 Constructability and Operations

• Environmental - This approach is beneficial because it limits the work within the brook. Directing the sewer flows towards the street allows for the sewer within Rogers Brook to be abandoned with minimal or no disturbance to the streambed. The individual sanitary connections to the Rogers Brook sewer would be abandoned from the bank to mitigate impacts to the stream. The grinder pump forcemain from the Adirondack Inn would be installed in coordination with the NYSDOT bridge work.

• Constructability – This alternative will require coordination with each property owner to reroute the sewers to the building fronts. It would require the property owners to reconfigure their own plumbing to meet the new service laterals to the main sewer. 1061 and 1063 Route 9 are built with concrete slab floors so intercepting and rerouting the services will require structural coordination. The existing manhole is approximately 15-feet deep and is low enough to receive the new sewers.

Based on a preliminary hydraulic profile, a manhole drop may be necessary to lower the new sewer to the elevation of the existing manhole.

• Operations and Maintenance – This alternative includes two grinder pump stations that require regular maintenance. The Adirondack Inn pump station would be accessible on the side lawn of the Inn with room for a vehicle or equipment to assist in maintenance. The pump station for the laundromat is proposed to be located between Rogers Brook and the building. The Town should make provisions with each property owner to allow for access to the pump station.

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 16

7.7.3 Cost Estimate

The total estimated project cost for the implementation of Alternative 7 - Rerouting Services To Route 9 is $634,000. A breakdown of the project cost estimate is provided in Table 7-7 below.

Table 7-7. Alternative 7 – Rerouting Services To Route 9 - Estimated Project Cost

Description Estimated Cost Grinder Pump, Electrical, and Forcemain (Adirondack Inn) $75,000 Grinder Pump, Electrical, and Forcemain (Laundromat) $50,000 New Collection Manholes $40,000 Rehabilitate Existing MH $15,000 8-inch Gravity Sewer Main with Cleanout $50,000 4-inch Sewer Laterals $40,000 Site Restoration $100,000 Abandon Existing Sewer $10,000

Total Estimated Construction Cost Subtotal $380,000 Construction Contingency $114,000

Total Estimated Construction Cost $494,000 Land Acquisition and Easements $50,000 Legal/Fiscal/Engineering $90,000

Total Estimated Project Cost $634,000

7.8 Operation and Maintenance

A review of the Sewer District operation and maintenance line items was performed to determine estimated O&M costs for the evaluated alternatives. Maintenance would include periodically conducting closed-circuit television (CCTV) inspection of the pipeline. Frequency of this maintenance is different for Alternative 3.

This alternative does not include the replacement of pipe and, therefore, more frequent inspections are recommended. For Alternative 3, CCTV inspection should be conducted every 2 to 3 years, whereas the CCTV work cycle could be every 5-10 years for the other alternatives.

The Town will need to secure a permanent easement for the access, operation, and maintenance of the proposed pump station located at the Adirondack Inn behind the laundromat. The easement will provide the Town with legal access to the site, including access for personnel, and equipment as needed to service the pump station and associated force main infrastructure. The easement area will also restrict the placement of structures, trees, or other improvements that could interfere with the operation or maintenance of the facility. In addition, a temporary construction easement may be required during installation activities to allow for excavation, grading, material staging, and contractor access.

7.9 Life Cycle Cost Analysis

A life cycle cost analysis was completed for Alternatives 1 through 7 to determine over a 30-year period which alternative would be the most cost-effective. The analysis utilized each alternative’s estimated

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 17 construction cost and maintenance estimated over a 30-year period with a 4% annual inflation rate. Table 7-8 presents the life cycle analysis.

Table 7-8. Life Cycle Cost Analysis

Alternative

Total Estimated

Project Cost

Annual Maintenance

Cost Salvage Value

30-Year Present Worth(2)

1 - No Action(1) $0 $25,000 $0 $1,400,000 2 - Replace Sewer (Current Location) $643,000 $2,000 $0 $2,200,000 3 - Sewer Lining $521,000 $4,000 $0 $1,910,000 4 - Relocate Sewer $983,000 $7,000 $10,000 $3,580,000 5 - Relocate Sewer $1,587,000 $2,000 $0 $5,260,000 6 - Grinder Pumps $1,927,000 $7,000 $0 $6,340,000 7 - Reroute Services $634,000 $4,000 $0 $2,280,000

(1) The No-Action Alternative does not meet the intent of protecting critical environmental assets while providing reliable sewer service to local residents and businesses.

(2) 30-year present worth calculated at a 4% inflation rate.

7.10 Land Requirements

Land acquisition or easements would be required under Alternatives 4, 5, 6, and 7.

8.0 RECOMMENDED ALTERNATIVE

The alternatives analysis includes an evaluation for improvements to the Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer.

The proposed alternatives include no-action, replacement of the existing sewer, lining the existing sewer, relocating the existing sewer, and installing individual grinder pumps for four existing laterals.

Replacement of the existing sewer in its existing location has the advantages of providing a new closed system (butt-fused HDPE pipe) without couplings within the brook which effectively mitigates potential overflows and infiltration from leaking joints. Additionally, there is a reduced maintenance burden and it addresses accessibility issues identified by operations personnel. The disadvantages of this option are that the sewer remains located within Rogers Brook, which has a potential environmental impact in the event of catastrophic failure.

Lining of the existing sewer has the advantage of a lower capital cost; however, this alternative will require more frequent investigation (CCTV) to make a final determination of viability. Additionally, it does not provide improved access for operations personnel to perform routine maintenance.

Relocating the existing sewer has the advantages of removing the sewer from Rogers Brook but the capital cost, maintenance cost, and maintenance burden are significantly higher. An additional benefit would be that the proposed HDPE pipe will be a continuous sewer line with butt-fused joints. This effectively mitigates potential overflows from leaking joints.

Preliminary Engineering Report – Town of Schroon Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements 18

Relocating the sewer to the south of Rogers Brook has the advantage of moving the sewer outside of the brook which reduces the potential environmental impact in the event of catastrophic failure. The disadvantages of this option are a higher capital cost, increased maintenance burden on operations staff (greater manhole depth), increased risk of construction-related issues (new sewer location), additional joints/connections, and easement acquisition for the new sewers. This alternative has a high probability of causing long-term risks associated with the structural integrity of the bridge abutments and not being constructable due to the limited space for directional drilling.

Using grinder pump stations and forcemains to convey the wastewater north to the existing gravity sewer which runs to the Rogers Brook Pump Station also has the advantage of relocating the sewer outside of Rogers Brook with the exception of the grinder pump station 1 forcemain crossing. This reduces the potential environmental impact in the event of catastrophic failure. The disadvantages of this alternative include a higher capital cost, constructability challenges associated with an open cut creek crossing and installing two of the three stations in an area with limited access for equipment, and operations and maintenance concerns with limited access to two of the grinder pump stations once construction is complete. Also, the Town will need to acquire land or obtain easements from several private holders to complete the project.

Alternative 7 is advantageous because NYSDOT is going to replace the bridge over Rogers Brook and will have the road closed for an extended duration. This allows the opportunity for the Town to perform parallel work to reroute the sewer laterals to the front of the buildings and abandon the sewer within the brook. This alternative is beneficial for the Town as it mitigates the liability of continuing to operate the sewer with the creek while improving the maintenance access of the sewer by bringing the laterals towards the street.

The above alternatives were preliminarily reviewed by and discussed with the NYSDEC. The NYSDEC has indicated an alternative which avoids or mitigates construction and long-term maintenance within Rogers Brook is preferred. Therefore, the Village’s intent is to proceed with Alternative 7.

8.1 Project Schedule

The anticipated project schedule for the Rogers Brook Sanitary Sewer Improvements project is outlined below:

Submit Engineering Report to NYSDEC/NYSEFC ................................................................... May 2026 NYSDEC/NYSEFC Review of Engineering Report .................................................... May - August 2026 Address NYSDEC/NYSEFC Comments .............................................................................. August 2026 Town Selects Engineering Consultant.................................................................................. August 2026 Final Design (in parallel with NYSDOT) ........................................................... August - December 2026 NYSDEC/NYSEFC Approval ...................................