October 8, 2025

Completion of E Delavan Sewer Project’s First Phase Reduces Flood Risks

Buffalo, NY, October 8, 2025

The Buffalo Sewer Authority has completed the first phase of the E Delavan Sewer Project, significantly lowering flood risks on the east side of the city. With upgraded infrastructure, including modern pipes and enhanced stormwater management systems, officials estimate a 40% reduction in overflow incidents. This phase targets critical sections along East Delavan Avenue, where heavy rains have historically caused flooding. The project aims to protect homes and improve environmental safety, aligning with regional efforts to modernize Buffalo’s aging sewer network.

Buffalo, NY – October 8, 2025: Completion of E Delavan Sewer Project’s First Phase Reduces Flood Risks

BUFFALO, NY – The Buffalo Sewer Authority marked a key achievement today with the completion of the first phase of the E Delavan Sewer Project, aimed at significantly lowering flood risks on the city’s east side. This initiative introduces upgraded infrastructure, including modernized pipes and improved stormwater management systems, to better handle heavy rainfall and prevent water overflows into local areas.

Officials report that the project is expected to reduce overflow incidents by 40%, a substantial improvement that will enhance environmental safety for thousands of east side residents. By addressing longstanding issues with aging sewer systems, the upgrades aim to protect homes, streets, and waterways from flooding during storms. This phase focuses on critical sections along East Delavan Avenue, where previous heavy rains often led to disruptive flooding.

Project Details and Immediate Impacts

The first phase involved replacing outdated pipes with more durable, high-capacity materials designed to withstand increased water flow. These modernized pipes can now better accommodate stormwater during intense weather events, reducing the likelihood of backups and spills. Additionally, new stormwater management features, such as enhanced drainage channels and retention basins, will help direct excess water away from populated neighborhoods.

East side communities have long faced challenges from flooding, which can damage property, disrupt daily life, and contaminate local water sources. With this completion, residents in areas like the Fruit Belt and nearby districts can expect fewer disruptions from water-related incidents. The authority’s efforts underscore a commitment to building resilient infrastructure in vulnerable urban zones.

Implementation of this phase included coordination with local traffic management to minimize disruptions during construction. Crews worked efficiently to upgrade key segments without extending timelines, ensuring the project stayed on track. Testing of the new systems has already shown promising results in simulating rain events, confirming the infrastructure’s readiness.

Broader Context of the E Delavan Sewer Project

The E Delavan Sewer Project forms part of a larger regional strategy to modernize Buffalo’s aging sewer network, which dates back decades in many areas. Older pipes often struggled with capacity during peak usage or storms, leading to combined sewer overflows that release untreated water into the Niagara River and Lake Erie. These overflows pose risks to public health and the environment, affecting water quality for fishing, recreation, and drinking supplies downstream.

Buffalo’s east side was prioritized due to its history of frequent flooding, exacerbated by urban development and climate patterns bringing heavier rains. Previous studies identified East Delavan as a high-risk corridor, where narrow pipes and poor drainage contributed to repeated issues. The full project, spanning multiple phases, is projected to cost millions and involve ongoing collaborations with state environmental agencies.

This initiative aligns with wider efforts in New York to combat urban flooding amid changing weather conditions. By investing in such upgrades, the city not only mitigates immediate risks but also supports long-term sustainability. Future phases will extend improvements to additional streets, potentially covering more of the east side and integrating smart monitoring technology to detect issues early.

Environmental and Community Benefits

Beyond flood prevention, the project contributes to cleaner waterways. Reduced overflows mean less pollution entering local ecosystems, benefiting wildlife and preserving the natural beauty of Buffalo’s waterfront areas. Residents will notice fewer street closures and safer conditions during storm seasons, allowing for smoother commutes and outdoor activities.

The 40% estimated drop in overflow incidents is based on engineering models and historical data from similar upgrades elsewhere in the region. This projection highlights the project’s potential to transform how the east side manages water challenges. Community input during planning helped shape the design, ensuring it meets the specific needs of those most affected.

As Buffalo continues to grow, projects like this one demonstrate proactive steps toward resilience. The completion of the first phase sets a foundation for further advancements, promising a safer and more reliable infrastructure for generations to come.

FAQ

What is the E Delavan Sewer Project?

The E Delavan Sewer Project is an initiative by the Buffalo Sewer Authority to upgrade sewer infrastructure along East Delavan Avenue, focusing on reducing flood risks in Buffalo’s east side.

What upgrades were included in the first phase?

Upgrades in the first phase include modernized pipes and stormwater management systems to better handle heavy rainfall and prevent overflows.

How much will overflow incidents decrease?

Officials estimate a 40% drop in overflow incidents due to the project, enhancing environmental safety for residents.

Which areas benefit from this project?

The project primarily benefits east side residents in Buffalo, particularly in areas prone to flooding like the Fruit Belt and nearby districts.

Why was the east side prioritized?

The east side was prioritized due to its history of frequent flooding from aging pipes and poor drainage, worsened by urban development and heavier rains.

Key Features of the E Delavan Sewer Project First Phase

Feature	Description	Impact
Modernized Pipes	Replacement of outdated pipes with high-capacity, durable materials	Handles increased water flow to prevent backups during storms
Stormwater Management Systems	Enhanced drainage channels and retention basins	Directs excess water away from neighborhoods, reducing flood risks
Flood Risk Reduction	Targeted upgrades along East Delavan Avenue	Lowers risks for east side communities like the Fruit Belt
Overflow Incident Decrease	Engineering-based projection	Estimated 40% drop, improving environmental safety