Fargo Road Water Tank Rehabilitation

Fargo Road Water Tank Rehabilitation: Investing in Waterford’s
Future
The Fargo Road Water Tank, a critical piece of Waterford’s water
infrastructure, holds 750,000 gallons and stands 140 feet tall. Since
it was put into service in 1986, this elevated spheroid tank has
served as a vital resource for the high-service area of town, which
includes Hartford Turnpike, Dayton Road, Vauxhall Street,
Briarwood Drive, and other surrounding neighborhoods.
The recent $1.3 million rehabilitation project, completed by USG
Water in 2023, was essential to preserve the longevity of this asset,
which had far exceeded its useful life expectancy. Prior to the
project, the tank still had its original coat of paint from 1986—over
a decade beyond its expected life span. Neglecting this maintenance
would have resulted in structural failure, leading to a costly tank
replacement, which could have been a multimillion-dollar expense
for taxpayers.
Instead, through proactive planning with the Utility Commission
and smart use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, the Town
of Waterford was able to completely refurbish the tank—at no
additional cost to residents. The project involved sandblasting and
recoating both the interior and exterior surfaces of the tank to meet
CT Department of Health standards, along with replacing the fill
pipe to address a leak that emerged during the renovation. These
measures will extend the tank's life by at least another 30 years.
This investment not only protects Waterford’s infrastructure but
also saves taxpayers from future emergency capital costs. Routine
maintenance like this costs significantly less than emergency
repairs, which can be up to three times more expensive. By acting
now, the Town has avoided a situation that could have led to higher
taxes or fees for residents.
In short, this rehabilitation project ensures reliable water service for

years to come while safeguarding the Town’s financial stability. It’s
a smart investment in Waterford’s future, made possible without
any direct impact on taxpayers, thanks to ARPA funding.