drinking water

The New York state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced several new actions to address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) “forever chemicals” Thursday. These pollutants do not break down in the environment and are found in air, soil and water.

It’s been over three years since water fountains in some Ithaca area schools could offer students a drink. In 2015, water systems in all 12 Ithaca City Schools were shut off after tests showed elevated lead levels. However, within two weeks, the water will be turned on again at some elementary schools.

"There’s been a long time passing without much information about what the remediation was," said Alan Karasin, treasurer of the PTA. "We would get periodic reports that things were being replaced but we didn’t exactly know what or when."

ITHACA, NY (WSKG) - Leaders in Ithaca City Schools say the water should be turned on by the end of the year.