Sewage concerns persist at Hunts Woods Park in Mount Vernon
Hunts Woods Park, known for its trails and streams, has been at the center of an ongoing sewage contamination dispute for years. Advocates say the issue may be tied to infrastructure outside Mount Vernon.
A long-running environmental issue at Hunts Woods Park on the Mount Vernon–Bronxville border is showing no signs of improvement, according to new independent testing.
Residents say the problem is immediately noticeable.
“Does that look like clean water to you?” asked Mount Vernon resident Gabriel Thompson as she pointed News 12 to the murky water flowing through the park.
Hunts Woods Park, known for its trails and streams, has been at the center of an ongoing sewage contamination dispute for years. Advocates say the issue may be tied to infrastructure outside Mount Vernon.
Alison Rugila, of the nonprofit Save the Sound, says recent testing shows elevated bacteria levels, specifically Enterococcus, in the thousands. The latest sample, taken April 7, measured 2,725 — far above what is considered safe. Rugila says a healthy level would be 100 or less.
The discharge is coming from what is known as Outfall 61, a stormwater pipe that should only carry rainwater or groundwater.
In 2024, Mount Vernon issued a cease-and-desist order to Bronxville, alleging that drainage projects there are contributing to the contamination.
Residents say they are frustrated by the lack of resolution.
“If you walk through the park, you can see that it’s not taken care of at all,” said Mount Vernon resident Maria Wager.
News 12 has reached out to Bronxville Supervisor Jim Palmer for comment and is waiting to hear back.
