After post-storm flooding, Albany estimates billions to fix sewer system

Homeowners all over the city found their basements filled with raw sewage and flood waters after the August 7th torrential downpower -- and now taxpayers could be looking at a budget-busting price tag to cover the costs of fixing Albany's deficient underground storm sewers.

The storm dumped three inches of rain in thirty minutes, and low-lying streets around the city became lakes, trapping vehicles and motorists alike.

But in order to replace the existing storm and sewer pipes with those that can handle huge downpours, billions of dollars would need to be budgeted for the project, according to Albany Water Commissioner Robert Cross.

Cross went on to say taxpayers could not absorb that kind of money, and their water bills would quadruple or more if the city were to go that route.  

In the meantime, Cross says homeowners have until November 15^th to apply for a city grant of up to $1,500 to cover most of the cost of installing a back water valve that Cross said would prevent the flooding in most cases.

The city is also looking into underground water basins as a short-term solution.

Alice Roberson was one of those home residents whose basement and backyard on Hansen Avenue was filled with nine inches of flood water and sewage after that storm.

She said she's already paid $20,000 for a sump pump but is still being flooded. And according to Roberson, it's the city's responsibility to fix the problem.