Threatened by legal action and fines, NYSDOT initiated a project to replace its failed septic system at the Gateway Rest Area. The Department requested that Doak Engineering Design, PC provide a low maintenance, environmentally sensitive, and cost effective design solution. Mr. Doak provided the preliminary engineering and investigation as well as the final construction documents.
After a number of alternative evaluations, the Department selected an environmentally friendly septic composting and grey-water system with a 95% reduction in water usage.
Since the existing building is on a frost wall foundation, a 2,800 sf addition with full basement was required on the back of the existing building to house the composting units. We relocated the bathrooms in the addition, and utilized the original bathroom space to expand the Sothern Tier Welcome Center.
During construction, the Governor’s Office initiated an upgrade to the Gateway Rest Areas throughout the State including this facility. A number of additional improvements have since been incorporated into the original design.
The outstanding environmental features of this project are: