New York State Reaches 'Significant Milestone' in Hudson River Wedgewire Project

The project aims to minimize the Albany Riverfront Pump Station's impact on aquatic life in the Hudson River.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 4:07pm

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New York State officials have announced the final phase of construction for a new wedgewire screening system at the Riverfront Pump Station in Albany. The project is expected to "substantially minimize" the pump station's impact on aquatic life in the Hudson River.

Why it matters

The Hudson River is a vital natural resource for New York, and protecting its aquatic ecosystems is crucial. This project represents an important step in reducing the environmental impact of the Albany Riverfront Pump Station and preserving the river's biodiversity.

The details

The wedgewire screening system is designed to filter out small aquatic organisms, such as fish and larvae, that would otherwise be drawn into the pump station's intake. This will help minimize the station's impact on the local ecosystem. The remaining construction work is expected to be completed by winter 2023.

  • The final phase of construction for the wedgewire screening system was just announced by state officials.
  • The remaining construction work is expected to be completed by winter 2023.

The players

Jeanette Moy

Commissioner of the New York State Office of General Services.

Basil Seggos

Commissioner of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Governor Kathy Hochul

The current Governor of New York, under whose leadership the state has focused on increasing sustainability and resiliency in government operations.

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What they’re saying

“The installation of the wedgewire screening system in the Hudson River is one big project that will save millions of tiny aquatic lives.”

— Jeanette Moy, Commissioner, New York State Office of General Services

What’s next

The remaining construction work at the site is expected to be completed by winter 2023, according to state officials.

The takeaway

This project represents a significant step in New York's efforts to protect the Hudson River's aquatic ecosystems and reduce the environmental impact of critical infrastructure like the Albany Riverfront Pump Station. It demonstrates the state's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.