Community Water Study Project

Update 8/4: Drilling began the week of June 30th in the Village Center area as part of the Voluntown Water System Study is complete. Drilling took place on the Town-owned property behind the Voluntown Elementary School. As part of the drilling process, groundwater observation wells were installed. The data collected during drilling, and water levels measured during the summer from the observation wells, will inform the feasibility study that explores options for Community Water Systems to provide water resources to the Village Center and Beach Pond areas.  The study and associated drilling are funded by a grant; there is no out-of-pocket cost to Voluntown.

downtown well

 Voluntown is looking to expand its water resources.

Voluntown has received a Community Investment Fund grant in the amount of $250,000 for the Community Water Study Project. This project includes:

  • Evaluation of potential water systems
  • Preliminary designs
  • Public outreach and education on the installation of two community water systems in Town

Only two proposed areas of Town that are being looked at for potential community wells and they are the Bennett Circle area of Beach Pond and the Business District Downtown area of Town.

If the study proves successful, then the Town intends to seek grants to fully fund the construction of the wells, and resident hookup. 

a drop of water ripple in a pool of water
  1. Why is the Town doing this study?
  2. Is everyone in Town included in the study?
  3. How would having a public water system affect me?
  4. When will all of this be happening?
  5. Who will pay for all of this?
  6. Where can I get more information?
View All FAQs

QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS?

For more information or to share questions and concerns, please contact:

Brian Muschiano

First Selectman

Phone: 860-376-5880

Email: Bmuschiano@voluntown.gov

WHAT’S ON TAP FOR CHANGE

The Town and its consultant team are studying options for Community Water Systems to provide water resources to the Village Center and Beach Pond areas. This service will greatly improve water reliability and opportunities for community investment. The study features a report that will include recommendations for the new supply development, water system design, cost estimates, and potential grant funding. The Town will present the completed plan to the community for review.

Woman filling a glass of water from the sink faucet.

WHAT’S THE PROBLEM?

High water use and low precipitation and snowmelt amounts have greatly contributed to limiting water resources in private wells. In Winter 2025, the entire State of Connecticut was in a Stage 2 drought advisory, which indicates an emerging drought event that can impact water supply, natural resources, and more. In addition, the geographical, geological, and physical conditions of a well may also influence to the water levels. All these factors contribute to creating an unstable water resource.

photo of a well cap

HOW DOES IT AFFECT YOU

  • Village Center Residents & Businesses: The downtown area has limited development opportunities because of constraints on water and septic resources. Some buildings are distressed, and others have been abandoned and are unable to be rehabilitated
photo of a map of the villiage center
  • Beach Pond Homeowners: Opportunities for home renovation and expansion are limited in this neighborhood due to already crowded subsurface infrastructure. In addition, the geographical, geological and physical conditions of a well may also contribute to lower water levels, which means less water for the user.
photo of a map of Bennett Circle

Having a public water supply may increase property values, allow expansion and redevelopment, and reduce electricity use. It will also eliminate the need for private wells, which will enhance the reliability of water availability.

 

WHAT DO I DO IF MY WELL IS LOW ON WATER NOW?

Non-drinkable water for flushing and washing:

  • Available at Public Works Garage, end of Gate Street
  • Look for hose on side of the building with “Non-Potable Water” sign

 Drinkable (potable) water:

  • Available at Pachaug State Forest
  • Mt. Misery camping area
  • Look for water pump near outhouses

Find resources on well water testing, well drilling, and more: Private Wells