The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) on Monday announced the start of a three-year program to upgrade more than 600,000 Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) devices across the city.
The initiative, beginning in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, aims to enhance water monitoring, leak detection and customer service for New Yorkers, according to a press release.
AMR devices, the small gray boxes attached to the exterior of properties, transmit water consumption data from meters to DEP. The upgraded devices will ensure real-time monitoring, improved leak detection and more accurate water use readings.
The upgrades are mandatory for all property owners and will be performed at no cost. The department said the technicians conducting the repairs will not require appointments with property owners as most AMR devices are located on the exterior of properties.
However, in cases where technicians cannot access the device, they may return during evenings or weekends, and if the AMR device is inside the property, DEP will send a letter requesting an appointment for the upgrade.
The department added that contractors will wear uniforms with DEP logos, carry proper identification and travel in clearly marked DEP vehicles. They may move garbage cans or open unlocked gates to access devices for 15 to 30 minutes, after which workers will clean the area and remove all debris.
The department calls on property owners to clear the area around the AMR device and trim bushes for easy access, bring pets indoors while technicians are working and pay attention to notifications about installation timelines to ensure seamless installation.
