#United States #New York #Legionella #Urban American #LiquiTech

Urban American Tackles Legionella with State-of-the-Art Water Treatment

Urban American, a prominent player in the multifamily housing sector, has recently achieved a significant milestone in water safety at its flagship property located at 3333 Broadway, Manhattan. Following a commissioner's order from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), the company took decisive action to address the presence of Legionella bacteria found in the building's water system. With its state-of-the-art multi-barrier water management system developed by LiquiTech, Urban American has successfully reduced Legionella levels to non-detectable levels, reinforcing its commitment to providing a safe living environment for its residents.

Addressing Public Health Concerns

Legionella, a harmful bacterium often found in water systems, can lead to Legionnaires' disease, a severe form of pneumonia. The potential risks associated with Legionella contamination necessitate prompt and effective remediation strategies. Traditional disinfection methods, typically reliant on chlorine or similar chemicals, often prove ineffective and can result in hidden costs over time due to system damage and long-term inefficiencies. Recognizing the critical importance of this issue, Urban American sought a solution that not only complied with DOHMH regulations but also assured the ongoing health and safety of its residents.

A Comprehensive Approach to Water Management

In response to the 2025 announcement of Legionella detection, Urban American collaborated with LiquiTech to implement a multi-faceted remediation strategy. At the core of this system is LiquiTech’s innovative copper-silver ionization technology. This method utilizes the antimicrobial properties of copper and silver ions, providing a continuous defense against bacterial growth in the water supply. Alongside this, a patented sediment filtration system was installed at the point of entry for city water, targeting particulate matter that could harbor Legionella, thus improving the overall water quality.

Moreover, the multi-barrier approach was complemented by ultraviolet (UV) light disinfection. This technology is effective at neutralizing bacteria associated with waterborne diseases, providing an additional layer of safety for the building’s water supply. The integration of smart water sensors further enhances the management of the water system by offering real-time monitoring of conditions, allowing for quick adjustments if necessary.

Results That Matter

After implementing the multi-barrier strategy, independent tests conducted in August 2026 revealed no detectable levels of Legionella at the monitored locations within 3333 Broadway. James Eisenberg, President of Urban American, emphasized the urgency and importance of their response: "There is no higher priority than providing a safe and healthy living environment for the residents in our buildings…We were able to resolve the problem safely and effectively, protecting the plumbing infrastructure and layering in protection against future potential exposure for the entire 1,200 unit complex."

The detailed planning and execution of this water management solution underscores Urban American’s dedication not only to compliance but to enhancing the quality of life for their residents, without resorting to harmful chemicals or disruptive maintenance practices. Tory Schira, CEO of LiquiTech, praised Urban American’s proactive measures as a model for others in the industry.

Looking Ahead: Best Practices in Water Safety

This case highlights the importance of adopting advanced, sustainable technologies in managing water quality within residential buildings. As the awareness around Legionella and other waterborne pathogens grows, building owners and managers are encouraged to consider comprehensive strategies that prioritize occupant health without compromising operational efficiency. Urban American’s success at 3333 Broadway serves as an example of how innovative solutions can lead to improved health outcomes and enhanced tenant satisfaction in multifamily housing.

About the Companies Involved

Founded in 1997, Urban American specializes in multifamily workforce housing and has invested significantly in property improvements across several states. LiquiTech, with three decades of experience, provides cutting-edge water treatment solutions that control waterborne pathogens while reducing environmental impact.

For more information on their initiative and innovative approaches, visit Urban American's website and LiquiTech's website.