Van Dyke Water Tower Scheduled For Demolition

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ (April 13, 2025) - The dismantling of the 750,000-gallon water tower on Van Dyke Avenue, a landmark since its construction in 1949, is scheduled to begin April 14 and continue throughout the week. The demolition will make way for a modern replacement, doubling the current water storage capacity and significantly enhancing New Brunswick's infrastructure.

The distinctive, eight-legged blue tower, proudly displaying "New Brunswick" and featuring its unique, winding staircase, has long been a part of the cityscape.

Workers will use torches to carefully cut and lower sections of the tower onto flatbed trucks for removal during the week. Following the removal of the tower, demolition of the foundation will take place.

"No one should notice any difference with their water service while this changeover takes place," noted Water Utility Director Alexei "Lex" Walus. The City has more than 2.9 million gallons of water storage reserves without the Van Dyke Tower, he added.

The new 1.5-million-gallon ellipsoid elevated water tank, similar to the large water tank in neighboring Milltown, is expected to be operational by late 2026. The new tank will have the "New Brunswick, Heart of New Jersey" logo emblazoned on the tower.