The Jersey City Water Works began construction on the Booton
Reservoir in 1895. At the time of its completion in 1904, the
Boonton Reservoir Dam was reported to be the second largest dam in
the world.
In 1908, the water from thte reservoir became the first U.S.
public water supply to be chlorinated The inexpensive treatment
method produced water that was 20 times purer than filtered water.
Contested in the courts, a Jersey City's right to chlorinate its
water supply was upheld as a safeguard to public health. This
action paved the way for chlorination throughout America's drinking
water supplies.
Today, The water used by the inhabitants of Jersey City and its
customers comes from this reservoir. The watershed has an area of
121 1/2 square miles. Below the city of Boonton is the great clam
and the large reservoir, which is, in fact, a large lake containing
7,300,000,000 gallons of water, which means about 143 days' supply
for Jersey City. This reservoir is connected with Jersey City by
means of tunnels, conduits and steel pipe, stretching for about 21
miles through the country. The tunnels which travel through two
mountains, the Watchung and Horseneck Mountain, as well as the
conduits, have a diameter of 8 feet 2 inches.
As you approach the cache you will be walking on what was old
Route 202. Take a minute and enjoy the view. The old road has
recently been converted into a pedestrian walkway. Home of joggers,
dog walkers, and people who simply want to enjoy the tranquil
view.