Legionella bacteria, which can cause Legionnaires’ disease, were detected in the water system of the 3333 Broadway apartment complex in Harlem. An email from management, confirmed by AMNY, stated that two cases of the disease were reported in the past year. Following this, health officials tested Towers A and B. Residents have been advised to avoid using showers and to use alternative methods, such as filling bathtubs slowly or using buckets, to minimize potential exposure.
Tenants have reported difficulties related to the temporary water restrictions, especially during the winter months. Matt Reid told Gothamist that bathing his young child with lukewarm water has been challenging, illustrating some of the practical issues residents are facing.
The situation at 3333 Broadway follows a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in Harlem last summer that resulted in more than 100 cases and multiple deaths. Residents have requested that all five towers be tested and treated, while officials have stated that the risk of contracting the illness from the building’s water system remains low.
Council Member Shaun Abreu addressed the situation, stating that residents of 3333 Broadway had been taking cold showers while awaiting confirmation of Legionella in the building, according to a statement reported by AMNY. Following the detection of the bacteria, building management said it would implement a treatment plan established by the city’s Department of Health, including providing residents with notice of any planned water shutdowns.
Residents of 3333 Broadway have reported uncertainty as the situation continues to develop. Stephanie Geyer, a resident, told Gothamist that the building’s large senior population has drawn attention in light of recent Legionnaires’ disease–related deaths in Harlem.
