Pure Mineral Baths Return to Gideon Putnam's Roosevelt Baths and Spa

BUFFALO, N.Y. (June 09, 2008) - New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP), in partnership with Delaware North Companies, has announced the conversion of four new spa treatment rooms for guests of the Roosevelt Baths and Spa at Gideon Putnam Resort in Saratoga Spa State Park. OPRHP has converted two of the four treatment rooms to include 100 percent pure mineral bathwater. The new changes will allow spa customers to choose the heating method used to prepare their fresh spring water baths. Two rooms were completed and opened May 30. The remaining two rooms will be completed in time for the Independence Day weekend. The cost of the project is $100,000.

In addition to offering the pure mineral water that many believe has therapeutic benefits; guests now have a choice regarding how their bathwater is heated. The first option is the standard heating method, which consists of blending cool mineral water with hot fresh water to achieve the desired temperature. In a study conducted by Malcolm Pirnie for the OPRHP, the century-old environmental consulting firm reported that blending the mineral water with fresh water results in a bath with less mineral content. However, the process adds effervescence to the water.

The second and new heating method results in undiluted mineral bathwater. Heating mineral water in the traditional way ? that is, using a boiler ? has long been a challenge because the concentrated minerals corrode the tank. But a new tankless system now in place at Gideon Putnam Resort eliminates that problem. The 53-degree, pure mineral water is drawn up from the springs and heated by an internal burner immediately before it flows through the tub faucet. The result is hot, unadulterated mineral water.

"Although the differences are slight, by providing both heating methods, patrons will be able to make a choice based on whether they prefer larger quantities of minerals or more effervescence," said OPRHP Commissioner Carol Ash.

The famed baths of Saratoga are well-known. Since the mid-1800s, people have believed the spring's natural mineral water has healing powers, and is effective as a preventive health treatment. Gideon Putnam Resort has been offering mineral baths since 1935.

"We are happy to be able to work with the OPRHP to bring 100-percent mineral bathwater to our spa," said Michael Barnes, general manager for Delaware North Companies at Gideon Putnam Resort. "For years, Gideon Putnam has been sharing the region's natural resources by offering fresh mineral baths, and this new option will only further enhance our customers' experience and connection to the story of Saratoga Spa State Park."

In its bid for the management contract at Gideon Putnam Resort, Delaware North emphasized the importance of restoring and maintaining the resort's obvious historic and geographic charm, and sharing the property's many stories with guests.

"In addition to the conversion of the baths, we are adding graphic panels in the relaxation rooms that tell the story of the springs and help guests connect with the place they are visiting," said Barnes.

A plan is in place to upgrade treatment rooms and lobby décor; add design enhancements, and new coffee, tea and lunch services; and create a solitary relaxation room that will include a calming water feature. Delaware North also plans to fund a multi-million-dollar remodel of the hotel and conference center that will focus on the lobby, dining facilities and guestrooms.