The urban stream syndrome is defined as the specific effects that cities have on watersheds and has been identified in urban regions worldwide. Symptoms include, a higher risk of flooding, increased erosion, reduced biodiversity, and elevated concentrations of nutrients and contaminants. Diagnosing and monitoring the urban stream syndrome is of utmost importance as streams are a source of drinking water, provide habitat for unique species, and contribute to the economy. The objective of this study is to determine the extent of the urban stream syndrome in and around the Schenectady area. More specifically, this study focuses on two separate aspects: 1) the influx of road salt, and 2) the influx of organic waste. In addition, data were compared with previous data of the same streams to determine changes over time. A total of 28 urban and 17 rural sites from 11 streams were visited during the summer of 2018. At each site, conductivity, DO%, pH and temperature were measured using a YSI water quality meter. When present, different algae were collected, cleaned, dried and analyzed for nitrogen isotopes. Water samples from each site were analyzed for nitrite, nitrate, and chlorine ion concentrations.This study found that urban streams had a higher influx of organic waste as well as elevated conductivity and chloride ion concentrations. This confirms the conclusions of a 2016 study on the same streams. However, compared to 2016, the influx of organic waste seems to be higher in 2018 as indicated by the higher δ15N values of the algae. This study is of significance because it can be used as a baseline to determine the efficiency of upgrades to waste water treatment plants, septic tanks as well as upgrades to storm water systems in the area of study.