#United States #New Jersey #Camden #Infrastructure #American Water

New Jersey American Water's Significant Investment for 2025

New Jersey American Water has unveiled ambitious plans for 2025 with an investment exceeding $781 million aimed at enhancing its extensive water and wastewater infrastructure across the state. This substantial financial commitment marks an impressive rise from the $520 million invested in 2024, showcasing the company’s dedication to providing safe and reliable water services to the more than 190 communities it serves.

Mark McDonough, the president of New Jersey American Water, emphasized the importance of this investment, stating, "Our $781 million investment isn’t just a number; it’s about staying ahead of aging infrastructure, so our customers don’t have to think twice about the water coming from their tap." The company aims to ensure that the cost of water remains affordable, targeting approximately a penny per gallon while keeping household bills well under one percent of the median income.

The investment is expected to have a dual benefit: not only will it enhance water service and reliability for customers, but it will also create over 12,490 jobs across the state. The continuous annual investments in infrastructure will support critical upgrades throughout the company's water and wastewater systems. These improvements include treatment plants, tanks, pump stations, pipelines, and metering equipment.

Since 2010, New Jersey American Water has significantly invested over $6 billion into upgrading and modernizing its aging infrastructure. This ongoing effort has enabled the replacement or installation of more than 1,094 miles of water mains, transforming the landscape of water management in the state. For 2025, some notable highlights of the improvement plans include:

• - Water Main Upgrades: A total of 42.42 miles of water main will either be installed, replaced, or rehabilitated. This ambitious goal is backed by $241 million dedicated to enhancing water mains.

• - Service Line Replacements: The company will replace 16,035 service lines, focusing on improving reliability and minimizing leaks, supported by a $127 million investment.

• - Hydrants and Valves: The replacement of 562 fire hydrants and 2,217 valves to bolster system performance is in line with an investment of $20 million.

• - Water Storage Enhancements: Three water storage tanks will undergo rehabilitation, alongside 35 inspections, facilitated by a $7.8 million investment for tank upgrades.

Water Treatment and Production System Improvements

In addition to the infrastructural enhancements, the company is allocating $78.6 million for improvements at its water treatment facilities. These upgrades will include:

• - Installation of PFAS-removal equipment, addressing emerging contaminants in the water supply.
• - Installation of new membrane systems to enhance water purification processes.
• - Modification of chemical systems at the Salem Water Treatment Plant, refining treatment efficiency.
• - Conversion of the Jumping Brook Water Treatment Plant’s energy source from gas to more sustainable options.

Wastewater Treatment Enhancements

Furthermore, New Jersey American Water plans to direct over $70 million towards improvements in its wastewater treatment infrastructure. Key initiatives include:

• - Addressing inflow and infiltration issues for around 70,000 feet of pipe in Long Hill.
• - Rehabilitation of 15,000 feet of sanitary sewer mains in Lakewood Township, alongside 360 sewer laterals and the installation of 4,240 feet of new 12-inch and 15-inch mains.

Overall, New Jersey American Water is making responsible and long-term investments to modernize aging systems, boost reliability, and protect water quality across its service territories. These proactive upgrades are essential for meeting evolving regulations and accommodating the needs of a growing customer base while ensuring that costs remain accessible for families and businesses in New Jersey.

About American Water

American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the leading regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States, with a rich history dating back to 1886. They serve approximately 14 million people across 14 states and provide essential drinking water and wastewater services to military installations as well. 7,000 skilled professionals work tirelessly to deliver excellent outcomes for customers and stakeholders.

To learn more about American Water, visit www.amwater.com and follow them on social media platforms.

About New Jersey American Water

As a subsidiary of American Water, New Jersey American Water stands as the largest regulated water utility in the state, serving around 2.9 million residents. For more details, visit www.newjerseyamwater.com and connect with them on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.