#United States #Chattanooga #Public Health #Infrastructure Investments #Tennessee American Water

Tennessee American Water Announces Significant Infrastructure Investments

In a recent announcement, Tennessee American Water showcased its ambitious plan for 2026, revealing over $40 million dedicated to vital infrastructure upgrades. As part of the ongoing commitment to improve service reliability and public safety, this investment is scheduled to unfold during Infrastructure Week 2026, a time devoted to highlighting critical infrastructure needs across the nation.

Key Highlights of the Investment Plan

President Grant Evitts stated, "Investing in our infrastructure is essential for the communities we serve. By modernizing aging systems, we not only enhance service reliability but also safeguard public health for current and future generations." This philosophy underpins the comprehensive strategy laid out for the upcoming year. The planned upgrades encompass critical components such as water mains, storage tanks, and pump stations—all integral to maintaining service continuity, especially during peak demands and emergencies.

1. Citico Water Treatment Plant Upgrades

One of the standout projects is the Citico Water Treatment Plant in Chattanooga, where crucial electrical infrastructure will be modernized. This includes the installation of new switchgear, motor control center equipment, and quick-connect onsite generators, replacing equipment that has been in use since the 1950s. These enhancements are expected to significantly improve operational resilience, ensuring reliable service during power interruptions.

2. New Water Storage Solutions

Moreover, a new composite elevated tank with a capacity of 750,000 gallons is being constructed in Lookout Valley. This addition not only boosts water storage capacity but also supports fire safety measures and enhances overall system resiliency. In the Whitwell Service Area, upgrades to water distribution tanks are underway, with a new 420,000-gallon tank already completed and another 365,000-gallon tank set for summer completion.

3. Enhancements for Fire Safety

Additionally, ongoing improvements on Fisher Avenue and Adair Avenue are aimed at replacing old water mains. These projects will enhance fire flow capabilities and bring three new fire hydrants to the East Ridge area, directly addressing community safety needs.

Commitment to Long-Term Infrastructure Development

Tennessee American Water is focused on strengthening the areas it serves, recognizing the state's extensive infrastructure needs which amount to over $7 billion for water and wastewater improvements in the next five years. Through continued investment and modernization efforts like these, Tennessee American Water reaffirms its commitment to providing safe, reliable water services to approximately 425,000 residents in Tennessee and Northern Georgia.

As Infrastructure Week unfolds, Tennessee American Water's proactive approach exemplifies the importance of investing in essential services that impact daily life, supporting both immediate needs and long-term sustainability.

About Tennessee American Water

Tennessee American Water operates as a subsidiary of the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the U.S., American Water. With nearly 140 years of service history, they continue to prioritize public health and safety while delivering reliable water services to the community. For more details, visit Tennessee American Water's website.