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Pennsylvania American Water Completes Acquisition of Elizabeth Borough Wastewater System

On December 16, 2025, Pennsylvania American Water announced a significant development in its expansion efforts. The company has successfully acquired the Elizabeth Borough Municipal Authority (EBMA) wastewater system for a total of $28 million. This strategic acquisition marks an important step in enhancing water and wastewater services for communities within the region.

Improved Services for Local Residents

The purchased wastewater system is responsible for providing services to about 660 direct customer connections located in Elizabeth Borough, situated in Allegheny County. Additionally, it indirectly serves around 1,500 customers in the adjacent Lincoln Borough and Elizabeth and Forward townships. Pennsylvania American Water already supplies water to these customers, positioning the company to deliver a cohesive experience across both water and wastewater services.

Justin Ladner, President of Pennsylvania American Water, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition. He stated, "Pennsylvania American Water is already privileged to be the trusted water service provider to the former Elizabeth Borough Municipal Authority customers, and now we're excited to have the opportunity to welcome them as new wastewater customers as well." Ladner emphasized the company’s commitment to continuing the provision of safe, clean, and reliable service through its extensive experience in managing water and wastewater systems.

Investment in the Future

To ensure the highest standards of service, Pennsylvania American Water plans to invest over $25 million in enhancements to the EBMA wastewater system over the next five years. This investment aims to upgrade infrastructure, ensuring compliance with various regulatory, safety, and security standards. The company is dedicated to maintaining affordability for its customers while addressing the significant capital needs that many water and wastewater systems currently face across the state.

Addressing Infrastructure Challenges

The acquisition is in line with a broader trend in Pennsylvania, where many water and wastewater systems confront challenges related to aging infrastructure and stringent environmental regulations. The consolidation of services, as exemplified by this acquisition, is viewed as a viable solution to improve efficiency and effectiveness in providing essential services to communities.

EBMA had initially agreed to sell its wastewater system in January 2023, primarily due to the financial burden of infrastructure upgrades required to meet regulatory demands. The proceeds from the sale are earmarked to support other capital improvement projects within the township, allowing local leaders to focus more on community needs rather than infrastructural limitations.

Elizabeth Borough Mayor Barry Boucher commented on the sale at the time of the agreement, noting, "Throughout this competitive bid process, Pennsylvania American Water has reaffirmed its long-standing reputation as an excellent community partner who is dedicated to providing high-level service." Boucher highlighted that the transfer of the sewage system will alleviate the ongoing need for costly investments in aging infrastructure.

Regulatory Approval and Customer Benefits

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) granted approval for this acquisition on October 9, 2025, ensuring that the sale complies with existing regulations regarding rates and service provisions. Pennsylvania American Water will extend the same rates currently applicable to the existing customers of the EBMA wastewater system. Any future rate modifications will be subject to review by the Commission, thereby providing customers with additional layers of oversight and protection.

Commitment to Community Support

In addition to the infrastructure investments, Pennsylvania American Water offers various customer assistance programs, such as the H2O Help to Others Program™, which provides income-eligible customers with grants up to $500 annually for both water and wastewater services. This includes significant discounts on monthly services, forgiveness on arrears, and resources for water-saving education.

Conclusion

As the largest regulated water and wastewater utility in the United States, American Water has a commitment to facilitating sustainable and effective management of vital resources. Through this acquisition, Pennsylvania American Water is not just expanding its operational footprint but also reinforcing its dedication to enhancing service delivery and community well-being across its coverage areas. With numerous upcoming investments and a steadfast commitment to improvement, the company is set to become a pivotal player in the continuous development and provision of essential water services throughout Pennsylvania.