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Jacobs' New Role in Jackson's Water Infrastructure

In a major development for the City of Jackson, Mississippi, Jacobs Engineering Group has been awarded a substantial nine-year contract by JXN Water. This agreement paves the way for Jacobs to enhance the city’s wastewater management by taking on the operation and maintenance of its wastewater infrastructure. The firm aims to modernize systems and bolster operational resilience, addressing the long-standing challenges faced by Jackson's aging water services.

A Stronger Commitment to Public Health

The new contract, which is an amendment to Jacobs' existing agreement with the city, significantly expands the company's responsibilities. Jacobs will oversee the operation of three wastewater treatment plants and manage 99 pump stations. This decision was influenced by Jacobs' proven history of improving Jackson's water infrastructure, where the firm has consistently delivered effective and integrated service solutions.

Greg Fischer, Executive Vice President at Jacobs, emphasized the importance of this agreement, noting that it aligns with their commitment to stabilizing and enhancing Jackson's water systems, which have struggled due to aging facilities and limited investment. With personnel already embedded in Jackson’s operations, Jacobs is ideally situated to provide cost-effective solutions and advanced engineering support that will facilitate much-needed long-term infrastructure improvements.

Immediate Focus: System Reliability

Following the contract award, Jacobs' immediate plan includes completing a thorough condition assessment of the existing wastewater facilities. They will also implement a strategic improvement plan aimed at restoring system reliability and preventing potential bypasses. In addition, Jacobs has pledged to invest in workforce development, facilitating the transition of current staff and supporting certification programs. This initiative is critical in addressing the shortage of qualified operators while ensuring consistent service quality for local residents.

Ted Henifin, the Interim Third-Party Manager at JXN Water, praised Jacobs for its unwavering support during the ongoing water crisis, stating, “Only Jacobs was willing to answer our calls for assistance.” His comments reflect confidence in Jacobs' dedication to collaborating with local stakeholders to guarantee that all Jacksonians have access to safe drinking water.

Recognition and Future Prospects

Jacobs' work with JXN Water, particularly in the face of adversity, has garnered international attention, earning JXN Water a nomination for the Public Water Agency of the Year at the prestigious 2025 Global Water Awards. Beyond Jackson, the company has also expanded its operations across the South Central and Southeastern United States, reinforcing its presence with contracts in various communities, including San Marcos in Texas, and several towns in Georgia and Florida.

Jacobs at a Glance

As a leading engineering and construction firm, Jacobs challenges the present to create solutions for the complex demands of tomorrow. With an impressive annual revenue of approximately $12 billion and a workforce of nearly 45,000, the company provides a comprehensive range of services across multiple sectors, including water, energy, and environmental solutions. Their dedication to innovative practices promotes a more connected and sustainable world. For further information about Jacobs and their services, visit jacobs.com and connect with them on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, and Facebook.

In summary, Jacobs' new wastewater operations contract in Jackson marks a pivotal step in revitalizing the city’s infrastructure and demonstrates a commitment to ensuring public health and environmental stewardship. By leveraging their expertise and resources, Jacobs aims to transform Jackson's water management system for a sustainable future.