Jacobs Secures Long-Term Water System Management Contract in Jackson, Mississippi

Jacobs Chosen for Water Treatment Operations in Jackson, Mississippi

In a significant move towards improving the quality of water services in Jackson, Mississippi, Jacobs has been selected by JXN Water to operate and maintain the city's crucial water treatment system. This new agreement is set to last for ten years, marking a pivotal step in ensuring reliable access to clean drinking water for approximately 180,000 residents in the area.

The decision follows a short-term operations and maintenance contract that Jacobs held since early 2023, which played a crucial role in bolstering the reliability of drinking water for residents. According to Greg Fischer, Jacobs' Executive Vice President of Design-Build and Operations Management, this partnership is more than just a business arrangement; it's a commitment towards facilitating better lives for the citizens of Jackson through enhanced water services.

Under this comprehensive contract, Jacobs is tasked with overseeing the operation and management of both the O.B. Curtis and J.H. Fewell water treatment facilities, alongside the groundwater well systems, booster stations, and storage tanks. Fischer emphasized the long-standing challenges faced by Jackson residents concerning water quality, highlighting Jacobs’ responsibility to ensure that every person has access to clean water.

Since Jacobs took charge in 2023, several significant improvements have already been made to the system, including repairs and upgrades aimed at stabilizing and enhancing the overall water service. These upgrades not only bolster the existing infrastructure but also serve to lay groundwork for future capital improvements.

JXN Water's Interim Third-Party Manager, Ted Henifin, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, "Jacobs has shown a true commitment to our community, helping address Jackson's water problems when many others hesitated. Their experience and passion are vital to moving our water projects forward effectively."

The contract promises a proactive stance on maintaining the water treatment system, ensuring it meets all regulatory standards while continuously improving service delivery. Jacobs’ role extends beyond mere management; they will also offer support in the planning, design, and execution of future capital projects aimed at further stabilizing the water system.

With nearly 45,000 employees and a revenue of approximately $12 billion, Jacobs stands as a global leader in providing essential services across various sectors. The company has emphasized its mission to create a more interconnected and sustainable world through its initiatives, highlighting the importance of trustworthy water infrastructure in achieving that vision.

As Jacobs embarks on this decade-long partnership with JXN Water, the prospect of a reliable water service in Jackson is closer to becoming reality, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for all residents. This collaborative effort not only addresses immediate water quality concerns but also positions Jackson for a more sustainable future in terms of water management and service delivery.

Jacobs is not merely acting as a contractor—they are engaging with the community, taking into account the unique challenges that Jackson has faced over the years. Their commitment to excellence in the management of the water treatment system is a step towards revitalizing trust and ensuring that residents can have confidence in their water supply. By innovating and improving ongoing operations, Jacobs hopes to transform Jackson's water challenges and ensure a better quality of life for its residents.