Pennsylvania American Water, the largest regulated water utility in the state, said it invested more than $722 million last year to improve water and wastewater systems.
The company said it invested approximately $638 million to support water system improvements and $84 million for wastewater systems to better its service to customers in 38 counties and 436 counties across Pennsylvania.
“Providing safe, clean and reliable water and wastewater service means investing in our systems every year,” Pennsylvania American Water President Justin Ladner said. “These upgrades help reduce service interruptions, modernize aging pipes and facilities and help ensure our systems remain dependable for the families and businesses we serve – and for decades to come.”
In addition to helping the company provide safe, clean, reliable service, the investment generated more than 7,220 jobs throughout the state’s economy.
Pennsylvania American Water said the investment covered upgrades and improvements to its water and wastewater infrastructure, including treatment plants, tanks, pump stations, pipes, fire hydrants and metering equipment, including: $267.9 million to install nearly 93 miles of water mains, $26.6 million to install more than 16 miles of wastewater mains, and $18.5 million to rehabilitate seven water storage tanks and to build five new ones among other projects. The company also spent $37.2 million to upgrade meter technology, including installing 3,162 new meters and replacing 45, 236 existing meters.
The company said its ongoing investments help modernize aging infrastructure, strengthen system reliability and support high-quality water and wastewater service. The proactive measures help to improve water flow for fire protection and help ensure communities continue to receive safe, reliable service.