NJ American Water to purchase Manville wastewater system

New Jersey American Water announced it has signed an agreement to acquire the wastewater collection system (commonly referred to as the sewer system) of the Borough of Manville, N.J. for $6.5 million. This municipally owned system serves approximately 3,700 customers, most of whom already receive water service from New Jersey American Water. The agreement follows a voter referendum that took place in November 2023, in which over 80 percent of the voters approved the sale of the system to New Jersey American Water. “I want to thank the residents and elected officials of Manville for entrusting us to manage and improve their sewer utility and help safeguard the Borough and the environment from the many risks associated with operating a sewer collection system,” said Mark McDonough, president of New Jersey American Water. “We have extensive experience and expertise in providing drinking water and sewer service. As Manville’s longtime water company, we remain committed to making the needed improvements to provide the community with sewer service that is as safe, reliable and affordable as the water service we provide.” As part of the acquisition agreement, and subject to approval from the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJ BPU), New Jersey American Water will invest a minimum of $10 million in sewer system improvements in the ten years following completion of the acquisition. The system upgrades include addressing inflow and infiltration, flood mitigation efforts, and sewer main repairs and replacements. The agreement also includes short- and long-term rate stability proposals.