American Water Works Company, Inc. reports developments tied to its regulated water and wastewater utility operations across the United States. The company provides drinking water and wastewater services to about 14 million people through regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations, with operating subsidiaries including California American Water, Pennsylvania American Water, Maryland American Water, Virginia American Water, Illinois American Water, Iowa American Water and Tennessee American Water.
News for AWK commonly covers annual water quality and Consumer Confidence Reports, state-level service updates, infrastructure investment, public utility rate proceedings, drinking water standards, community programs and subsidiary activity in local service territories. Updates also reference the company’s long operating history and its role in regulated water and wastewater service delivery.
New Jersey American Water has signed a $5 million agreement to acquire the wastewater collection system of Bound Brook, N.J., adding approximately 2,900 new customers. This acquisition follows a November 2021 voter referendum where nearly two-thirds approved the sale. The company plans to invest over $11 million in system improvements over ten years, maintaining current sewer rates for two years and capping annual increases at 3% for three years thereafter. This marks the company's third wastewater acquisition in three years, expanding its customer base significantly.
Pennsylvania American Water has launched its 20th Annual “Protect Our Watersheds” Art Contest for fourth to sixth graders in its service area. The contest aims to foster environmental awareness among students, encouraging them to create artwork and write narratives on watershed protection. Twelve entries will be featured in the 2023 calendar, with winners receiving bookstore gift cards. The artwork submission deadline is Earth Day, April 22, 2022. This initiative highlights the company's commitment to environmental education while engaging young artists in meaningful community involvement.
Illinois American Water has requested adjustments to its water and wastewater base rates, primarily due to over $1.1 billion in investments from 2018-2023. The funds are allocated for $948 million in water system improvements and $204 million in wastewater upgrades. Proposed rate changes could increase residential monthly water bills by $6 to $14 and wastewater bills by $7 to $17. A low-income discount tariff could reduce costs for eligible customers by up to $23 monthly. The decision will be made by the Illinois Commerce Commission.
American Water Works Company (NYSE: AWK) has completed the sale of its Michigan utility operations to Ullico's Triton Utilities for $6 million. This move aligns with AWK's strategy to focus on regions where it can deliver superior service and efficiency. The Michigan operations served approximately 12,000 residents across five townships, significantly enhancing Ullico’s capability to serve customers. The decision reflects AWK's ongoing efforts to streamline its operations and improve financial performance.
American Water (NYSE: AWK) announced the retirement of its president and CEO, Walter Lynch, effective February 2, 2022. Susan Hardwick, previously the Interim CEO and Chief Financial Officer, has been appointed as the new president and CEO. The Board expressed full confidence in Hardwick, citing her extensive utility experience and commitment to stakeholders. Hardwick joined American Water in June 2019, serving as CFO since July 2019, directing financial management and strategy. A search for a new CFO is currently underway.
Missouri American Water is investing $2.1 million to replace over 9,300 feet of aging water mains in Jefferson City, enhancing the city's water system. The planned upgrades will replace 6-inch cast iron mains from the 1950s-1960s with new 8-inch PVC mains across four projects. Construction is set from January through May 2022, with potential temporary disruptions in water service. The initiative aims to improve reliability and safety in water service for approximately 1.5 million customers in Missouri.
Illinois American Water has opened its application window for the 2022 Environmental Grant Program, aimed at funding community projects that protect Illinois watersheds. The grants, totaling over $29,000 last year, support diverse initiatives like watershed cleanups and reforestation. Organizations must address a local environmental need, partner with at least one other group, and ensure project sustainability. Applications are due by March 31, 2022, with projects to be completed between May 1 and November 30, 2022. More information and application forms are available on their website.
American Water announced its 2022 Environmental Grant Program, accepting applications for community projects in 12 states. The program, launched in 2005, focuses on funding innovative environmental initiatives that protect water resources. In 2021, the company funded 49 projects with approximately $188,000 in grants. Applications are due by March 31, 2022. The initiative reflects the company's commitment to providing reliable water services while minimizing environmental impacts.
Missouri American Water is investing $2.4 million to replace over 9,200 feet of aging water mains in Mexico, Missouri, starting January 2022. This initiative aims to enhance service reliability and deliver clean drinking water. The project includes replacing old cast iron mains with new PVC pipes across multiple streets, with completion expected in mid-2022. Additionally, the upgrades will improve fire flow for local firefighters. Customers may experience temporary service interruptions during construction, which will follow all compliance directives.
Pennsylvania American Water has launched its 2022 Environmental Grant Program, accepting applications for community-based projects aimed at improving local watersheds and water supplies. This initiative has been ongoing for 15 years, having donated over $565,000 to more than 100 projects. Eligible projects must be innovative, evidence sustainability, and be completed within the grant year. Applications are due by March 31, 2022, with recipients announced in late April. Last year, 12 organizations received $40,000 in grant funds.