New Jersey American Water Expands Presence with Somerville Sewer System Acquisition

Latest purchase benefits 3,800 residents and reinforces commitment to New Jersey communities.

OCT. 5, 2023 - Two days ago, New Jersey American Water completed the purchase of the Borough of Somerville's wastewater collection system, enhancing its footprint with an additional 3,800 wastewater customers. Valued at $7 million, the transition comes after the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities granted its nod on September 27, 2023.

The acquisition means that a large portion of these residents, already availing of the company's water services, will now also benefit from its sewer services. The decision mirrors the voice of the local community—75% of voters had approved the system's sale in a November 2022 referendum.

Mark McDonough, president of New Jersey American Water, expressed his gratitude, stating, “As Somerville’s long-standing water provider, taking on the role of their sewer company fills us with pride. We are all set to initiate improvements ensuring that the sewer services meet the same standards of safety, reliability, and affordability as our water services.”

Part of the acquisition deal sees New Jersey American Water pledging a minimum of $9.5 million over the next decade toward the enhancement of the sewer system. 

Somerville Mayor Dennis Sullivan views this development positively. He remarked, "Transferring the sewer system's ownership to New Jersey American Water is in the best interest of Somerville. This move not only ensures consistent maintenance and improvements but also stabilizes sewer rates and allows the borough to channel funds into other essential projects."

To keep residents informed, mailers detailing the transition are in the process of being dispatched. Additionally, the company has set up a dedicated webpage named "Somerville Sewer" under its 'Customer Service and Billing' section. This can be accessed on their official site, www.newjerseyamwater.com.

This acquisition is the fourth of its kind by New Jersey American Water in the past half-decade, taking the total of new wastewater customers to over 11,300. Their previous inclusions span the Bound Brook, Long Hill Township, and Mount Ephraim sewer systems. Furthermore, as of June 2023, the company took over Egg Harbor City's water and sewer system in alignment with the state's Water Infrastructure Protection Act, marking the addition of more than 1,500 water and sewer clientele.