NJ American Water Begins $1.8M Upgrade In This Mercer Co. Town

MERCER COUNTY, NJ — New Jersey American Water has begun approximately $1.8 million in water infrastructure improvements in Hopewell Borough, weeks after completing its acquisition of the borough's water system.

The project includes replacing about one-half mile of aging 6-inch cast iron water main with new 12-inch ductile iron pipe along West Broad Street between Louellen Street and Windsor Way. The work also includes installing two new fire hydrants and replacing 47 company-owned service lines.

"New Jersey American Water is hitting the ground running and getting right to work replacing water mains and upgrading lead and galvanized service lines," said Mayor Ryan Kennedy. "Coming at the same time residents receive their final water bill from Hopewell Borough, the transition to New Jersey American Water is a big step forward for our infrastructure and long-term affordability."

Roger Shaffer, senior manager of field operations for Central Operations of New Jersey American Water, said the work reflects commitments made during the acquisition process.

"Within weeks of completing the acquisition, we're already making improvements that will strengthen reliability today while supporting more than $7 million in planned investments over the next five years," Shaffer said.

If lead or galvanized piping is identified during the project, New Jersey American Water will work with property owners to replace the entire service line from the curb to the home, as part of a statewide initiative to remove all lead and galvanized service lines by 2031.

The project is being coordinated with Mercer County's planned paving of West Broad Street, allowing infrastructure work to be completed before the roadway is resurfaced. Work began in July and is expected to be completed by early October. Crews will work Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., with weekend work not anticipated unless needed to maintain the project schedule. Motorists should expect periodic traffic impacts and detours within the project area.

The project is being performed by New Jersey American Water's contractor, CRJ Contracting Corp., with traffic control coordinated with local officials. Access to homes and driveways will be maintained throughout construction. Daily cleanup will occur, and temporary restoration will be installed where excavation is required. Permanent restoration will follow approximately 90 days after project completion, once the soil has settled.

In addition to the West Broad Street project, New Jersey American Water is preparing for a broader meter modernization initiative in the borough, which will include installing outdoor meter pits and relocating water meters from inside homes. The company said the change will help provide more accurate readings, reduce estimated bills over time, and eliminate the need to access homes for future meter reading and maintenance. Customers will receive additional information before that work begins.

Customers are encouraged to log in to their MyWater account to update contact information and choose how they receive project notifications. Non-account holders can sign up for alerts at AWCodeRed.com or by texting WATER to 24639.

Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com