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Greene County Upgrades Water Management in East Dunkard

New water management infrastructure in Greene County enhances community service.

News Summary

Greene County, Pennsylvania, has seen a significant improvement in its water management system with Pennsylvania American Water’s acquisition of East Dunkard Water Authority. This change benefits approximately 1,600 customers by ensuring compliance with drinking water regulations and introducing a $16.1 million investment plan for upgrades over the next five years. The transition is aimed at providing reliable service, enhancing community trust, and improving customer service efficiency. Clear communication and operational transparency are key focuses for the new provider.

Greene County Welcomes New Water Management in East Dunkard

Good news is bubbling up in Greene County, Pennsylvania, as the local water system gets a much-needed upgrade! Pennsylvania American Water has recently completed its acquisition of the water system assets from the East Dunkard Water Authority (EDWA). This shift means approximately 1,600 customer connections now have a reliable provider looking after their water needs.

A Significant Change for Customers

Before this transition, things were a bit rocky for the EDWA system. Pennsylvania American Water stepped in as the system’s receiver after an emergency order from the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission in November 2023, followed by a court order in February 2024. The team quickly realized that the infrastructure was in poor shape, with many systems out of compliance with essential drinking water regulations.

Pumping In the Investment

Here’s where the excitement begins: Pennsylvania American Water has huge plans for improvement, with an impressive investment of $16.1 million earmarked for the next five years! Customers can expect to see updates in main restorations and replacements, technology enhancements, and major upgrades to the treatment plant. In fact, they’ve already spent nearly $2 million in their first year as the court-ordered receiver, demonstrating their commitment to revitalizing the system.

Purchasing Power

On March 13, 2025, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission confirmed the company’s $5 million purchase of the EDWA system. As part of this exciting changeover, Pennsylvania American Water will maintain the current rates charged to customers, with any potential future rate changes needing PUC approval. This ensures fairness and transparency for everyone involved.

Building Trust with the Community

With a strong history of service, Pennsylvania American Water is the largest water and wastewater utility in the state, providing for about 2.4 million people. As the new operator of the East Dunkard system, the company’s priority is maintaining compliance with drinking water regulations and enhancing service quality for all existing EDWA customers.

Streamlining Customer Service

The transition for billing customers is set to kick off in May 2025. Get ready for some changes! From that time on, customers will receive prorated bills covering service from April 29 until the company’s first meter read. Payments will no longer go through the EDWA, helping streamline the process and improving efficiency.

Consistency and Communication

One of the key focuses has been on improving operations at the East Dunkard treatment plant, with significant upgrades already underway. Pipeline leaks that had been resulting in substantial water loss have already been identified and fixed since Pennsylvania American Water took charge. In a bid to ensure continuity and expertise, employees from Pennsylvania American Water have also been training EDWA workers. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of community and consistency in water management.

Keeping Residents in the Loop

To maintain transparency, regular communication with residents is a high priority. This ensures that everyone is informed about the improvements being made to the local water system and can trust that their drinking water is in good hands.

Looking Ahead

As we look to the future, the changes being implemented in Greene County’s water system are evidence of a broader trend across Pennsylvania. Consolidations and receiverships are increasingly seen as effective solutions to tackle the challenges posed by aging infrastructure and regulatory complexities in water and wastewater systems throughout the state.

With Pennsylvania American Water at the helm, the East Dunkard community can take a deep breath and feel confident they’ll have safe, reliable drinking water flowing into their homes for years to come!