American Water Works Company, Inc - AWK STOCK NEWS

New Jersey American Water will begin its annual water main flushing program next week, continuing through the fall. This initiative is vital for maintaining high-quality water service for customers and complying with the Water Quality Accountability Act. The flushing process will enhance water flow and remove sediment buildup, though customers may experience temporary low pressure or discolored water. Updates about flushing schedules are available on the company’s website. New Jersey American Water serves approximately 2.8 million residents, ensuring reliable water and wastewater services.

Missouri American Water has initiated a $3 million project to replace over 6,200 feet of aging water mains in St. Louis County. This replacement of eight-inch cast iron pipes, originally installed in the 1940s, aims to enhance service reliability and reduce disruptions for customers. The project, commencing the week of March 14, will progress in three phases, expected to last until October 2022. Ongoing notifications will keep the community informed about construction updates.

American Water Works Company (NYSE: AWK) has received a $485,000 grant from the Water Research Foundation to study how disinfectants, like chlorine, combat pathogens such as Legionella. This collaboration with Tufts University aims to advance research on water safety and pathogen management. Dr. Zia Bukhari emphasized the company's commitment to innovative solutions in water treatment, enhancing detection methods and customer education. American Water serves over 14 million people across 24 states, focusing on delivering safe and reliable water services.

California American Water has applied to the California Public Utilities Commission to acquire the Bass Lake Water Company in Madera County. This acquisition aims to enhance water service for approximately 1,000 customer connections in the Bass Lake community. The company, which already operates nearby, emphasizes its robust conservation programs and customer assistance initiatives. This strategic purchase, initiated in 2019, supports California American Water's commitment to providing high-quality water services in California.

West Virginia American Water has received approval for its 2022 infrastructure replacement program, known as the Distribution System Improvement Charge (DSIC), from the Public Service Commission of West Virginia. The approved surcharge facilitates timely cost recovery for infrastructure investments totaling $32.5 million, including upgrades to over 30 miles of water mains and service lines. Customers will see a reduced surcharge of 1.62%, averaging about $1.01 per month. This is a decrease from the prior year's average surcharge of $3.55, improving financial relief for customers while enhancing water service reliability.

Illinois American Water’s Peoria District announced a $950,000 investment to build a new pump station that will replace one from the 1930s. This facility will enhance water distribution to Bartonville residents and utilize energy-saving technology with variable frequency drive motors. Improved controls and backup power are included to ensure reliability during adverse weather conditions. The new station is expected to go online next month, with no impact on current water services. Illinois American Water serves approximately 1.3 million people across the state.

On February 24, 2022, the Public Service Commission of West Virginia approved new water and wastewater rates for West Virginia American Water (WVAW) customers, resulting in an annual revenue increase of approximately $13 million, or 8.33%. This adjustment stems from $258 million in infrastructure investments since 2018, although not all investments were recognized. Wastewater customers in Fayette County will see a 14.87% increase. Aiming to assist low-income households, the new rate structure includes discounts and payment assistance programs.

Missouri American Water has successfully acquired the Hallsville wastewater system, providing services to about 700 customers in Boone County, Missouri. The acquisition, approved by the Missouri Public Service Commission, follows a ballot measure supported by over 68% of voters in November 2019. The company plans to invest approximately $3.3 million in the wastewater system over the next five years to enhance service reliability. Missouri American Water aims to deliver efficient operations, as highlighted by President Rich Svindland.