By: Richard L. Smith
The Passaic Valley Water Commission (PVWC) is embarking on a significant chapter in its history with the approval of a 5-year, $809 million capital plan, marking the most significant investment ever undertaken by the company.
This initiative underscores PVWC's long-standing commitment to the communities it serves, a legacy that began in 1849 with the incorporation of the Passaic Water Company.
Supplying high-quality drinking water to about 800,000 people in Northern New Jersey. PVWC manages approximately 650 miles of water mains across six municipalities: Paterson, Clifton, Passaic, Prospect Park, Lodi, and North Arlington.
With nearly 60% of these pipes set to be over 100 years old by 2030, the commission is facing the challenge of aging infrastructure and evolving regulations.
The last major upgrades to the treatment systems were done 20 years ago, and it has been 50 years since the distribution system was significantly improved.
The planned capital investments are a response to these aging systems and are projected to slightly increase customer rates by just over $1.00 per month.
Jim Mueller, the executive director of PVWC, emphasized the importance of these investments not only for maintaining high-quality water but also for supporting community growth and socioeconomic development.
The commission is exploring cost-saving measures, including low-interest loans and state programs, while also performing some work in-house to foster local job creation and skills development.
The improvements will address several key issues, including the removal of PFAS/PFOA contaminants, reducing discolored water complaints, preventing lead and other contaminants from leaching into the water, and enhancing the ability to isolate main breaks.
PVWC is committed to keeping its customers informed throughout the upgrade process and encourages residents to stay updated through their free notification system at https://www.smart911.com/smart911/ref/reg.action?pa=pvwc.