New Jersey water commission receives go-ahead to upgrade cast iron water pipes

(UI) — Passaic Valley Water Commission (PVWC) has received approval for four engineering contracts to begin the initial studies necessary to make improvements to its aging cast iron water pipes, PVWC Executive Director Jim Mueller announced.

Customers that reside in New Jersey’s Clifton, Passaic, Paterson, Lodi, North Arlington and Prospect Park can expect to see changes to improve water quality.

"Shortly after I became executive director, I asked the Communications and Intergovernmental Affairs department to set up quarterly meetings with each of our three owner cities and other municipalities we serve," Mueller said. "At each meeting, I listen to issues, and we work to find solutions, some of which include more frequent flushing of water mains, if necessary."

The engineering contracts, which total about $1 million dollars, are necessary to help evaluate conditions and alternatives and to develop a prioritization plan so the company can begin the initial phase of replacing aging cast iron water pipes in the ground. A plan to improve water quality by upgrading these aging pipes is anticipated to be complete by the end of 2023, including identifying the first phase of work to be executed soon after. The water commission will take into account high priority areas that have systemic taste, odor and color issues; and will also evaluate water demand and pipe capacity to ensure pipes are sized properly for existing and future generations.

"PVWC is one of New Jersey's largest public water systems and the company takes pride in providing clean drinking water to its customers,” Mueller said. “We appreciate the patience our customers have shown as we work to upgrade our system infrastructure."

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