CAMDEN, N.J. – New Jersey American Water announced Thursday that it has signed an agreement to purchase the Hopewell Borough water system for $6.4 million, following voter approval of the sale in November. The acquisition, which is pending review by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, is expected to close in the first half of 2026.
The Hopewell system currently serves more than 880 customer connections. Once the acquisition is finalized, New Jersey American Water plans to invest $7 million in infrastructure upgrades over the next five years, including the replacement of aging mains and the removal of all lead and galvanized steel service lines by 2031.
“We are honored to earn the trust of Hopewell Borough and its residents,” said Mark McDonough, president of New Jersey American Water. “Because we have supplied a significant portion of Hopewell’s water for many years through a bulk water agreement, this transition will be seamless for our future customers. We are committed to investing in the system to replace aging infrastructure, remove lead service lines, and enhance reliability, all while keeping rates affordable.”
Hopewell Mayor Ryan Kennedy said the agreement follows more than two years of planning, analysis, and public engagement. “Moving forward with this agreement with New Jersey American Water allows our community to receive the critical investments we need to modernize our water infrastructure and help ensure safe, reliable service for every resident while reducing our water rates,” Kennedy said. “It also allows us to retire our municipal debt and reinvest those funds in priorities that strengthen our community.”
Under the agreement, New Jersey American Water will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of Hopewell’s water system after taking ownership to determine additional improvement needs. The company said it will coordinate closely with local officials to ensure a smooth transition for customers.
New Jersey American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the state’s largest regulated water utility, serving approximately 2.9 million people. American Water operates in 14 states and on 18 military installations nationwide.
New Jersey American Water plans $7 million in upgrades after signing a $6.4 million agreement to acquire Hopewell Borough’s water system pending state approval.