Press Releases
Major system improvements reduce risk of pollution and improve reliability
KOPPEL, Pa. (Jan. 20, 2026) – Pennsylvania American Water announced the completion of a major infrastructure upgrade in Koppel Borough, investing nearly $7 million to improve service and protect the environment. The project reduces the risk of sewer backups and groundwater infiltration by replacing aging clay pipes with durable PVC pipes and installing 69 new manholes.
“Replacing old wastewater pipes and adding new manholes means fewer service issues and better reliability for our customers,” said Jed Fiscus, director of engineering project delivery for Pennsylvania American Water. “These upgrades will help protect homes from backups and help to ensure dependable service for the Koppel community.”
The project began in 2020 with a detailed inspection of three miles of pipeline using advanced camera technology. Over the course of five years, crews replaced approximately three miles of sewer main, including 6,600 feet in 2025 alone. Work concluded in early March 2025.
Smoke testing was performed in April of 2025, and it confirmed that the upgrades successfully addressed groundwater infiltration and structural weaknesses in the old clay lines, issues that previously increased the risk of sewer backups in homes. The improvements greatly reduced service disruptions and enhanced environmental protection for Koppel’s 755 residents.
These infrastructure upgrade projects are not only an important investment in public health and safety, they also help support the economic vitality of the community. Economic impact studies show that for every $1 million invested in water infrastructure, upwards of 15 jobs are generated throughout the economy. Statewide, Pennsylvania American Water invested approximately $675 million in 2024 alone to improve its water and wastewater treatment and pipeline systems, supporting more than 10,125 jobs through these continued investments.
About American Water
American Water (NYSE: AWK) is the largest regulated water and wastewater utility company in the United States. With a history dating back to 1886, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to more than 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water’s 6,700 talented professionals leverage their significant expertise and the company’s national size and scale to achieve excellent outcomes for the benefit of customers, employees, investors and other stakeholders.
For more information, visit amwater.com and join American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.
About Pennsylvania American Water
Pennsylvania American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is the largest regulated water utility in the state, providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 2.4 million people.
Media Contact:
Allison Centofanti
External Affairs Specialist
724-714-6866
allison.centofanti@amwater.com