Press Releases

CAMDEN, N.J. – March 27, 2026 – New Jersey American Water is beginning a $1.92 million water infrastructure improvement project in the Belford section of Middletown to enhance system reliability, support water quality and improve system performance for customers. The work is part of the company’s long-term commitment to upgrading aging infrastructure across the more than 190 communities it serves throughout New Jersey.

“We are committed to making proactive investments that strengthen reliability and support the long-term needs of the communities we serve,” said Paul Morales, superintendent of Field Operations for New Jersey American Water’s Shrewsbury Operating Center. “Replacing older mains with modern materials improves service, reduces the potential for outages and enhances fire protection for residents and businesses.”

The company will install over a mile of new 6-inch and 8-inch ductile iron water main to replace aging pipes originally installed in the 1940s. As part of the upgrade, crews will renew 86 customer service lines, update two existing fire hydrants and install four new hydrants. By removing older dead‑end pipe sections and creating a more connected, looped system, the project will improve water circulation, support stronger water pressure and enhance service reliability throughout the neighborhood.

Work will take place along the following streets:

• Campbell Avenue
• Park Place
• Garnsey Avenue
• Ridge Avenue
• Lohsen Avenue
• Main Street between Compton Street and Edwards Avenue
• Myrtle Avenue
• Irving Place

Weather permitting, work is expected to begin on or around March 30, 2026, and continue through June 2026. Crews will work Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and weekend work is not expected unless required to maintain the project schedule.

The project will be performed by New Jersey American Water’s local, qualified contractor Perna Finnigan, Inc., with traffic control coordinated in partnership with local officials to support safe travel through work areas. Access to homes and driveways will be maintained. Daily cleanup will occur, and where excavation is required, temporary restoration will be installed. Permanent restoration will follow once the soil has settled, typically about 90 days after project completion.

Customers are encouraged to log in to their MyWater account to update contact information and choose how they wish to receive project notifications. Individuals who are not New Jersey American Water account holders can sign up for alerts by texting WATER to 99411.

About New Jersey American Water 
New Jersey American Water, a subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), is the largest regulated water utility in the state with approximately 875 dedicated employees working to provide safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 3 million people. For more information, visit www.newjerseyamwater.com and follow New Jersey American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and Instagram. 

Media Contact:
Damarah Brown 
Sr. External Affairs Specialist
New Jersey American Water
damarah.brown@amwater.com