Core Insights - Illinois American Water's Interurban District completed significant upgrades to its water treatment plant in 2025, focusing on service reliability, water quality, and operational efficiencies [1][2][4] Investment and Upgrades - Since 2019, $157 million has been invested in upgrades and enhancements to the Metro East regional water treatment plant [1] - The upgrades include construction of an elevated water storage tank, new raw water pumps, a new diesel backup pump, and a new ultraviolet water treatment system [7] Capacity and Service - The water treatment plant serves approximately 75,000 direct customers, equating to a population of over 350,000 in the Metro East [3] - The plant meets a daily demand of approximately 39.3 million gallons, with a maximum daily demand of about 47.7 million gallons [5] Economic Impact - The investments in water and wastewater infrastructure have created over 1,500 jobs in the Metro East region, with a reported economic ripple effect of 10 jobs created for every $1 million invested [8] Recognition and Standards - The East St. Louis water treatment plant is a member of the Partnership for Safe Water, a national initiative recognizing water suppliers that exceed EPA regulatory requirements [9]

Core Viewpoint - H2O America is expanding its wastewater service connections in Texas through the acquisition of South Central Water Company, which will significantly enhance its operational footprint and efficiency in the region [1][2]. Group 1: Acquisition Details - H2O America’s Texas Water Company (TWC) will acquire the Cibolo Valley wastewater treatment plant and associated collection systems from South Central Water Company, adding over 1,500 new wastewater connections to TWC's existing base of approximately 1,200 connections [1][2]. - The Cibolo Valley wastewater system has more than 250 wastewater connections under contract and pending construction, further increasing TWC's service capacity [1]. - This acquisition is expected to be filed with the Public Utilities Commission of Texas in Q3 2025, with a closing anticipated in Q4 2026 [2]. Group 2: Strategic Importance - The acquisition represents a substantial expansion of owned wastewater connections, more than doubling connections within Texas and increasing total connections across H2O America by over 35% [2]. - TWC has been providing billing services to SCW, indicating a seamless transition for customers and enhanced operational efficiency [2]. Group 3: Company Background - H2O America operates a national network of local water and wastewater utilities, serving approximately 407,000 service connections and focusing on sustainable infrastructure investments [6]. - Texas Water Company has been providing reliable water and wastewater services since 2006, emphasizing public health and environmental stewardship [4]. - South Central Water Company has built over 800 wastewater treatment plants in Texas and has a robust pipeline of projects to serve over 70,000 customers [5].