Press Releases

Winchester, Ind. November 5, 2025 – Indiana American Water, in collaboration with the City of Winchester, marked a significant milestone today with the groundbreaking of a best-in-class water treatment plant—designed to expand capacity, improve reliability, and help ensure the delivery of safe, clean, reliable, and affordable drinking water to more than 4,700 area residents and businesses.

The new facility replaced an aging water treatment plant that required several costly upgrades to remain operational. After a thorough cost-benefit analysis, it was clear that investing in a modern, more efficient plant would reduce long-term maintenance and operational expenses while delivering better value, and sustainable, resilient service to the community for decades to come.

“This new water treatment facility represents a major investment in Winchester’s future,” said Mayor Bob McCoy. “It strengthens our infrastructure, supports public safety, and delivers the reliable, high-quality water our residents and businesses deserve. We’re pleased that Indiana American Water brought this project to life.”

The upgraded plant will have a firm capacity of 1.25 million gallons per day (MGD) and a maximum output of 1.9 MGD, helping ensure the city is well-prepared for peak water use and emergency needs. In addition to increased production, the plant also expands the city’s water storage. Winchester’s existing elevated water tank near the town square holds 400,000 gallons, the new facility adds 450,000 gallons of additional storage, boosting overall system resilience and reliability.

Technological advances are also central to the new facility. A fully upgraded computer system allows for real-time monitoring and remote management of the system — helping ensure safe, efficient operations around the clock. These improvements save valuable staff time and improve operational efficiency.

Key Benefits of the New Water Treatment Plant:

• Advanced filtration capacity to meet maximum daily water demands
  The new plant is equipped with filtration systems designed to handle peak water usage, helping ensure consistent water quality even during high-demand periods.
• Reliable backwash residual system for consistent performance
  An upgraded backwash system efficiently manages residuals, improving reliability and reducing downtime during filter cleaning cycles.
• Upgraded chemical system safety for improved handling and storage
  New chemical feed and storage systems enhance safety protocols, minimize risk, and help ensure compliance with environmental and workplace regulations.
• Improved efficiencies providing lower energy consumption
• Enhanced chlorine contact zones now support more effective disinfection  Contributing to consistently safe drinking water and reinforcing compliance with public health standards.
• Increased pumping capacity to help maintain adequate water pressure and flow for fire protection.

“This new plant is a transformational development for Winchester,” said Barry Suits, President of Indiana American Water. “We’re not just increasing capacity—we’re investing in smarter infrastructure, better emergency preparedness, and long-term sustainability. Our team is proud to serve the people of Winchester with a system that’s built for the future.”

While the official groundbreaking took place today, the new water treatment facility seamlessly went online in April of this year, without any disruptions in service. Construction was completed on schedule and within budget, thanks to the collaborative efforts of Randolph County, the City of Winchester, Bowen Engineering (lead contractor), and Hazen and Sawyer (engineering design).

The new water treatment plant reflects a shared commitment by Indiana American Water and the City of Winchester to invest in infrastructure that supports public health, safety, and long-term sustainability and resiliency. With expanded capacity, advanced technology, and enhanced system reliability, the facility helps ensure Winchester is well-positioned to meet current and future water needs while delivering high-quality service to the community.

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 Indiana American Water

Indiana 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 1.5 million people.  For more information, visit amwater.com/inaw and join Indiana American Water on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and Instagram.