Press Releases
Equalization tanks will help ensure effective treatment at times of high flow
EXETER TWP., Pa. (March 30, 2026) – Berks County waterways will be better protected contamination from insufficiently treated wastewater following construction of new equalization tanks at Pennsylvania American Water’s Exeter Township Wastewater Treatment Plant. Site work for the $23 million project began recently at the plant.
“Protecting streams and rivers is at the core of our work,” said Gerald DeBalko, senior engineering manager for Pennsylvania American Water. “These equalization tanks act as a buffer, storing wastewater during periods of high flow or high pollutant levels and then releasing it at a controlled rate. This helps ensure the water is fully treated before it is returned to the environment.”
Pennsylvania American Water acquired the Exeter wastewater system after a 2018 accidental discharge of more than four million gallons of untreated sewage into the Schuylkill River, threatening drinking water supplies for people throughout the region.
The work includes the demolition of outdated parts of the wastewater treatment plant and construction of the equalization tanks. It is anticipated that the tanks with a total capacity of 3 million gallons will go into service by the end of 2027.
Pennsylvania American Water has invested more than $33 million in upgrades of the Exeter wastewater system since its acquisition.
The system includes the Exeter Township Wastewater Treatment Plant and 132.7 miles of collection mains. It serves approximately 19,000 residents in Exeter Township and St. Lawrence Borough as well as small portions of Alsace and Lower Alsace townships.
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 and celebrating 140 years in 2026, We Keep Life Flowing® by providing safe, clean, reliable and affordable drinking water and wastewater services to approximately 14 million people with regulated operations in 14 states and on 18 military installations. American Water's approximately 7,000 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 with approximately 1,200 dedicated employees working to provide safe, clean, reliable and affordable water and wastewater services to approximately 2.5 million people.
Media Contact:
John Kelemen
External Affairs Manager
John.Kelemen@amwater.com
484-238-5216