Illinois American Water acquires Village of Andalusia wastewater systems

Illinois American Water has acquired the Village of Andalusia water and wastewater systems, adding more customers to its northwest service area.

The $3.3m acquisition was completed after obtaining approval from the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC).

The purchase adds about 480 water and 480 wastewater customers to Illinois American’s northwest service area.

Prior to this, Illinois American recently acquired the Village of Shiloh wastewater system in a deal valued at $3.6m, adding about 1,515 wastewater customers to its southern Illinois service area.

Illinois American Water president Justin Ladner said: “We are pleased to close on another significant acquisition and to further expand our water and wastewater footprint in Illinois.

“This purchase positions our team well to serve northwest Illinois while providing long-term water and wastewater solutions as well as financial benefits for Andalusia.”

In the initial five years of ownership, the company plans to make an investment of $2m to modernise the Village of Andalusia water and wastewater systems.

As part of these works, outdated and undersised water main will be replaced to improve water pressure and service.

Additionally, sewer main will be lined throughout the Village and automation would be implemented to improve operational efficiency.

The water treatment plant and the wastewater treatment plant upgrades will be carried out to improve employee safety.

Illinois American Water senior operations manager Eric Larson said: “We are excited to serve Andalusia and to upgrade this critical infrastructure. Providing quality, reliable service and doing so safely is our priority; we appreciate the Village’s trust and confidence in our team.”