Pa. American Water works to upgrade McKeesport system
The improvements are focused on “maintaining reliable service and protecting public health.”
For the MVI
Pennsylvania American Water is investing in critical infrastructure improvements to strengthen wastewater service in the McKeesport area. These upgrades will enhance system reliability, improve safety and help protect the quality of the local drinking water sources.
Construction started in October on the new Glenn Avenue Lift Station in Port Vue. The current station, which is more than 40 years old, is outdated and in a floodprone zone. The $1.5 million facility upgrade will include emergency power, upgraded electrical systems and a modern wet well outside the 100-year floodplain.
Once it’s operational in early 2026, the old station will be retired.
“These improvements are essential to maintaining reliable service and protecting public health,” said Charles Schultz, manager of McKeesport wastewater operations for Pennsylvania American Water. “By investing in modern infrastructure, we’re ensuring that our systems can meet the needs of customers today and for decades to come.”
In August, Pennsylvania American Water began rehabilitating an original clarifier at the Duquesne Wastewater Treatment Plant, a $1.2 million project replacing outdated systems, repairing concrete and upgrading piping. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025 so work on the second clarifier can begin in 2026.
Pennsylvania American Water is upgrading McKeesport’s wastewater system to better safeguard homes, businesses and local rivers from flooding and pollution caused by heavy rainstorms.
The goal of these improvements is to develop a resilient system capable of handling major storms and treating at least 85% of water flow annually — helping to keep waterways clean and communities healthy.
During the past five years, the company has invested $97 million to upgrade more than 14 miles of wastewater main in the company’s McKeesport District, which serves more than 10,400 customers in McKeesport and Duquesne, Port Vue, Dravosburg and a portion of West Mifflin. These upgrades strengthen the system and support long-term environmental health.
