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Background

Pennsylvania American Water is building from scratch a new public groundwater system to serve residents of Dimock Township in Susquehanna County, whose private wells were impacted by methane contamination. This system will provide clean, regulated drinking water to eligible homes and is on schedule to be completed by the end of 2026.

Project Overview

In 2022, the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General reached a plea agreement with Coterra Energy requiring the company to fund the construction of a new public water system in Dimock. Coterra is contributing $16.25 million to support the project. Any leftover funds will be used to pay the water bills of affected residents.

Pennsylvania American Water was selected to design, permit and construct the system, which includes a new groundwater supply, advanced treatment facilities and connections to homes across a six-mile distribution network.

What the System Includes

  • A new public water supply sourced from groundwater
  • A four-stage treatment process to meet all Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) drinking water standards
  • Approximately six miles of pipeline throughout Dimock Township
  • New service lines to eligible homes
  • Disconnection from private wells to prevent cross-contamination
  • A backup generator to support system reliability

Project Timeline and Progress

2023-2024: Planning and Design

  • Engineering and permitting for the pipeline and treatment system were completed.
  • In October 2023, Pennsylvania American Water filed its application with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC).
  • The PUC approved the project in January 2024 with support from the Office of Attorney General and the Office of Consumer Advocate.
  • Permits for stormwater and construction activity were secured through the Pennsylvania DEP.

Spring 2025: Construction Begins

  • Pipeline construction is now underway along Dimock to Nicholson Road (SR3023), Dimock to Brooklyn Road (SR2024), Carter Road and Meshoppen Creek Road.
  • Water treatment facility construction is scheduled to begin later in 2025.
  • Road restoration and main pipeline work are expected to be completed by early 2026.

March 2025: Water Source Identified

  • Pennsylvania American Water completed drilling on two new test wells. Preliminary flow data indicates sufficient water supply to meet long-term demand.
  • Water quality testing has been completed.
  • An aquifer test plan will be submitted to the Pennsylvania DEP in spring 2025 to confirm well capacity as part of the source approval process.

Late 2026: Home Connections and Service Activiation

  • Licensed plumbing contractors will install service lines to eligible homes.
  • Homes will be fully disconnected from private wells before switching to the public water supply.
  • The full system is expected to be operational by the end of 2026.

What Residents Can Expect

  • You will be contacted by Pennsylvania American Water to confirm the location for your new water service line.
  • A licensed contractor will install the service line at your property during the final stage of construction.
  • Your home will be disconnected from its existing well to prevent any risk of cross-contamination.
  • Once connected, your drinking water will meet or exceed all state and federal safety standards.
  • There will be no immediate cost for water service as Coterra will cover your water bill for the next 75 years as part of the agreement.

Stay Informed

We’re committed to transparency and progress. Construction is moving forward on schedule, and regular updates will be posted to this page.

Updates and Media Coverage