California American Water completes 1st phase of Multi-Year Parkway Project

California American Water has completed the first phase of its multi-million dollar Parkway water main replacement and meter installation project.

During this phase, the company replaced and relocated approximately 3,000 feet of backyard mains to the street side of properties located in Sacramento’s Parkway neighborhood. This project replaced the water distribution system originally installed in the ‘50s.

Relocating water mains in the public right-of-way significantly improves access for crews to maintain and repair the water system, which will in turn improve fire protection, system reliability and help prevent major main breaks similar to those that have previously occurred in this area.

In addition, the company installed about 70 meters on homes within the project zone as part of our ongoing project to retrofit all flat-rate properties with water meters in order to comply with state law and encourage conservation.

“California American Water is dedicated to providing reliable service to our customers,” said Northern California general manager Andy Soule. “This $4.4-million-dollar project is just one of several we have in Sacramento that will improve the service, safety and reliability of water service to our customers.”

Planning for the project’s final two phases is already under way. The bidding and contracting process for these two phases will begin near the end of 2012 with work expected to begin in 2013.

California American Water, a wholly owned subsidiary of American Water (NYSE: AWK), provides high-quality and reliable water and/or wastewater services to approximately 600,000 people.

Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest publicly traded U.S. water and wastewater utility company. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs more than 7,000 dedicated professionals who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to approximately 15 million people in more than 30 states, as well as parts of Canada. More information can be found by visiting www.amwater.com.

In 2011, American Water is celebrating its 125th anniversary with a yearlong campaign to promote water efficiency and the importance of protecting water from source to tap. To learn more, visit www.amwater125.com.