BRYN MAWR, PA — Essential Utilities Inc. (NYSE: WTRG) has completed its $450,000 acquisition of a municipal water system in Bradford County and plans to invest approximately $2 million over five years to repair aging infrastructure and upgrade operations serving about 180 customers.
The company’s Aqua Pennsylvania subsidiary acquired the assets of the Ulster Municipal Authority following approval by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission on August 27, 2026.
The transaction transfers operation of the Ulster Township water system to Aqua, expanding the utility’s customer base while placing responsibility for infrastructure improvements and regulatory compliance under private ownership.
Aqua identified facilities requiring repair or replacement during its initial inspection of the system. The company expects to prioritize those deficiencies as part of its planned capital improvements.
“We learned during our initial inspection that some of the facilities are in need of repair and replacement, which will be a focus of our initial efforts,” Aqua Pennsylvania President Marc Lucca said.
The planned investment also includes improvements to system operations and measures addressing environmental, regulatory and cybersecurity requirements.
At approximately $2 million, the projected infrastructure spending is more than four times the purchase price, reflecting the additional capital Aqua expects to commit after acquiring the assets.
Customers’ base water rates will remain unchanged when the transaction closes. Any subsequent rate adjustments will require approval from the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission.
Eligible households will gain access to Aqua’s Customer Assistance Program, which provides assistance to qualifying low-income customers, and its Aqua Aid hardship fund.
Customers will also receive access to Aqua’s online account portal and mobile application for bill payments, water usage information and account management.
Essential Utilities Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Christopher Franklin said the company intends to make the investments needed to maintain drinking water service in Ulster Township.
The acquisition follows a decision by the Ulster Municipal Authority to transfer the system to Aqua as a means of addressing long-term infrastructure and operational requirements.
Authority Chairman Frank Walker said the organization considered the sale the best option for the system’s long-term sustainability.
State Sen. Gene Yaw and state Rep. Tina Pickett also supported the transaction, citing the infrastructure investment and operational resources Aqua will bring to the community.
Aqua Pennsylvania will provide customers with information about service schedules and procedures as the system transitions to its operations.
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