American Water to Acquire Shorelands Water Co.

American Water announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire the Shorelands Water Co., a privately owned water utility that provides water services to more than 11,000 customer accounts in Monmouth County, N.J. Financial and other terms of the sale are not disclosed. The agreement is subject to the review and approval of the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities.

“This important acquisition provides a direct link with our water system serving the community of Union Beach, enhancing supply to the northeastern sections of Monmouth County that we serve,” said Bill Varley, president of New Jersey American Water. “The strength of the Shorelands system will help New Jersey American Water achieve a goal of increased reliability for customers without the need for additional projects that were being evaluated.”

Shorelands was first established in 1926 as a supplier to the summer residents of West Keansburg. Under the guidance of the current owners since 1957, it grew to provide service to residents in the Bayshore communities of Hazlet, Holmdel, Union Beach, Keyport and Aberdeen. Shorelands delivers approximately 2 billion gal of water to its customers annually.

When completed, the acquisition will continue the expansion of New Jersey American Water’s operations. Earlier this year, American Water acquired Environmental Disposal Corp., which provides service in the Bernards and Bedminster areas in New Jersey, and New Jersey American Water acquired the former Roxiticus Water Co. in Mendham Township, N.J., and began providing water and wastewater service to Elk Township, N.J.

Source: American Water