Pittston, Luzerne County, PA -
Pennsylvania American Water has agreed to acquire Pittston City’s wastewater sewer collection system for $26.4 million, which would be a financial windfall used to provide essential services to residents and help fund economic development projects like a planned downtown theatre.
The deal is expected to be finalized by late 2026 after the utility obtains the necessary approvals from regulators, the company announced.
Pittston City property owners would be billed directly by Pennsylvania American Water on one bill since the utility is already the city’s drinking water supplier, a spokesman said.
Customers would continue to receive bills directly from the Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authority for wastewater treatment at its plant in Hanover Twp.
“We’re committed to our customers, providing high-quality water and wastewater services to help protect public health and the environment,” Pennsylvania American Water President Justin Ladner said. “We’re already the water service provider for residents of the City of Pittston, and we are truly honored that city leaders recognize the value we provide and that they’ve decided to entrust us with the future ownership of their wastewater collection system.”
The wastewater system serves approximately 4,400 customers in the city.
Pennsylvania American Water agreed to make necessary collection system upgrades, which are expected to total more than $5.1 million over five years, the company said.
While the deal is finalized, Pittston property owners will be billed by Pennsylvania American Water at current collection rates. The company’s rates are reviewed and approved by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC).
Pittston Mayor Michael Lombardo said Pennsylvania American Water was chosen after “a thorough and professional vetting process of potential purchasers.”
“Their plan offers a strong opportunity for the city, particularly in terms of future infrastructure modernization, ongoing maintenance and thoughtful consideration of both current and future rates, especially for our homeowners, seniors and residents on fixed incomes,” Lombardo said.
Pittston City would receive all the proceeds from the sale. The city plans to use proceeds to support essential services for residents and to fund other community improvements, including support for the Market & Main project, a proposed seven-story building that will include housing, retail stores and a 630-seat theatre.
“The purchase price and future investments committed to by Pennsylvania American Water will support the City’s long-term financial stability, create reserve funding to help offset rising fees and may even allow for additional homeowner tax relief,” Lombardo said. “I’m proud of the work done by city council and my administrative team on this forward-thinking initiative, and I’m confident in strengthening our already strong partnership with the Pennsylvania American Water team.”
