Nearly $3.5 Million in Upgrades for Shenandoah Borough and Surrounding Communities; Will Improve Service Reliability for Customers
BRYN MAWR, Pa. (July 21, 2026) - Aqua Pennsylvania announced work is underway on a water main replacement project in Shenandoah Borough, Schuylkill County. It is part of a nearly $3.5 million investment to replace more than 7,000 feet of drinking water main across Aqua’s Shenandoah service area in 2026. The aged pipes are being replaced with new ductile iron pipes, which will reduce the potential for main breaks and provide more reliable service for decades to come. Upgrades also include the replacement of nine fire hydrants, which will help improve public safety.
“When we purchased the Shenandoah system in 2023, we expected to invest more than $23 million in system improvements over the first 10 years. To date, we have invested $8.5 million in the system, and we remain committed to the work ahead,” said Aqua Pennsylvania President Marc Lucca. “We want our customers to know they can count on safe and reliable drinking water service. Infrastructure improvements like those happening right now in Shenandoah are a top priority for us. They help fulfill our commitment to provide residents an essential resource through a drinking water system that is built for the future.”
In Shenandoah Borough, Aqua Pennsylvania crews are installing nearly 1,530 feet of drinking water main on West Oak Street. The $1 million project involves replacement of two existing mains that are undersized and prone to leaks. Four fire hydrants will also be installed along that corridor. The project also involves removing unused, active water mains that are unnecessary and increase the chances of breaks and leaks.
"The much-needed upgrade will bring modern piping to Shenandoah Borough that will reliably deliver drinking water to residents," said State Representative Dane Watro. "This is an improvement with an eye on our community's future and ensuring dependable, high-quality water service for years to come."
“I am thankful that Aqua has committed to much-needed upgrades to Shenandoah’s aging water system,” said State Senator David G. Argall. “I look forward to working with Representative Watro, Shenandoah Borough, and Aqua to ensure these critical improvements continue.
“As Aqua identifies infrastructure needs, we are working closely with them to develop long-term solutions that deliver lasting benefits to our residents,” said Shenandoah Borough Manager Mike Cadau.
Aqua Pennsylvania is also working on four other water main replacement projects in West Mahanoy Township; three in Lost Creek and one in Raven Run. In 2026, a total of 5,500 feet of water main will be replaced in the Township totaling nearly $2.5 million. Five fire hydrants will also be installed.
“I’m grateful for the work that Aqua is doing in West Mahanoy Township, especially when it comes to upgrading the fire hydrants,” said Township Supervisors Chairman Paul “Pepper” Martin. “Keeping our residents safe is our top priority, and we appreciate that Aqua shares that commitment and continues working to improve the Township’s water infrastructure.”
Work is expected to be completed on all Shenandoah service area main replacement projects by the fall of 2026.
Find out more about Aqua Pennsylvania’s commitment to our customers in the Commonwealth.