Pennsylvania American Water, prioritizing safety for employees, emergency responders, and the community, recently won an infrastructure award for their Chlorine Conversion Project in Birdsboro, Berks County. The project, which was completed in December 2022, converted 1-ton chlorine gas cylinders to bulk liquid sodium hypochlorite tanks. Recognized as a potential hazard if left untreated properly, the move to replace them follows Pennsylvania American Water’s goal to invest more than $600 million in Pennsylvania’s water and wastewater treatment systems. 

Pennsylvania American Water was acknowledged at the 2023 Building Berks Awards and Expo, which celebrates innovation, investment, and growth across the county through the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance. 

The aging chlorine gas cylinders stored a large and highly toxic amount of the gas, and while low levels can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, high levels can cause severe lung damage — a hazard that Pennsylvania American Water sought to eliminate and upgrade to newer, safer tanks. 

In the past five years, Pennsylvania American Water has invested over $20 million into Berks County water and wastewater systems through main replacements, tank and pump station upgrades, and plant improvement projects. The company plans to invest another $46 million in the next five years at the Exeter Wastewater Treatment Plant alone. 

Anyone can nominate or be nominated for the Building Berks Awards, with numerous categories for projects to be recognized in such as Healthcare, Education, Infrastructure, Residential, and more. 

Aaron Gantz, Senior Director of Economic Development at the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance, said, “These awards are a celebration of the investments made in our community. The Infrastructure category recognizes those essential investments that might not always grab the spotlight but are essential to the community’s safety and growth.” 

The Chlorine Conversion Project, being within the Exeter Wastewater Treatment Plant, means many do not see the accomplishment in person, but it still makes a huge difference in the operation and safety of those working or visiting the plant, as well as the improving operation. 

Millions of dollars were invested into 30 projects that were nominated for this year’s awards. Pennsylvania American won the award for the Infrastructre category and were presented with the award on stage at the celebration. 

“The nominated projects are part of a larger story we continue to tell about the Greater Reading community – the region is growing,” said Gantz. 

Read more about Pennsylvania American Water’s Exeter Wastewater Plant here.