Utility company Pennsylvania American Water and local officials have broken ground on a new water treatment plant in East Vincent Township, Chester County, US.

The Lock 57 Water Treatment Plant will supply water for the township's water system.

The project will see an investment of $123m and will cover a range of treatment improvements and key infrastructure best practices.

It includes the installation of an ultraviolet light disinfection system for an additional protection layer against viruses and bacteria, primary plate settlers for pretreatment, and granular activated carbon filters, among others.

Pennsylvania American Water president Justin Ladner said: “This significant company investment will allow us to continue providing clean, safe drinking water to the area, and we are thrilled to announce the upcoming construction of the new Lock 57 Water Treatment Plant [will] be right here in East Vincent Township.”

The current Shady Lane Water Treatment Plant is situated near the new facility and was built in 1918 and has undergone several expansion projects since.

Due to site constraints at this plant, the company acquired a new greenfield site from the Commonwealth in 2019 for the upcoming Lock 57 facility.

East Vincent Township manager Bob Zienkowski said: “When you look around, you see everything that relies upon quality water, and that’s something we’re very proud that Pennsylvania American Water provides, not only to us but to the surrounding communities.”

Construction is scheduled to commence before the end of this year and is set for completion in 2027.