DEP allocates $3M for operational oversight of Trenton Water Works amid compliance issues

In a recent budget hearing held by the New Jersey Assembly Budget Committee, significant concerns were raised regarding the operational challenges facing Trenton Water Works. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has maintained oversight of the water utility due to ongoing compliance issues, as highlighted in two independent reports released earlier this year. These reports pointed to chronic maintenance problems, inadequate management, and underinvestment, placing Trenton Water Works at a high risk for systemic failures.

During the hearing, a key point of discussion was the proposed allocation of $3 million for direct operational oversight of Trenton Water Works in the fiscal year 2026 budget. This funding aims to address the utility's operational deficiencies, which have persisted despite the installation of a new $9 million water system. The DEP clarified that this operational oversight differs from the previous state monitor, emphasizing that it involves direct intervention and support beyond typical regulatory roles.

An example cited during the meeting involved ice affecting the intakes of Trenton Water Works, which required the DEP to hire engineering support to resolve the issue. This incident raised questions about the effectiveness of the new system and the ongoing operational challenges that necessitate additional funding. Committee members expressed frustration over the need for further financial support, questioning how the $3 million would be utilized to ensure the utility's proper functioning.

The discussions underscored the broader implications of Trenton Water Works' operational struggles, highlighting the need for sustained investment and effective management to prevent future failures. As the committee deliberates on the budget, the focus remains on ensuring that Trenton Water Works can provide reliable service to its customers while addressing the systemic issues that have plagued the utility for years. The outcome of these budget discussions will be crucial in determining the future stability and reliability of water services in Trenton.