California American Water advances service reliability with $4.5m Bellflower upgrades and West San Martin acquisition

California American Water, a subsidiary of American Water, is ramping up its infrastructure investments with the completion of a $4.5 million water system upgrade in Bellflower, Los Angeles, and the acquisition of West San Martin Water Works for $1.6 million. These developments reflect the company’s strategic focus on enhancing water system reliability, improving customer service, and supporting sustainable growth in California’s communities.

How is California American Water improving Bellflower’s water infrastructure?

California American Water recently finalised a major infrastructure project in Bellflower, Los Angeles, replacing 8,510 linear feet of outdated 4- and 6-inch asbestos cement water mains with robust 8-inch ductile iron pipes. This upgrade marks a significant step in the company’s ongoing commitment to strengthening California’s water systems. The project also involved installing new service pipes for 170 customers, upgrading 13 fire hydrants, and replacing 39 gate valves, significantly enhancing both residential service reliability and fire safety infrastructure.

Since acquiring the City of Bellflower’s municipal water system in 2022, California American Water has channelled its resources and technical expertise into modernising the network. The improvements now benefit around 1,800 homes and businesses, ensuring more consistent water pressure, reduced risks of service interruptions, and enhanced system durability.

Jessica Taylor, Director of Operations for California American Water’s Southern Division, highlighted the long-term advantages of the project. She explained that replacing aging infrastructure with modern materials makes the system more durable, less prone to corrosion, and less susceptible to bursts, which directly reduces the frequency of emergency repairs and water outages.

“The Bellflower water main project is part of California American Water’s multimillion-dollar initiative to renew water infrastructure that has reached the end of its useful life,” Taylor said. She added that this investment is not just about preventing service disruptions but also about preparing the community’s water systems for future demands and environmental challenges.

Why is infrastructure investment critical for California’s water security?

Water infrastructure plays a pivotal role in safeguarding public health, protecting the environment, and fostering economic development. As California faces increasing challenges from aging infrastructure, population growth, and climate change, companies like California American Water are stepping up to address these issues proactively.

Investments in water systems help to mitigate risks associated with aging pipelines, such as leaks, contamination, and system failures. Modern materials like ductile iron pipes offer superior durability compared to older asbestos cement pipes, reducing maintenance costs and environmental impacts over time. Additionally, updated infrastructure improves water efficiency by minimising loss through leaks, which is crucial in drought-prone regions like California.

California American Water’s approach extends beyond technical upgrades. The company integrates sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient pumping systems and advanced leak detection technologies, into its projects. This comprehensive strategy not only enhances the resilience of water systems but also contributes to the broader goal of environmental sustainability.

What does the West San Martin acquisition mean for local customers?

In a move to expand its service footprint, California American Water completed the acquisition of West San Martin Water Works for $1.6 million. This acquisition adds approximately 325 new water connections to the company’s extensive network, which already includes around 40,000 connections in Monterey County and the Monterey Peninsula.

Kevin Tilden, President of California American Water, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, emphasising the benefits for West San Martin residents. “We’re thrilled to begin serving West San Martin customers and to continue providing safe, clean, and affordable water service,” Tilden stated. He noted that customers will gain access to enhanced customer service options, new water management programmes, and greater rate stability thanks to the company’s economies of scale.

The transition is designed to be seamless, with no action required from existing customers. California American Water’s extensive experience in managing water utilities ensures that service quality will remain consistent, while customers will also benefit from new resources dedicated to system improvements.

The acquisition was approved by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) in January 2025, and California American Water officially began providing services to West San Martin customers in February 2025. The company plans to invest in capital improvements in the region, focusing on both infrastructure resilience and water quality enhancements.

Brian Ukestad, former President of West San Martin Water Works, expressed confidence in the transition. Reflecting on his family’s 40-year tenure managing the utility, he stated, “For over 60 years, West San Martin Water Works has been proud to serve our community with safe and reliable drinking water. We are confident that California American Water will continue to uphold these standards in the years ahead.”

How do these projects reflect California American Water’s long-term vision?

California American Water’s recent initiatives in Bellflower and West San Martin are part of a broader strategy to future-proof California’s water infrastructure. The company serves approximately 700,000 people across the state, making its role critical in addressing California’s complex water management challenges.

By focusing on water system upgrades and strategic acquisitions, California American Water aims to create resilient, efficient, and sustainable water networks. This approach not only supports reliable water service for today’s customers but also prepares communities for future growth and environmental changes.

The company’s investments reflect a balance of technological innovation, operational efficiency, and community engagement. Whether through infrastructure improvements like the Bellflower project or service expansions such as the West San Martin acquisition, California American Water continues to prioritise the health, safety, and well-being of the communities it serves.