The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), working in partnership with the City of Trenton and the Townships of Hamilton, Ewing, Lawrence, and Hopewell (the “Participants”), is seeking proposals from qualified consultants or firms to assist in the establishment of a Regional Water Utility. Currently, Trenton Water Works (TWW) a municipally owned department in the City of Trenton provides water to over 200,000 people residing in the City of Trenton and in portions of the surrounding municipalities in Ewing Township, Hamilton Township, Lawrence Township and Hopewell Township. Under the regional governance structure all five (5) participating towns will have representation and influence over key decisions, fostering a sense of shared ownership and mutual responsibility. This participatory approach is crucial for maintaining trust and cooperation among the towns, as it ensures that the unique needs and priorities of each community are addressed. The benefits of a regional governance structure are twofold. Firstly, it enables the pooling of resources and expertise, allowing for more efficient and effective management of the water system. By working together, the towns can achieve economies of scale, reduce costs, and enhance service quality. Joint decision-making also encourages innovation and the sharing of best practices, leading to improved operational strategies and technological advancements. Involving all towns in the governance structure fosters a more equitable distribution of resources and services. Decisions about infrastructure investments, maintenance, and resource allocation are made with the collective good in mind, ensuring that all communities benefit fairly from the regional system. This collaborative approach also strengthens the system's resilience, as towns are more likely to support each other during emergencies and disruptions.
