Princeton City Council is set to consider a $96,300 contract renewal for water monitoring and compliance services at its March 23 meeting.
The proposed agreement would continue the city’s partnership with 120Water, Inc., a provider of software and data services used to track pipeline materials and monitor water safety across the system.
If approved, the contract would run for three years through March 2029 and be funded through the city’s Utilities Fund.
What the Contract Covers
The service focuses on two primary functions: tracking pipeline materials and monitoring water safety.
1. Pipeline Inventory Tracking
The system is used to map and track materials in both public and private water lines across Princeton.
This includes identifying locations where pipes may contain materials such as lead, which can pose potential health risks.
2. Water Safety Monitoring and Notifications
The platform also supports water testing, compliance tracking, and public notification.
Key functions include:
• automated data collection for regulatory reporting
• compliance tracking for state and federal standards
• public notification within 24 hours if lead levels reach or exceed 15 parts per billion
City materials indicate the notification system is designed to ensure residents are informed quickly if an issue is detected.
Why This Is Required
The contract supports compliance with the federal Lead and Copper Rule, established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
The rule requires cities to:
• monitor drinking water for lead and copper
• maintain detailed records of pipe materials
• report data to regulatory agencies
Princeton must also maintain a Certificate of Convenience and Necessity, confirming the city’s water system meets required safety standards.
According to the city, the 120Water system helps streamline these requirements and maintain compliance.
Cost and Contract Details
• Total contract value: $96,300
• Term: 36 months (2026–2029)
• Annual cost: $32,100
• Funding source: Utilities Fund
City staff note the renewal reflects approximately $6,856 in cost savings over three years compared to previous pricing.
The contract includes:
• a full software platform for infrastructure tracking
• managed services for compliance and reporting
• support for communication and data management
Why It Matters
While the item appears routine, it directly relates to public health and regulatory compliance.
Water systems depend on accurate data to:
• identify potential risks in infrastructure
• respond quickly to contamination concerns
• meet state and federal safety standards
The inclusion of rapid notification requirements also means residents would be alerted quickly if elevated lead levels are detected.
What Happens Next
City Council is expected to consider the item as part of the March 23 consent agenda, meaning it may be approved without separate discussion unless pulled by a council member.
Bottom Line
Princeton could approve a three-year, $96,300 contract to continue monitoring its water system and maintaining compliance with federal lead and copper regulations.
The system is designed to track infrastructure, ensure regulatory compliance, and notify residents quickly if issues arise.