The transaction, approved by the Delaware Public Service Commission on February 19, 2025, transitions ownership and operational oversight of a water system that already served approximately 900 customers through an ongoing service relationship between TUI and the Town since 2008. This formal acquisition now grants Tidewater full ownership and the right to provide regulated water services to Ocean View residents.
Bruce E. Patrick, President of Tidewater Utilities:
“Maintaining the same water rates for all Ocean View residents during this transition is of the utmost importance to our team. We remain steadfast in our commitment of delivering clean, safe, reliable water service to our customers and remaining good community partners, just as we have for the past 17 years.”
Since its inception, TUI—through its affiliate White Marsh Environmental Systems, Inc.—has handled Ocean View’s water distribution, meter reading, billing, and operational services. The acquisition represents the next step in what has been a long-standing public-private partnership, offering continuity, cost predictability, and enhanced customer service under the oversight of a regulated utility.
Carol Houck, Ocean View Town Manager stated,
“The sale of the Ocean View water distribution system to Tidewater Utilities presents benefits to the Town in several ways. First and foremost, it ensures rate equity to our former water customers as Tidewater is subject to the regulations of the Delaware Public Service Commission. Likewise, Tidewater, a trusted partner to the Town for many years, will enhance customer service options to our former customers.”
Residents can expect no change in water rates as part of the transition. Additional service information will be communicated directly to customers and made available on www.TUIWater.com.
Tidewater’s acquisition comes at a time when water utilities are under increasing pressure to modernize infrastructure, ensure water quality, and align with environmental regulations. As a regulated utility, TUI operates under the oversight of the Delaware Public Service Commission, which ensures transparency, public accountability, and equitable rate structures for customers.
With 172 active wells, 85 treatment plants, and service to over 62,000 customers across 480 communities, Tidewater is the largest private water provider south of the Chesapeake & Delaware Canal. The acquisition aligns with Middlesex Water Company’s broader strategy of sustainable regional growth, infrastructure investment, and service reliability.
This acquisition reinforces a broader trend in the U.S. water utility sector: municipalities seeking long-term sustainability and regulatory alignment are increasingly partnering with experienced investor-owned utilities.
Middlesex Water Company, with roots dating back to 1897, has maintained a consistent focus on operational excellence, infrastructure modernization, and customer service innovation. Its selective acquisition strategy—demonstrated in the Ocean View deal—supports long-term growth while addressing critical community needs in water safety, equity, and resilience.
