Jersey City Together Celebrates Victory on Safe Drinking water

Jersey City Together leaders celebrate completion of water fountain project at PS30 in Jersey City

On March 20, 2025, fifty leaders from Jersey City Together were joined by JC Public Schools Superintendent Norma Fernandez and other school officials, JCMUA Executive Director Joe Cunha, Mayor Steven Fulop and other community leaders at Alexander D. Sullivan School (PS30) to celebrate the completion of a seven-year effort to improve water systems and install new water fountains in all Jersey City Public Schools. Student performances underscored their gratitude and highlighted the celebration action’s connection with World Water Day.

Thanks to JCT’s efforts, 1,169 fountains have been installed at all 44 schools and early childhood learning centers owned by the Jersey City Board of Education. All Jersey City public school students, teachers and staff have access to sustainably-sourced clean, safe drinking water. The $17+ million project was funded through multiple sources including the JCMUA, JCBOE, and a NJ Department of Education water infrastructure reimbursement grant. Work was completed by Guarini Plumbing. 

The success has been a result of collaboration among the  City, JCMUA, and School District, and the sustained advocacy of the Jersey City Together Education Team. This project reflects the importance of organizing work to solve community problems working with leaders at our member institutions and with local and state public officials. Jersey CIty Together leaders were determined from the outset that this project  would provide sustainably sourced safe drinking water for ALL students, and we maintained pressure on public officials to complete the water fountains at all district school buildings. For a history of this work, see the water campaign page on our website: njtogether.org/water

This community investment in water infrastructure with an emphasis on clean water continues Jersey City Together’s organizing work for healthier schools and facilities reflecting dignity for the children of Jersey City. Crucial work lies ahead to equitably ensure that all children in Jersey City have access to an excellent public education.

Jersey City Together Education Team has been advocating for clean and safe drinking water fountains in every Jersey City Public School since 2018, following listening campaigns when school families and staff shared the adverse effects of dehydration on behavior and learning potential, and the risks of relying upon truck deliveries of water jugs. This historic achievement is a testament to the concrete accomplishments that can be realized through grassroots organizing and community engagement. To learn more about the Jersey City Together Education Team and to get involved, head to: www.njtogether.org/education.   

See these articles from the Jersey City Times and the Hudson County View for more information about the March 20th Celebration and the campaign.