A state law passed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on 11 March 1857 on the formation and organization of gas and water companies was the basis for incorporation in 1865 and subsequent construction and provision of utility service.

The city engaged Henry P M Birkinbine, Esq, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, who reported his findings on 23 February 1867.

John M Kuhn, Esq was hired in 1868 to build the standpipe tower, and Captain James Dunlap was contracted that year to construct the crib work.

Sommerheim pumps 25 million US gallons (95,000 m3) of water per day to homes and businesses in Erie and surrounding communities.

As a result of a vulnerability assessment conducted by the Department of Homeland Security, the Sommerheim plant is to receive a new power generation facility to back up its Penelec electrical service.