Bristol County Water Authority Announces Rate Increase

BRISTOL, RI — Bristol County residents will see an increase on their water bill this coming spring. Starting in March, Bristol County Water Authority customers, both commercial and residential, will see a 10 percent hike in rates.

According to the department, most residents will see an increase of about $4.77 per month, or $52.27 per year. The water authority's board of directors approved the rate increase after a public hearing on Jan. 13.

The additional revenue will be used for the Pawtucket pipeline project, reserve funds and to make up for lowered income from decreased water consumption. The increase is set to go into effect on March 1.

"We want our customers to know we consider rate increases thoroughly, as we know they affect all households and businesses," said Pam Marchand, the BWCA's executive director and chief engineer. "But we believe this is necessary to continue to maintain and improve the utility. And most importantly, to provide our customers with a safe, high-quality, and reliable water supply."

All customers will receive letters from the department. Anyone with questions is encouraged to call the department at 401-245-2022 or visit the website.