Water rates set to rise in Bristol County

Water rates will likely rise this coming year, with the Bristol County Water Authority expected to raise rates up to 3.25 percent following a public hearing on the matter Thursday.

BCWA Executive Director Pam Marchand said Monday that the proposed rate increase will go to fund infrastructural improvements and long-term upgrades. The maximum 3.25 percent increase could come out lower, she said.

“It all depends what the board (of directors) decides to do,” she said.

While rates are rising, the BCWA’s operation budget of $8.37 million, approved last year, is not expected to increase. The authority’s capital projects budget is set at $9.5 million and includes $1.5 million for a new pump station off Metacom Avenue in Bristol, $1.5 million for design work on the authority’s proposed Pawtucket water pipeline connection, another $1 million for construction work if it begins this coming year, and additional funds for water main replacement and other work on Ferry Road and Mulberry Street in Bristol, Child Street in Warren, and other work.

Thursday’s hearing had been scheduled for last Thursday, Jan. 4, but was postponed due to snow. It starts at 6 p.m. in the BCWA’s board room at 450 Child St., Warren.