The Philadelphia Water Department has proposed a two-year rate hike for all residents, but before it gets the green light, Philadelphians have a chance to voice their opinions.
The Philadelphia Water, Sewer, and Storm Water Rate Board will hold four public hearings this month, allowing the public can learn about the proposed increase and provide comment.
What proposed increases look like
PWD has requested increased water, sewer, and stormwater rates. Beginning Sept. 1, 2025, the monthly bill for the typical residential customer would increase by 11.7 percent. The following year, on Sept. 1, 2026, a typical customer would experience an additional 5.9 percent increase.
Details about the requested rates are posted to the Rate Board site.
Before any new rates are put into effect, the Rate Board will review the Philadelphia Water Department’s request and hold public input sessions and technical hearings to assess whether the proposed increases are fair and justified. A final decision is expected this July.
Public hearings scheduled
The public input hearings will be held: April 22, from 1 to 3 p.m., at Philadelphia Gas Commission, 1515 Arch Street, 18th Floor, (in-person); April 22, from 6 to 8 p.m. (virtual); April 23, from 6 to 8 p.m., Zion Baptist Church, Broad and Venango Streets, (in-person); April 23, from 1 to 3 p.m. (virtual).
Those interested in attending the virtual meetings can find additional details and links online at phila.gov/water/
