Public hearings being conducted by Pennsylvania's Utility Commission for discussions on the proposed water rate hikes in Pittsburgh
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is currently reviewing a proposed rate increase for Pittsburgh Water, affecting both residential and commercial customers. The proposed increases, if approved, would mark a substantial change in water bills for many residents and businesses in the city.
If the proposal is accepted, a typical residential bill of around $100 per month would rise to over $123 in 2026 and over $135 in 2027. Customers in discount programs would see smaller increases, with bills rising by approximately 11% in 2026 and 10% in 2027.
Public hearings were held in August 2025 to gather input on the proposal, with two in-person sessions taking place at the Grandville Hall Auditorium, Jeron X. Grayson Community Center, and the Hazelwood Healthy Active Living Community Center. For those unable to attend in person, telephonic participation was also offered. Registration for these hearings is now closed, but residents and businesses are encouraged to stay informed and participate in any future hearings or actions by regularly checking the PUC's official website or contacting them directly.
The proposed rate increases aim to generate more than $84 million over two years to cover costs related to infrastructure improvements and other expenses. Pittsburgh Water has already removed 13,000 lead service lines and aims to have all lead lines in its system replaced by 2027. The rate increase request is for improvements to the water, wastewater, and stormwater systems.
The exact timeline for the PUC's decision is not specified, but residents and businesses are urged to stay informed and make their voices heard in the ongoing discussion about Pittsburgh Water's proposed rate increases.
- The proposed rate increase for Pittsburgh Water, if approved, could lead to changes in both general news and policy-and-legislation, as it affects both residential and commercial customers.
- In the energy sector, the proposed rate increase could impact various industries, as it targets Pittsburgh Water's water, wastewater, and stormwater systems for improvements.
- The financial implications of the proposed rate increase are significant, with typical residential bills anticipated to rise to over $135 per month by 2027.
- As the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) reviews the proposal, it is crucial for residents and businesses to stay informed about the ongoing decision-making process in politics and policy, particularly with regard to the weather and environment, as Pittsburgh Water has ambitious goals for infrastructure improvements and the removal of lead service lines.
