SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The Board of the Springfield Water and Sewer Commission has approved a rate increase and people in several communities can expect to pay more for their water and sewer starting this summer.

The rate will go up six and a half percent for residential customers next month. A Springfield Water and Sewer Commission spokesperson said the rate increase supports ongoing projects to upgrade systems, including a new drinking water treatment plant.

The average rate increase for residential customers will be $7.50 a month. The proposed rate increases will be applied to water and sewer use beginning July 1, with increases reflected in bills issued in August 2023.

To be specific, the rate will increase by 29 cents per cubic foot for residential water, and 46 cents per cubic foot for residential sewer.