SOUTH ORANGE, NJ — Effective April 1, the rate charged for water in South Orange increased by 2 percent from $5.92 per 100 cubic feet to $6.03 per 100 cubic feet.
The rate increase reflects the basic cost of living increase of 2 percent and will help pay for the debt service associated with the many water system infrastructure projects in process to improve system reliability and ensure high quality water is delivered for years to come, according to a statement on the South Orange Village website.
Because most residential customers are billed quarterly, most will see two amounts billed at two different rates on their bill. The first amount — water used before April 1 — will be billed at the old rate of $5.92 and the second amount — water used after April 1 — will be billed at $6.03.
In 2018 the South Orange Village Water Utility will begin work on redeveloping Well No. 17 to increase the capacity of water that can be drawn from it, as well as implementing a Granular Activated Carbon filtration system South Orange will also begin the process of replacing the Crest Drive Standpipe reservoir to bring its operation in line with modern system operation practices for the next 30-plus years. In 2019 South Orange will begin a significant maintenance upgrade to the Newstead Water Sphere, which feeds the highest elevations of South Orange. As always, New Jersey American Water crews will be seen around town continuously maintaining the various pipelines, valves, hydrants and pumps that keep the system running and provide reliable service.
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