Water and Wastewater Rates Increasing in Speedway, Will Help Pay for Water-Related Infrastructure
SPEEDWAY, Ind.–Water and wastewater rates are increasing in Speedway.
The Speedway Town Council says the increase amounts to $14.30 per month for people who use 4,000 gallons of water or less per month. The increase takes effect June 1 and the first bill is due in August.
At the water plant, the rate increase will support updates to the existing well system; new wells; dam improvements; chemical treatment changes; improved operational processes; updates to the building facilities; and new water mains, valves, and meters.
At the wastewater plant, the rate increase will support new boilers, pumps, and meters; improvements to electrical and safety measures at the lift station; a new lift station at Chapel Hill; and an overall upgrade to the plant’s life system.
“Our new water rate puts us in the middle of the pack in central Indiana. The sewer rate is still the third lowest with the increase, still an enviable position,” said Jacob Blasdel, Speedway Clerk-Treasurer.
Speedway Wastewater Superintendent Norm Berry says these rate increases need to be done in the name of public health.
“In order to protect public health, you have to meet these certain limits and treat the water to the point where it’s not a public health hazard,” said Berry.
Prior to this, Speedway had not raised its rates since 2011. The wastewater plant was built in 1954, with the water plant following in 1965. Both facilities are operating with the original equipment.
