The Portland Water District (PWD) Board of Trustees has approved a $69.4 million operating budget for 2026, representing a 6.5% increase over the prior year. The Board also approved $82.8 million in capital investments, nearly $30 million more than last year, reflecting PWD’s continued focus on investing in critical infrastructure, protecting public health, and ensuring reliable service for the future.
The 2026 budget supports critical investments in water main replacement, treatment facility upgrades, meter replacement, and system resiliency, while also addressing rising operational costs such as electricity, insurance, and supplies. The 2026 capital plan includes significant investments in wastewater and stormwater infrastructure, including $16 million for the Westbrook Conduit Stormwater Tank, required under PWD’s Combined Sewer Overflow Long Term Control Plan and permit with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, and $15 million toward the new North Windham Wastewater Treatment Facility scheduled to start up in 2026.
Beginning January 1, 2026, water rates will increase by an average of 7.4%, resulting in an increase of approximately $1.92 per month for the typical residential customer.
Ensuring Dependable Operations
PWD manages more than 430,000 assets that support the delivery of safe, reliable drinking water and effective treatment and collection of wastewater across the region. Many of these assets are reaching an age where proactive reinvestment is essential to maintain service quality, protect public health, and safeguard the environment. Sustained investment allows PWD to renew infrastructure strategically and strengthen system performance and reliability.
“This budget reflects our responsibility to plan ahead and invest wisely in the systems that deliver clean water and protect our waterways,” said Scott Firmin, Portland Water District General Manager. “By making these investments today, the Board is helping ensure reliable service, environmental protection, and long-term affordability while avoiding greater costs and disruptions in the future.”
Commitment to Affordability
PWD remains committed to balancing necessary infrastructure investments with affordability. The 2026 budget further strengthens support for customers enrolled in the Lifeline Water Rate program, increasing subsidies to help qualifying households manage water costs. Eligible customers may apply through the Opportunity Alliance.
The 2026 Comprehensive Budget Report is available on the website.