Question 1

Will my trash get picked up during construction?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the contractor will coordinate with your solid waste provider to make sure your trash is picked up.

Question 2

Will my mail get delivered during construction?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the contractor will coordinate with the U.S. Post Office to make sure your mail is delivered.

Question 3

Do I have to hook up to the Water Authority line after it is done?

Accepted Answer

No. You can continue to use well water if your well is in proper working order.

Question 4

I’m a member of the Western Terrace Water System. Can I still get my water from them after construction?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can continue to get your water from Western Terrace or connect to the new Water Authority line. It is your choice.

Question 5

If I connect to the new waterline, can I continue to use my private well?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Residents who connect can continue to use their wells for irrigation. Wells must be properly disconnected from household plumbing.

Question 6

Will I be required to put a meter on my private well?

Accepted Answer

Question 7

How much will I have to pay for water each month if I decide to connect?

Accepted Answer

Your monthly bill will depend on how much water you use and the size of your meter. For more information, click here for the average Water Authority bill.

Question 8

Will it cost me anything to connect?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All new customers are required to pay a utility expansion charge (UEC) and a meter installation fee. New customers are also responsible for hiring their own licensed plumber to make the connection between the meter and the house, or obtaining the necessary permit from Bernalillo County if they wish to do it themselves. Customers with homes built after the established SVDWP Project date of 5/21/2008 will also be required to pay the WRC. For more information, see the ResourcesSection.

Question 9

Is financial assistance available?

Accepted Answer

Depending on your household income, assistance may be available through Bernalillo County’s PIPE program.

Also, the Water Authority offers a loan program that allows residents to pay the cost over 10 years, at an annual interest rate of 7 percent over 10 years, after making a small downpayment.

More information is available in the Resources Section.

Question 10

I own an undeveloped property within the area that will be constructed. Will       my property receive a water meter or water meters for future development?

Accepted Answer

Vacant lots within developed residential areas will also receive a new service. Lots excluded from water meter and service line installation include undeveloped properties outside of developed areas and lots larger than three acres.

Question 11

Why should I consider connecting to the new water system?

Accepted Answer

Unlike water from private wells, the quality of the municipal water supply is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency under the Safe Drinking Water Act.

Question 12

How do I connect to the new water system?

Accepted Answer

Once the waterline is installed along your street, you can call the Water Authority to schedule a connection. You will have to arrange with a licensed plumber, or obtain a DIY permit from Bernalillo County, to install the line from the meter to your house. More information is available in the Resources Section.

South Valley Drinking Water Project – Phases 8 and 9

South Valley Drinking Water Project – Phases 8 and 9

FAQ