Dedham Westwood Water District

The Dedham-Westwood Water District (DWWD) is proud to present our Annual Water Quality Report for 2017. This report aims to inform residents about the quality of their tap water, which is vital to our community's wellbeing. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MADEP) conducts regular inspections of our water system to ensure we maintain high standards.

Throughout 2017, we implemented several system improvements as part of our commitment to quality service. These included installing 6,266 feet of water main, 24 fire hydrants, 60 water services, and 409 meters. Our Bridge Street Water Treatment Plant Modernization Project began construction last summer and remains on budget, with completion expected in 2019.

The treatment plant renovation includes structural updates, heating and ventilation system improvements, a new emergency generator, process equipment enhancements, and a new building to house filtration equipment. Barbato Construction of Middleboro, MA was awarded this project at an estimated cost of $8.8 million.

Our water sources are primarily local groundwater from 17 wells. Five wells are situated in Westwood near the Neponset River by University Avenue, and one well is near Rock Meadow Brook by Dover Road. In Dedham, eleven wells are located by the Charles River near Bridge Street. We serve approximately 40,100 residents through 13,400 meters and service lines.

The DWWD maintains emergency water connections with Boston, Norwood, Needham, and the MWRA. Last year, approximately 2% of our water supply came from the MWRA. For residents interested in water protection efforts, both Dedham and Westwood have implemented water resource and aquifer protection zoning bylaws.

Our certified water treatment operators continuously treat the water through a multi-step process. This includes aeration to oxidize minerals like iron and manganese, filtration to remove suspended materials, chlorine addition for disinfection, pH adjustment to prevent pipe corrosion, and fluoride addition to prevent dental decay.

We encourage all customers to help protect our water resources and use water wisely. For more information about this report, please contact Executive Director Eileen Commane at (781) 461-2779.

1. Why was my water bill high even though my home was flooded and I couldn't use water normally?

   Most of the City's water meters are electronic and transmit usage data electronically for billing purposes. When meters are submerged in floodwater, they cannot transmit usage electronically. In these cases, your bill is estimated based on an average of your prior three months' usage.

2. What if my estimated bill was much higher than my actual usage?

   Any water bill that was estimated due to flooding will be adjusted during the next billing cycle once actual usage is recorded. If you were charged more than your actual usage, you'll receive a credit for the difference on your next monthly statement.

3. Does the City offer water/sewer rate assistance programs?

   Qualifying customers may be eligible for payment plans, extended due dates, and/or waiver of late fees. Please contact Water Customer Service for details about these assistance options.