This project is a necessary to replace the existing water meters in the Town of Onancock which may be outdated, in questionable condition, or no longer compliant with HRSD’s water meter standards. Additionally, four new meters will be installed in the Town of Accomac. All of the new meters have automated reading capabilities that will ensure accurate water service billing. HRSD will take over the billing for the Town and the County after installation.

As with most mechanical devices, meters become less accurate with age. Manufacturers’ warranties show that accuracy decreases in most meters after 10 years. Our inspection of the water meters will determine if your water meter needs to be updated and replaced.

The water meters will no longer be manually read. Water usage data from each meter will be transmitted wirelessly through Verizon’s 4G LTE network to a secure server.

Meters are located below ground in a plastic or concrete meter box with a plastic or metal lid. These are usually located near the street in the city’s right-of-way.

No, the Town of Onancock and Accomac are conducting this meter exchange, and it is a mandatory program. If the old meters have reached the end of their useful life, they will need to be replaced.

There is no charge to you for the new meter.

Your water rate will not change. However, the new water meters will more accurately measure water usage as compared to the old meters. Customers may see a change in their water bill based on the new meter’s higher level of accuracy.

• A leaking toilet or a toilet that continues to run after being flushed.
• A dripping faucet or shower.
• Filling or topping off a swimming pool or spa.
• Frequent irrigation system use or issues.
• Guests or kids home for summer vacations or school holidays.
• Water-cooled air conditioners.
• A broken water pipe or appliance or fixture leak.
• Water softener problems where the unit cycles continuously.

The work required replace the water meters may result in temporary water service interruption. The contractor will notify you before work begins so you can plan accordingly. Water service typically will be restored within several hours. Your sewer service should not be affected by this project.

The contractor has negotiated with the Town of Onancock for a location to store most of the equipment and supplies. The contractor will keep some supplies within the active work zone, in the public right-of way.

Work will typically take place Monday through Friday during daylight hours (7 a.m. - 5 p.m.). However, there may be times when extended hours, work at night, or weekend work may be necessary.

The estimated cost for the project is approximately $500,000 and is financed by the wastewater treatment fees paid by HRSD customers.

Regular project updates are posted on the HRSD website at www.hrsd.com/construction-status. You may also sign up at www.hrsd.com/subscriptions to receive an email notification whenever the website has an update about the project.