Politics & Government

Newark Launches Website With ‘Real Time’ Water, Sewer Information

Residents can pay their bills, get info about water emergencies or see a list of ongoing work – including the contractor name and cost.

NEWARK, NJ — Newark officials have announced the launch of a new website that has “real-time information” about water, sewer and storm drain systems in the city.

On Wednesday, Mayor Ras Baraka and Department of Water and Sewer Utilities Director Kareem Adeem released more information about the new initiative.

The website – water.newarknj.gov – will be a way for local residents to pay and track their bills, file for permits, find contact information for the department and ask questions about issues like new water connections and billing. There will also be a section for contractors to submit bids for water and sewer-related infrastructure projects and repairs, and a list of ongoing work (naming the contractor and cost).

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On the homepage of the website, there will be a news ticker that will give real-time updates on water emergencies and flooding – a 24-hours service, officials said.

“It is vital we remain transparent in our bid process and costs to upgrade our infrastructure and water processing,” Baraka said. “Residents have a right to know how their water rates and tax dollars are being spent. This newly-created website will ensure that everyone who lives and works in Newark will have 24/7 access to our Water and Sewer Utilities Department information.”

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Adeem said the new website will help residents and media better understand the massive amount of work constantly going on to keep Newark’s water flowing, its sewers draining, and storm water moving.

“Right now, people can go to the website and follow the progress of our ongoing projects, and see what projects we have on deck in the short-term and long-term,” Adeem said, noting that the city has spent about $220 million on water and sewer improvements during Baraka’s administration, not including the city’s $190 million lead line replacement.

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