Virginia American Water, which services Alexandria, announced Friday that it has filed for a 12 percent rate increase, or approximately $4.3 million, with the Virginia State Corporation Commission.

The company says the requested increase reflects higher costs of treating and delivering water as well as infrastructure investment. The bill for the average Virginia American Water residential customer in the Alexandria District would increase by $3.09 per month, or about 17 percent.

Operational improvements and efficiencies have enabled us to avoid increasing rates over the past four years, but the effects of capital improvements and continuing expense increases are not reflected in the companys current rates, said William Walsh, president of Virginia American Water. Even with the proposed increase, our customers will continue to pay well under one penny per gallon for water service, Walsh continued.

Rates will remain unchanged until July 8, allowing time for extensive review of the filing by Virginia State Corporation Commission staff and other parties who will participate in the case.

The company says the increased numbers reflected in the rate petition are only a request. The Virginia State Corporation Commission will make the final decision regarding the amount of the actual increase. Once a final decision has been made, customers will receive information via postal mail explaining the new rates. Customers with additional questions can contact Virginia American Waters Customer Service Center toll free at 1 (800) 452-6863.

Virginia American Water is the largest investor-owned water utility in the state, providing water services to about 320,000 people.

The company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Water. Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest investor-owned water and wastewater utility company in the U.S. With headquarters in Voorhees, N.J., the company employs 6,900 workers who provide drinking water, wastewater and other related services to 16.2 million people in 32 states.