THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, June 2, 1996 TAG: 9605310166
SECTION: PORTSMOUTH CURRENTS PAGE: 06 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Editorial
LENGTH: 29 lines
The new water agreement between Portsmouth and Chesapeake was a long time coming, but it is welcome news for the citizens of both cities. In addition, it speaks reams about the need for better cooperation among the cities of Hampton Roads.
Both cities will gain: Chesapeake a reliable water supply for fast-growing areas in Western Branch and Deep Creek, and Portsmouth some ready cash for water it doesn't need.
Since Chesapeake, not Portsmouth, will make the capital investment in a pumping station, Portsmouth's investment will be limited to the transmission line it has built to transport 2.9 million gallons of water a day already being sold to Chesapeake.
The new deal calls for the sale to Chesapeake of an additional 2.6 million gallons per day immediately after the new pumping station is built and increasing to a maximum of 5 million gallons over the years to 2020.
The new contract is expected to mean $1.5 million a year to Portsmouth in addition to the current income, which last year amounted to $1.9 million.
Portsmouth needs the money. Chesapeake needs the water. It's a good deal for both cities.
Most of all, the transaction once again points to the absolute necessity for cooperation among Hampton Roads' communities. by CNB