Warwick Sewer Authority – Warwick, RI

Authority Overview and Mission

The Warwick Sewer Authority (WSA) is the municipal body responsible for the collection and treatment of wastewater for the City of Warwick. Headquartered at 125 Arthur W. Devine Boulevard, the Authority operates an advanced wastewater treatment facility designed to protect the environmental health of the Pawtuxet River and Narragansett Bay. Established in 1962, the WSA manages hundreds of miles of sanitary sewer lines and numerous pump stations. While the treatment plant is an industrial site, the administrative offices located here serve as the primary contact point for engineering inquiries, sewer assessments, and the administration of the city’s mandatory sewer connection program. Residents and developers visit this office primarily for technical permits, industrial pretreatment compliance, and board meetings, rather than routine bill payments.

Emergency Services and Inspections

One of the most critical functions of the WSA is its 24/7 Emergency Response. Homeowners experiencing a sewer backup or detecting strong sewage odors should contact the Authority immediately before calling a private plumber. Inspectors are available around the clock to determine if the blockage is in the city’s main line or the homeowner’s private lateral. If the issue lies within the public infrastructure, the WSA will resolve it at no cost to the resident. The facility also houses the Industrial Pretreatment Program (IPP), which works with local businesses to ensure that harmful chemicals are not discharged into the sewer system, preserving the integrity of the treatment process.

Billing and Payments

While the Arthur W. Devine Boulevard location handles administrative matters, visitors should be aware that routine sewer bill payments are typically processed elsewhere. In-person payments for sewer usage and assessments are generally accepted at the City of Warwick Municipal Annex (65 Centerville Road) or the Tax Collector’s office. However, the WSA administrative staff can assist with complex billing disputes, assessment appeals, and setting up payment plans for new sewer construction assessments. For maximum convenience, the Authority strongly encourages customers to utilize the online payment portal (Citizen Self Service) to manage their accounts and view usage history without visiting a physical office.

Location and Accessibility

The WSA headquarters is located in an industrial zone just off Jefferson Boulevard, a major commercial artery running parallel to Interstate 95. The facility is situated at the end of Arthur W. Devine Boulevard, past the commercial warehouses. Visitors should be cautious of heavy trucks entering and exiting the treatment plant gates. Public access to the administrative building is through the main front entrance. The location is accessible via public transit, with RIPTA buses running along Jefferson Boulevard. The nearest bus stops are a short walk from the intersection of Jefferson and Arthur W. Devine, making it reachable for residents without private vehicles.

• Emergency: Call 401-739-4949 (Option 1) for backups or odors.
• Payments: Go to the Municipal Annex or pay online.
• Permits: Visit this office for connection permits and deduct meters.
• Meetings: Board and Finance Committee meetings are held here.