2026 Water Meter Replacement Project

• Project value$3,038,791
• Project schedule2026
• Contractor nameUtility Metering Solutions (UMS)

The City of Kalamazoo is replacing more than 5,000 water meters in select service areas during 2026. The project continues the City’s long-term effort to modernize its water-meter system with reliable, advanced meters and maintain the equipment needed to safely serve customers.

Many of the locations included in this phase have older meter settings, including shutoff valves that may be missing, no longer function properly, or do not meet current standards. Along with installing new meters, the project will replace nonfunctioning or missing valves as needed at no cost to customers.

Modern meters help the City maintain accurate water-use records, support reliable utility billing, and allow Public Services to maintain water services more efficiently. Replacing outdated meter equipment and valves also helps reduce the likelihood that a future repair will disrupt service for a longer period.

The project is funded through the City’s Water Capital Improvement Program and is expected to continue through December 31, 2026.

Why This Work Is Needed

Water meters and the plumbing components around them wear over time. Replacing them proactively helps the City:

• Maintain accurate and dependable water-use readings
• Modernize aging water-service equipment
• Replace failed or missing meter shutoff valves before they create a larger service issue
• Meet current installation standards for water meters and associated equipment
• Protect reliable water service while minimizing the need for future disruptions

What To Expect

Work will begin in selected areas in September and continue in stages through the end of 2026. Customers will receive information from Utility Metering Solutions, LLC (UMS) before work is scheduled at their property.

UMS is a City contractor that previously completed water-meter replacement work in Kalamazoo. UMS vehicles will display company and City identification, and crew members will carry City-issued contractor badges.

There is no cost to customers for the meter replacement or for eligible valve work completed as part of the project.

If Your Meter is Inside Your Home

If UMS needs to enter your home to replace the meter, you will receive a letter with instructions to schedule an appointment. Appointments must be scheduled directly with UMS. The City cannot schedule appointments for customers.

Please make sure the meter and surrounding area are accessible before your appointment. If you have shutoff valves on either side of the meter, please check that they can be operated.

If UMS does not receive a response after the initial letter, it will send additional notices and may leave door hangers at the property. Please schedule promptly after receiving a notice to prevent further follow-up.

If Your Meter Is in an Outdoor Meter Pit

Customers whose meters are located in an outdoor meter pit generally do not need to schedule an appointment because UMS can complete the work without entering the home.

UMS crews will visit these properties directly. If no one is home, they can still replace the meter and will leave a door hanger letting the customer know the work has been completed.

During the Replacement

Most replacements are completed during one appointment. UMS will install the new meter, restore water service, and verify that water pressure has returned before leaving.

Some older meter settings need additional work because a shutoff valve is missing or does not operate properly. In those cases, UMS may coordinate with Helmus Plumbing Services, a licensed plumbing subcontractor, to replace the valve. If a temporary water shutoff is needed for valve work, it will be coordinated with the property owner.

Larger meters may require two visits: one to inspect the existing equipment and confirm needed parts, and another to complete the replacement.

After the Replacement

If you have a question or experience an issue after your meter has been replaced, first contact UMS using the phone number or scheduling information provided in your notice.

UMS is responsible for responding to reported leaks at the meter or service-control valve within 24 hours on weekdays. If UMS is unable to resolve the issue, please contact the City of Kalamazoo.

• UMS: (844) 741-6248
• City of Kalamazoo: (269) 337-8000.

Smart Meter Opt-Out

The City has a policy for customers who do not wish to use the radio-enabled meter-reading feature. Customers must contact the City to discuss their request. If approved, the meter will still be replaced, but an alternative reading device may be installed instead.

There are costs associated with this option. Review the Water Meter Opt-Out Policy(PDF, 248KB) for full details.

Project Areas

Meter replacements will occur in selected areas of Oshtemo, Kalamazoo, and Cooper Townships, as well as at some larger apartment complexes near East G Avenue and Sprinkle Road.

View the project area maps

Questions?

For scheduling, appointment changes, or questions about work at your property, contact UMS directly. For general questions about the City’s Water Meter Replacement Project, contact: City of Kalamazooat 311 or (269) 337-8000.