July 1 (Reuters) - Missouri American Water, a subsidiary

of American Water, said on Monday it has filed for a

rate request with the Missouri Public Service Commission to

cover $1.5 billion in investments to upgrade its water and

wastewater system infrastructure.

The projects, planned from January 2023 to May 2026, include

replacement of over 250 miles of aging water and wastewater pipe

to help reduce main breaks and sewer overflows.

If the proposal is approved, the average residential

customer consuming 5,475 gallons per month could face an $18

monthly increase in their water bill.

The proposal includes a provision for discounted rates to

residential customers below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level.

(Reporting by Pratyush Thakur in Bengaluru; Editing by Shinjini

Ganguli)