Under the Umbrella of Raleigh Water: Wastewater, Drinking Water and Stormwater

Raleigh Water is the umbrella that covers all the City of Raleigh’s water services: drinking water, wastewater and stormwater. Think of it as a band — stay with me here (yes, we hear you humming Rihanna’s “Umbrella” — ella, ella, eh, eh). Every day is a live performance, with each branch playing its own part but always in perfect harmony. 

Drinking Water — the lead vocals.

This is the voice everyone recognizes — the water flowing from your tap. It’s usually the first thing you think about when you hear “water service,” and the first thing you’d notice if it stopped. Behind that familiar melody are hundreds of people working from the same “lyrics”: treating water and maintaining the pipes that carry it to you efficiently. 

Wastewater — the drums.

Steady. Reliable. Always on beat. “Flush and forget” is how many people think of wastewater — and honestly, that’s a compliment. It means Raleigh Water Wastewater staff are doing their jobs without a missed note. Day in and day out, they collect, maintain and repair sewer pipes, clean and return water to nature, keeping the rhythm that lets the rest of the band play on. 

Stormwater — the guitar.

Sometimes it strums gently, like an acoustic on a quiet ballad. Other times, it thunders with an electric solo. Raleigh Stormwater staff manages stormwater runoff that flows off streets, sidewalks, roofs, and other hard surfaces, prevents flooding throughout the city, and shields local streams, creeks, and rivers from pollution. It’s the part of the performance that can change with the “weather,” adding depth and drama to the set. 

Together, Raleigh Water’s three “band members” turn everyday work into a citywide concert — safe water to drink, a clean environment, and a protected community.

So, in the words of Ms. Rihanna: “You can stand under my umbrella … ella, ella, eh, eh.” Here’s a standing ovation for the crews keeping the music playing — rain or shine.