By Pat Loeb

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The Philadelphia Water Department is requesting an 11 percent rate increase.

Spokesperson Laura Copeland says the department needs the increase primarily to repair aging infrastructure.

"That has a real impact on our citizens. If you look at the water main breaks that we've had," said Copeland.

Copeland says the increase would come to about $8 a month for the typical customer. It would be phased in over two years, beginning in July.

She says the public will have a chance to challenge or support the request.

"The Water Rate Board will set a minimum of four hearings and once we have the public input hearings set, I encourage the public to attend and give testimony," said Copeland.

The hearings have not yet been scheduled.