City of Columbia to Begin $69 Million Sewage System Upgrade
Massive Infrastructure Upgrade Announced
The city of Columbia, located in South Carolina, is gearing up to embark on an extensive upgrade of its sewage systems. With an investment of a whopping $96 million, the improvement plan is expected to be completed inside of two years.
This ambitious plan, which has been five years in the making, was put together with future development prospects in mind. The decision to kick-start this project was propelled by recent developments in Richland County’s northeastern region, including the high-end Scout Motors outlet.
The Details of the Plan
According to Assistant City Manager Clint Shealy, this upgrade will significantly expand the service volume for the Crane Creek community. At present, the sewage system operates at its maximum capacity for this region.
The project plan includes the construction of a new pump station as well as a storage tank. These new additions will be strategically located on a land parcel that sits just off Interstate 20 in the vicinity of Broad River Road.
Shealy highlights that the project aims to connect flows in an efficient manner, thereby facilitating seamless sewage management. “We can connect flows from both of those basins, equalize those flows before sending them down to our metropolitan wastewater treatment plant,” Shealy explained.
Affordable for Residents
What’s notable is that this project won’t cause a hike in water bills for Columbia’s residents. The funds allocated for this project are already in place, and won’t impact any future rate increases, as per Shealy.
How was the project funded?
The city has raised $69 million for this project. The funding includes a $35 million contribution from the Department of Commerce, $10 million of which has been used to extend wastewater services to Scout Motors. The remaining $25 million is supplemented by a $10 million grant from the South Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority, while the remaining $34 million has been raised through the city’s capital improvement plan.
Boost for Property Values
This project is not just about improving utilities. Shealy believes that it will contribute to enhancing property values in the long run. He adds that without this project, the city wouldn’t be able to service the Scout Motors plant or other upcoming developments in northeastern Richland County. “If we cannot provide sewer, then development slows down or stops completely,” he warns.
Nearing Commencement
The project is set to kick off within the next two weeks. This initiative reflects the city’s vision for the future, and will serve as the backbone for the city’s continued growth and development.