Lake Murray Water Plant Expansion in Lexington, S.C. Surpasses Expectations with Innovative Technology and Increased Capacity

Exciting Developments in Lexington, S.C.: Lake Murray Water Plant Expansion

Lexington, S.C. is buzzing with excitement as the highly anticipated Lake Murray water plant expansion project continues to make strides. After a lengthy eight-year journey, this project is set to tackle some key issues related to water quality and capacity for the residents of Lexington County. Let’s dive into the details and see what this means for the community.

Progress Ahead of Schedule

During a special council meeting in West Columbia, residents learned that the expansion project is moving along faster than expected. Andy Zaengle, the director of engineering and water plants, shared some encouraging updates with the city council. The original master plan kicked off back in 2016, aiming to boost the water treatment plant’s capacity, and over the years, it has evolved to incorporate cutting-edge technology aimed at improving both the taste and odor of the county’s water.

The construction officially began in April 2023, and Zaengle reported that the project is already 30% complete. This is fantastic news for the citizens who rely on the plant as their primary source of drinking water!

Capacity Expansion and Budget Thoughts

Currently, the Lake Murray water plant has the capacity to treat 27 million gallons of water each day. With the ongoing expansion, that capacity will soar to 36 million gallons daily! This means a much more reliable water supply for everyone living in Lexington County. The total budget for this ambitious project is set at an estimated $86 million, which is a considerable investment for the community, but one that should pay off in spades.

Zaengle assured residents that the funding for this project will come from several sources, including bond funds. Importantly, this expansion project is not expected to have any direct impact on customers’ water bills. That’s definitely music to local ears!

Innovative Technology for Taste and Odor

A significant highlight of the project is the introduction of ozone technology, which will specifically target odor and taste issues that many residents have raised in the past. With a dedicated budget of $40 million for this component alone, the city is determined to ensure that its water is not just sufficient in quantity but also in quality.

Zaengle explained that ozone technology works by oxidizing organic compounds found in the water, effectively removing them and improving the overall taste. This will mean that customers can enjoy their sweet tea and other beverages without any unpleasant surprises. “Addressing taste and odor really comes from our customers,” Zaengle said. “They want to drink their water and not have that smell when they come out of the shower.”

Minimal Visual Impact

For those worried about how the project will change the landscape, the good news is that not much will visually alter the plant. Most of the expansion will occur underground, which means the site will maintain much of its original look. Zaengle reassured attendees by saying, “If you were to walk from the beginning to end, you’ll notice that there is a difference, but it’s not going to end up being except for those in part really that there is a whole new set of structures out here that weren’t here before.”

Looking Ahead

The entire expansion project is anticipated to wrap up by 2027, so there’s a lot to look forward to in the coming years. This expansion not only addresses immediate concerns but also prepares the city for future growth. Thanks to the efforts of the city council and the engineering team, residents of Lexington can continue to count on clean, quality water for years to come!

Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting project unfolds!