Florence Commits $270 Million to Water and Sewer System Expansion

Florence city officials have given the go-ahead for a substantial $270 million investment intended to broaden its water and sewer networks to accommodate the city’s ongoing growth. Despite concerns about rising construction costs, city leaders approve this necessary step to ensure the city’s infrastructure can keep pace with increasing demand.

An Investment for the Future

The project was unanimously approved at a recent city council meeting, where council members underscored the importance of these systemic upgrades. Although Councilmember Bryan Braddock was absent, the resolution to issue the necessary bond for the project passed with six votes in favor.

This major undertaking has been broken down into three phrases, with the current $270 million allocation forming the second phase. The budget will extend existing surface water and wastewater treatment plants and divert the sewer pipes currently traversing beneath Jeffries Creek, among other significant improvements.

“Expanding our system will allow us to keep up with the demand,” remarked Interim City Manager Scotty Davis, noting that while this development won’t immediately solve some ongoing maintenance challenges, it will prepare the city for more robust growth in the next few decades.

Tackling Expansion Amid Rising Costs

The city council had already adjusted utility rates, anticipating an increase of about 9-10% annually for the next several years. Although no additional increases were approved at the recent meeting, the possibility of future hikes remains, depending on the final costs of the project.

The financial burden of these upgrades is driven by surging construction costs. As of July, the estimated total cost of the project leaped from $537 million to $676 million, substantially raising the financial stakes for the city. However, city leaders and financial advisers have emphasized these numbers are mere estimates and the actual costs could be lower or higher.

Preparing for the Influx

Anticipating regional growth, Florence city officials have begun preparing for an influx of new residents drawn by well-paid jobs in the upcoming AESC electric vehicle battery factory. As more businesses follow suit, the pressure on the city’s water and sewer systems is predicted to pile up. The city looks forward to accommodating this population growth without faltering in its water and sewer services.

“We are dedicated to keeping Florence ahead of this growth,” said Councilmember Chaquez McCall when speaking about the large-scale expansion in the infrastructure sector. As projected by Davis, nearly 5,000 new homes are already sanctioned for construction in the city, signaling imminent residential growth.

For the moment, the city plans to cover these massive budget costs with the assistance of a $270 million bond, with a third still in preparation. Outside funding is also being ardently sought, and the city expects to secure at least $15 million in grants. However, officials have voiced a certain reluctance to further burden taxpayers, making this a less preferred option.

The proposal awaits another round of city council votes in September.