Florence Leaders Announce Major Expansion Plans for Water Treatment Plant to Enhance Capacity and Quality

Florence Leaders Unveil Exciting Expansion Plans for Water Treatment Plant

In a lively meeting at the Florence Water Surface Treatment Plant on Wednesday, local officials rolled out plans for a significant expansion of the facility. This comes as a breath of fresh air for residents concerned about the quality and capacity of the city’s water supply. The gathering attracted a crowd, with several local business owners joining in for a tour of the plant and a hearty discussion about improving water quality.

Doubling Down on Capacity

The highlight of the day was the announcement that the treatment plant aims to boost its capacity from ten million gallons per day to a whopping twenty million gallons per day! This ambitious plan will unfold in a two-step phase. Currently, the plant is operating at around six million gallons daily, and the upgrade is certainly timely, given the challenges faced in recent months.

Learning from the Past

Officials recalled the turmoil caused by Tropical Storm Debby in August, which inundated the plant with water loaded with organic materials, forcing it offline. During this trying time, community residents felt the impact first-hand and were eager to engage with officials about solutions. With that memory still fresh, the conversation naturally gravitated to how the city plans to mitigate such issues in the future.

Adding Staff for Success

Utilities Operation Director, Josh Whittington, explained how combating water issues doesn’t just require infrastructural changes but also staffing increases, stating, “We’re going to need to bring in at least six more employees for the expansion.” This personnel boost aims to ensure that the plant operates smoothly and effectively, especially as it scales up.

Addressing Murky Water Complaints

Another pressing topic was the ongoing complaints about murky water in certain neighborhoods. It turns out that the city’s ageing cast iron lines tend to rust, leading to small bits of iron creeping into the water. While officials assured residents that the water is safe to drink, they acknowledged the concern and committed to flushing the lines regularly to tackle the discoloration issues. It’s a balancing act, as the old water system brings its own set of challenges.

A Long-Term Vision

With plans stretching until 2035, officials made it clear that tackling the storm-water master plan won’t happen overnight. Whittington emphasized, “This is no quick process,” as leaders work diligently to manage both current problems and anticipate future challenges. They also revealed updates to their hydraulic model alongside infrastructure improvements, which will surely play a role in shaping a more robust water management system.

Keeping the Conversation Going

Understanding the importance of community trust, leaders stated they want to maintain an open line of communication with residents. They’re eager to avoid miscommunication should any water issues arise. To keep everyone in the loop, folks were encouraged to report any water-related problems or questions to the hotline at 843-665-3236.

Looking Ahead

As Florence sets its sights on a better and more efficient water management future, residents are invited to stay engaged and involved. Through dedicated efforts and community collaboration, Florence is working toward an even brighter, cleaner tomorrow. ABC15 promises to keep everyone posted as updates roll in, so keep your eyes peeled for more exciting news about this important project!