Funding Secured for Lake City Downtown Drainage Project

Funding Secured for Lake City Downtown Drainage Project

Lake City, a small South Carolina community prone to flooding issues, has just received a grant worth a substantial $13.5 million for a crucial drainage project in the heart of its downtown area. This generous award from the U.S. Economic Development Administration is underpinning what’s called the “Acline Drainage project”.

Why It’s Crucial

This project primarily aims to fortify the city’s currently “inadequate storm drainage system” and, in a big first, install a proper drainage system downtown — something the region has, until now, not had. With this major development, city officials anticipate a significant reduction in structural and economic damages to local businesses, residences, and public infrastructure.

Currently, the region’s drainage issues are having a disastrous impact on the economy, and the timely improvements this project brings will directly address and alleviate these concerns.

Voices of Support

Reflecting on the pivotal role this project plays, distinguished U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn expressed, “South Carolina is all too familiar with the devastating impacts of climate change on local homes and businesses. This $13.5 million grant is a crucial investment in Lake City’s weather resilience and economic stability. I applaud the Biden-Harris administration for their continued efforts to not only protect our local businesses but also ensure a safer and more sustainable future for all.”

In similar spirits, Lake City’s Mayor Yamekia Robinson expressed immense gratitude for the colossal effort involved in securing this grant, and thanked everyone who had a role to play in this achievement — city staff, partners, and everybody instrumental in the successful fruition of the project. Mayor Robinson further emphasized that the ultimate goal of this initiative is to safeguard the homes, businesses, and public spaces of Lake City.

The Road Ahead

The project will be carried out at the right-of-way of North Acline Avenue, adjacent to the railroad, and within the right-of-way for various streets extending west of Acline Avenue including Lee Street, Calhoun Street, Taylor Street, Acline Avenue, and others.

For now, specific details regarding the project’s timeline and official kick-off date remain unannounced, but the city reassures that these details will be revealed soon enough. The city will benefit from the EDA funds, alongside a Rural Infrastructure Authority and $1M forgivable loan.

City Administrator William Hall voiced his gratitude towards all those who extended their support and repeated his convictions on how this vital boost from EDA will benefit the city and its residents immensely.