Charleston Co. Outlines 5-Year Plan to Improve Bees Ferry Landfill
Charleston County is proactively addressing residents’ concerns and demands with regards to garbage and solid waste management with the new Environmental Management Capital Improvement Plan, which incorporates a notable $24 million expansion to the Charleston County Landfill on Bees Ferry Road.
Five-Year Improvement Plan for Extended Landfill Life
The Charleston County Finance Committee gave their approval for a well-crafted five-year improvement plan on Thursday with the goal of increasing the lifespan of the landfill. In line with the approved plan, the County is preparing to construct cells three and six on the Bees Ferry landfill this year. These cells or sections of the landfill have already been issued permits by the Department of Health and Environmental Control to accept municipal waste.
Under the encompassing budget of $24 million, the construction slated for the upcoming months will involve grading the site, setting up pipes and pumps, improving lighting, installing fences, and implementing safety measures to ideally contain the area. Commissioners of Public Works will treat the site before it is officially brought online.
Addressing Concerns about Birds and Fragrance
Deputy County Administrator for Public Services, Steve Thigpen, assures Charleston County residents that strategies have been put in place to mitigate bird-related issues and unpleasant odors in the area. They have erected installation of a product named ‘Bird Buffers’, which disperses a harmless grape seed extract that discourages bird presence in the vicinity. Measures have also been taken to position the bird deterrents adjacent to the property line, away from residential homes.
A perimeter misting system is also under consideration to help control the site’s odor. Furthermore, the county intends to allocate funds to set up a methane gas collection system. This system will capture the gaseous byproduct produced within the landfill, which will subsequently be treated and converted into useful resources such as natural gas or electricity.
Beneficial for the Entire County
Charleston County Council member, Brantley Moody, representing District 7, expressed enthusiasm regarding the sweeping improvement plans. “This is much bigger than just West Ashley; this initiative benefits the entire county. The landfill, though commonly out of sight and out of mind, is one of the more critical assets we have in Charleston County,” Moody stated.
In the forthcoming steps, officials have planned to release a request for proposals for the construction and execution of the methane gas capture and conversion system.
In the grand scope of things, this comprehensive plan proves to be a methodical approach to address various pressing concerns around the landfill. It testifies to Charleston County’s active efforts to reiterate its commitment to effective solid waste management.
