Exciting Construction Begins in Charleston’s West Ashley Area
Charleston, S.C. is gearing up for some significant construction as the Charleston Water System prepares to tackle an important project aimed at enhancing wastewater management in the West Ashley region. Get ready for changes at the West Ashley Greenway entrance along Albemarle Road, where intensive construction is about to kick off!
What’s Happening?
As of now, construction has officially begun on a major sewer tunnel extension project that stretches from the wastewater treatment plant located on Plum Island all the way to Albemarle Road. With an impressive budget of $127 million, this initiative aims to provide a lasting solution to the challenges posed by existing sewer tunnels that have reached capacity due to increasing levels of wastewater coming in from various areas, including West Ashley, Johns Island, Hollywood, Ravenel, and the Town of Meggett.
Why the Rush?
Utility officials highlight the urgency of this project, especially in light of frequent sewer overflows in the West Ashley area—an issue that has been particularly troublesome during heavy rainstorms, such as those caused by Tropical Storm Debby back in August. Mike Saia, the Public Information Administrator for the Charleston Water System, emphasizes that the West Ashley Sewer Tunnel Extension Project is an essential move to alleviate these overflow problems.
What to Expect
The construction will involve significant digging activities, with plans to dig down 130 feet into the earth and create a tunnel approximately 20,000 feet long that will extend towards Savannah Highway. The tunneling work is expected to commence in April, following some initial preparation steps already underway at the Greenway trail. Residents and visitors may notice crews setting up fencing and gathering materials shortly.
Impact on the Community
During this construction period, the entrance to the Greenway path on Albemarle Road will be closed from September 23 to October 16. Fortunately, visitors can still access the trail from other entrances, such as Folly Road and Fenwick Drive, ensuring that the community can continue enjoying this beautiful space.
While construction activities will be taking place, utility officials are keen on keeping the disruptions to a minimum, stating that the nearest residence is about 400 feet away from the site. Saia assures residents that this project aims to transport wastewater safely and quietly, minimizing any inconveniences.
Staying in Touch
In anticipation of increased construction noise and temporary disruptions, the Charleston Water System has actively engaged with the community. Earlier this year, they went door-to-door and held meetings to inform residents about what’s to come. As construction ramps up, ongoing communication will remain a priority, allowing community members to stay updated and voice their concerns.
A Long-Term Solution
The construction is anticipated to take about three years, with completion expected by mid-2027. When finished, the new tunnel will not only help address urgent wastewater concerns now but also cater to the future needs of the growing communities it serves.
So, Charleston residents and visitors, while the construction may bring about some temporary challenges, remember that it’s all aimed at improving wastewater management and ensuring a cleaner, safer environment for everyone in the long run! And with dedicated communications throughout the process, the Charleston Water System is committed to keeping everyone in the loop.
