News Summary
The Laurens County Water and Sewer Commission has proposed a comprehensive $334 million infrastructure plan to accommodate projected growth and enhance water and sewer systems in the area through 2050. This plan, discussed in a recent meeting, emphasizes key improvements and funding strategies while ensuring that future infrastructure requirements meet the needs of an increasing population and urban development. Significant developments include the addition of new pipelines and wastewater facilities aimed at supporting Laurens County’s anticipated growth to 100,000-120,000 residents.
Laurens County Water and Sewer Commission Proposes $334 Million Infrastructure Plan
Laurens County, SC – The Laurens County Water and Sewer Commission (LCWSC) has outlined a comprehensive $334 million infrastructure plan aimed at addressing projected growth in the area through 2050. The plan was discussed and endorsed in a meeting held on July 29, 2025. This significant financial undertaking emphasizes the need for enhanced water and sewer systems to support the anticipated increase in population and urban development.
The commission’s executive director highlighted the critical nature of these improvements, noting that careful planning is necessary to facilitate economic development without straining current resources. LCWSC is set to implement measures that involve financing through capacity fees collected from developers, while customers will maintain the responsibility of paying standard water and sewer rates. Notably, property taxes will not be utilized for funding this infrastructure enhancement.
Projected Growth and Infrastructure Needs
LCWSC’s studies, spanning 360 pages, have thoroughly analyzed the county’s water and sewer requirements through 2050. As of now, the commission serves approximately 37,000 residents, with projections estimating a surge in population to around 62,000 based on new water installations. In conjunction with community growth, Laurens County’s total population, currently at 70,000, is expected to rise between 100,000 and 120,000 within the same timeframe.
The infrastructure plan features 34 proposed water capital projects, including the addition of 62 miles of piping and an increase in water capacity by 9 million gallons per day. For wastewater management, there are 27 proposed projects scheduled, including the establishment of a second wastewater treatment facility in Gray Court. The planned improvements reflect a significant shift, as LCWSC historically concentrated on water supply but is now prioritizing much-needed enhancements to its sewer infrastructure.
Funding and Collaborative Efforts
To date, the LCWSC has successfully secured approximately $45 million in investments towards the total projected costs. The commission is actively pursuing additional government grants and has also received funding through the USDA’s rural development program, which will assist in acquiring long-term loans for various infrastructure projects.
Throughout fiscal year 2025, LCWSC has completed 671 new water tap installations and 431 new sewer taps, signaling its commitment to meeting rising demands. Although many taps were installed in new subdivisions, a notable portion were also added outside these developments, with 246 taps specified for external projects. The goal is to enhance water capacity by 2.6 million gallons per day and sewer capacity by 4.1 million gallons per day.
Future Projections and Improvements
In light of the growing population and urbanization, LCWSC has updated its 20-year capital improvement plan, allocating $62 million specifically for sewer enhancements— a substantial increase from the $12 million designated in the previous plan. Furthermore, the commission is engaged in collaborations with the town of Gray Court for the provision of public sewer services and is working with other local sewer utilities to promote regional development.
The complete 360-page report detailing the infrastructure plans will be accessible on the LCWSC website. As Laurens County embarks on this critical phase of development, the proposed improvements are integral to ensuring a stable and reliable water and sewer system for future residents.
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Additional Resources
- GoLaurens: Laurens County Water and Sewer Study
- Wikipedia: Water Supply and Sanitation in the United States
- GoLaurens: LCWSC Prepares for Growth
- Google Search: Laurens County Infrastructure Plans
- Greenville Business Magazine: Upstate Infrastructure
- Google Scholar: Infrastructure Development in Laurens County
- Spectrum Local News: Laurens Water Tank
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Infrastructure Development
- 13 WMAZ: Laurens County FEMA Aid
- Google News: Laurens County Water Sewer
Author: STAFF HERE CLINTON
The CLINTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREClinton.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Clinton, Laurens County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Discovery, Clinton Community Day, and performances at the Whitten Center Amphitheater. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Laurens County Historical Society, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and education that power the local economy such as Milliken & Company and Presbyterian College. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
