Effingham County secures $320M for new independent water system

The Town Hall meeting for District 4 in Effingham County on May 12, 2025, focused on significant developments regarding the county's water system. The state has awarded Effingham County approximately $320 million to establish an independent water supply, reducing reliance on the City of Savannah. This initiative aims to enhance water availability for both residential and industrial needs in the region.

The project will be executed in two phases. The first phase involves connecting the existing water system to Interstate 16, allowing the Honey Plant to transition from using groundwater from the Florida aquifer to a more sustainable water source. This change is expected to alleviate concerns about the impact of aquifer depletion on agricultural areas.

The second phase is particularly noteworthy, as it includes the construction of a new water intake facility located eight miles upriver from the current site. This facility will enable the county to treat and sell its own water, rather than purchasing it from Savannah. The funding for this project comes from a combination of a direct grant and a favorable loan, with no tax dollars being used. Instead, costs will be covered through fees from new customers.

Additionally, the meeting addressed issues related to septic systems in the area. The county plans to improve its wastewater treatment processes, allowing for high-quality effluent to be used for irrigation in local neighborhoods. This initiative aims to resolve challenges faced by septic haulers and enhance overall water management in the region.

Overall, these developments represent a significant investment in Effingham County's infrastructure, promising to stabilize water costs and improve resource management for residents and businesses alike.