Danville evaluates sewer capacity for Accident mixed use development plans

The Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors held a work session on May 23, 2025, focusing on the evaluation and future planning of the county's wastewater system. The meeting highlighted the assessment of existing sewer infrastructure and projected needs due to upcoming developments.

Key discussions centered on the capacity of current gravity sewers, pump stations, and force mains. The evaluation revealed that the existing systems are functioning well, with minimal impact from rainfall events on their operation. This positive assessment sets the stage for future developments, particularly the proposed Accident mixed-use development, which includes both commercial and residential phases.

The proposed development is expected to unfold in five phases, with the second phase featuring commercial elements such as a grocery store, retail spaces, and a senior living facility. To project future sewer flows from this development, the county utilized recommendations from the Virginia Department of Health and data from similar regions. The projections indicate a need for significant upgrades to the sewer system to accommodate the anticipated growth.

Three alternatives for improving the sewer infrastructure were presented. The first option involves constructing a gravity sewer extending to the Accident development, which is deemed the most sustainable long-term solution. However, it would require immediate action due to the timeline of the development. The second alternative proposes a hybrid approach, combining an on-site pump station with a gravity sewer, allowing for phased implementation. The third option, which involves extensive upgrades to existing infrastructure, was quickly dismissed due to its high cost and complexity.

The estimated costs for these alternatives range from approximately $17.7 million to just under $21 million, with the hybrid option being recommended for its balance of immediate needs and future growth potential. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the necessity of addressing the wastewater system's capacity to support the county's development goals. Further discussions and decisions will be necessary as the county moves forward with these plans.