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County sewer study recommends phased $220 million, 30-year plan to address wet-weather overflows
Summary
Berkeley County officials reviewed a capacity remediation plan prepared by EADS that estimates up to $220 million in improvements over 30 years to address overflow and aging pipes; officials said work will be phased and is subject to EPA and DEP approvals.
Commissioner Kelly reported on a capacity remedial measures plan for Berkeley County’s sewer district during the Jan. 9 meeting, saying consultants estimate the work could reach $220 million and be phased over 30 years.
“The projected cost could be as much as $220,000,000. And if you divide that into 30 years, that’s a $7,000,000 commitment,” Commissioner Kelly said, describing a plan by EADS group of Johnstown, Pennsylvania. Kelly told the commission the system includes more than 400,000 feet of piping and has been in place about 30 years.
The study identifies wet-weather overflows in certain locations, upgrades to treatment plants and replacement or enlargement of older mains as likely needs. Kelly cited the Hedgesville plant and pump stations as places that have struggled during multi-day rain events, although recent station upgrades have improved performance in some areas.
County officials said some problems stem from private connections and sump pumps that route warm or storm water into the sanitary system, which increases flows during rain events. Kelly said the county will submit the plan to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and seek permit determinations from the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection; officials said answers on individual MS4 permits are expected in the coming months.
No formal action was taken; commissioners discussed funding challenges and noted funding will need to be phased and pursued over time if EPA and DEP approvals align with the plan’s timing.
