Stormwater project to start at Station 28½; residents urged they will be notified of closures and work

Town Administrator Joe Henderson and staff outlined imminent stormwater work funded through the SCIIP grant that will begin at Station 28½ and later move to Station 31.

Mr. Henderson said early work includes clearing the outfall and dropping well points to de-water the area in preparation for pipe installation. Two weeks after initial clearing, crews will begin work at Station 31, and cranes will be required to lift and place pipe sections; staff warned there will be temporary street and driveway closures during some operations. Administrators said nearby residents will be alerted in advance about road closures, changes to traffic patterns, and any work to driveways or mailboxes.

During public comment, resident Ralph Byers asked that homeowners be notified when the stormwater construction begins because the end of Middle Street could be temporarily cut off and there is a risk of utility lines being affected during excavation. Staff responded that nearby residents will receive notifications as the work schedule is finalized.

Separately, staff noted a main break near Stith Park had required sidewalk repairs and praised Water & Sewer staff for a quick response. The Council also discussed whether to participate in an SC wastewater research sampling program over the next two years; that topic will be considered at a future Water & Sewer Committee meeting.

Next steps: Clearing at Station 28½ is underway as part of SCIIP grant work; staff to provide direct notifications to affected residents and to post schedules for crane and pipe work ahead of street closures.