For Immediate Release – June 4, 2026
Progress Update on Utility Improvements
Media Contacts:
Scotty Davis, City Manager – 843-665-3113 or sdavis@cityofflorencesc.gov
Clint Moore, Assistant City Manager – 843-665-2047 or cmoore@cityofflorencesc.gov
Michael Hemingway, Utility Planning & Economic Development Director - 843-665-3236 or mhemingway@cityofflorencesc.gov
FLORENCE, SC- The City of Florence is moving forward with its multi-year effort to improve water and sewer utility infrastructure, and advance storm drainage system improvements. From completed project upgrades to projects under construction and in the planning stages, the city is making steady strides and is committed to improving system capacity and reliability while regaining the trust and confidence of our customers.
Key Project Highlights:
Completed:
By elevating manholes, this project helps reduce the risk of future sanitary sewer overflows in this area. It also marks the first step toward a larger plan to install a new sewer interceptor, which will increase system capacity, address stormwater infiltration, and support the city’s future growth. (Project Completion Spring 2026)
This project included connecting water lines to improve flow capacity for fire protection, water quality, and system pressure. Construction of approximately 30,000 linear feet (LF) of new 6-inch and 12-inch water lines has been completed. (Project Completion Winter 2026)
Currently Under Construction:
Contractors and operators have completed the filter high-rating study and submitted to the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) to increase water production capacity to 15 million gallons per day (MGD) from the current permitted 10 MGD. This project will allow better service for customers and support future growth by strengthening the facility’s resilience and sustainability, extending its useful life by an estimated 20 years and improving overall operational efficiency through critical infrastructure upgrades. (Project Completion 2029)
This project includes construction of 15,700 LF of a new 30” water line. The improvement expands the service area and extends the reach of the Pee Dee Surface Water Treatment Plant, increasing system capacity, enhancing water distribution, and supporting improved water quality for the system. (Project Completion Summer 2026)
The contractor is continuing site demolition, construction, and installation of new infrastructure on the plant and off-site well locations in support of this capital rehabilitation project. This project will expand the plant’s overall impact by improving water quality, system capacity and reliability. (Project Completion Fall 2026)
The contractor is currently working on installation of storm drainage along McQueen St. Installation of a major crossing on Coit Street, and work on the Cedar and McQueen intersection began in May. These storm system upgrades will aid in slowing runoff while providing natural filtration before runoff reaches waterways and will also reduce flooding in the area. (Completion Fall 2026)
Debris and sediment removal of existing infrastructure is completed, and new infrastructure is currently being installed that will increase runoff capacity and improve performance during heavy rainfall events. (Completion Fall 2026)
Projects in Planning Stages:
This project is currently in the design phase. A public meeting was announced on May 8th inviting all interested properties to attend and hear an overview of Phase I of the project and its anticipated impact, on Monday, June 8th from 5:30pm – 7:00pm in City Council Chambers, at the City Center, 324 W. Evans Street. Attendees will have the opportunity to speak directly with the contractor, CDM Smith, and city staff. (Completion for Phase I - East Section, Winter 2028 and Phase II - Middle South Section, Fall 2029)
Building on this initiative, the City of Florence is launching the RISE Program (Resilient Infrastructure and System Enhancements) that will bring a unified vision and identity to ongoing investments in water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure. Guided by the principles “Investing Today. Building Tomorrow. Serving our community,” the RISE Program reflects a long-term commitment to reliability, resilience, and improved service delivery for our customers.
Projects will be color-coded by utility service – blue for water, dark green for stormwater, and light green for sewer – making it easier to identify efforts and illustrate the program’s scope.
“We are committed to keeping customers informed as projects progress”, said City Manager, Scotty Davis. “Information about the RISE Program’s key projects – including updates, timelines, and project details will be shared through a variety of outreach channels. Together, these efforts underscore the City’s commitment to transparency and building a stronger, more resilient community.”
For more details, and a more comprehensive list of projects, please visit the Utilities page on the City of Florence website @ https://www.cityofflorencesc.gov/rise.