Florence, S.C. — The City of Florence is celebrating a new $2.3 million investment. Like many other cities in South Carolina, Florence historically relied on groundwater as a major resource for its drinking water supply.

According to the city, 37% of Florence’s water comes from the Pee Dee River, while the remaining 63% is sourced from groundwater. 

Due to the current rate of growth, these resources are in high demand. Local leaders say that with this investment, the city’s aging water distribution system will be upgraded and expanded.

The American Rescue Plan Act aided in infrastructure funding opportunities for many municipalities across the state. The city worked to create a plan which targets several key locations such as the GE plant, the Oakdale plant, the Pine Street plant, and the River Road plant. 

This initiative was a part of the SC Infrastructure Investment Program administered by the Rural Infrastructure Authority. After applying, the City of Florence secured $10 million in grant funding.

The city is focusing on adding new water lines in the western area of its system, which have multiple dead ends that are remnants of the old system. 

The estimated cost to restore all groundwater treatment plants is just under $40 million. Efforts are underway to secure additional funding and improve staffing.