Ensuring a Sustainable Future in Georgia
Discover how the new Effingham County Water System is transforming our community with clean, reliable, and sustainable water solutions, supporting growth and environmental stewardship.
Your Questions Answered About the New Water System
When Will The New Water System Be Operational?
The system is expected to go online in 2030. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026, with phased progress leading up to full operation.
Where Will The Water Be Sourced From?
Water will be sourced from the Savannah River by a state-of-the-art intake, treated at a new, modern water treatment plant, and distributed through a newly constructed pipeline system that will follow a previously disturbed existing easement.
How Will Residents Access This Water?
Residents will continue to receive water through Effingham County Water & Sewer. The new system will supply water at a regional level, improving the overall quality and reliability of the existing distribution systems.
There will be no action required for most residents to “switch” to the new supply.
Will My Water Bill Increase?
The goal of this project is to provide long-term cost stability and efficiency.
While infrastructure investments can influence rates over time, the project is designed to:
- Minimize future increased costs.
- Reduce reliance on less sustainable or more expensive sources; and
- Deliver long-term savings through efficiency and scale.
Any rate adjustments would be determined by local utilities, not directly by the project itself.
Why Is This Project Needed Now?
Effingham County is becoming an epicenter of growth and investment, and it is important that we deliver the highest quality resources for current and future generations. This water system will deliver the cleanest water in the state of Georgia to the people of Effingham County, while also being able to:
- Meet future demand from new residents and businesses.
- Ensure reliability during droughts or emergencies; and
- Support economic development, including major projects in the region.
Is This Environmentally Responsible?
Yes. Environmental protection is a core priority of this project and has been from the start. This project will take a significant amount of stress off the Floridan Aquifer. Additionally, most construction is occurring on existing easements and sustainably maintained areas, minimizing any potential impact to wildlife. The system is designed to:
- Use sustainable sourcing from the Savannah River.
- Meet or exceed all state and federal existing or future environmental standards; and
- Improve overall water system efficiency and conservation efforts in the area.
Who Is Involved In The Project?
This is a regional collaboration involving:
- Effingham County
- City of Savannah
- Bryan County
- Georgia Water Council
- EPD
- Georgia State Governor’s Office and Legislature
- Gov. Brian Kemp
- Speaker of the House Jon Burns
This cooperative approach ensures a cost-effective and forward-looking solution for all communities involved.
Will Construction Impact Us?
Construction will primarily occur along designated pipeline routes and project sites. Efforts are being made to:
- Minimize disruptions.
- Will follow a previously disturbed existing easement.
- Coordinate with property owners; and
- Maintain safe and efficient construction practices.
The Effingham County Water System represents a once-in-a-generation investment in infrastructure that will serve both current and future residents alike.
We look forward to sharing additional updates on this project in the future.
Commitment to Environmental Responsibility
The Effingham County Water System is dedicated to protecting our natural resources through sustainable practices. By sourcing water from the Savannah River and minimizing impact on the Floridan Aquifer, we ensure a balanced approach to water management. Our infrastructure is designed to meet or exceed environmental standards, promoting conservation and efficiency across the region.
Sustainable Sourcing
Our water sourcing strategy focuses on sustainability, utilizing the Savannah River to reduce pressure on local aquifers and ensure a reliable water supply for future generations.
Infrastructure Efficiency
The new infrastructure is engineered to maximize efficiency, reducing waste and enhancing the overall performance of the water system.
Community Collaboration
Financial Overview
Understanding the Cost Implications
The new water system project is designed to deliver long-term financial benefits to residents. By leveraging state and local funding, we ensure that there will be no tax increases associated with the construction and development of this vital infrastructure.
Residents can expect cost savings over time due to the system’s efficiency and reduced reliance on more expensive water sources. This project is a testament to our commitment to providing affordable, high-quality water services.
While infrastructure investments are significant, the strategic planning and collaboration involved have minimized costs, making this project a financially sound investment for the future of Effingham County.
Collaborative Efforts
Stay Informed About Our Future Water Resources
Join us in shaping the future of Effingham County by staying informed about the new water system. This initiative is crucial for ensuring clean, reliable, and sustainable water for our community. We encourage you to reach out with any questions or for more information on how this project will benefit you and your family.