The City of Calhoun has taken another step toward a major upgrade of its water and wastewater infrastructure, with city leaders authorizing the next phase of financing for improvements at two treatment facilities.
During its meeting this week, the Calhoun City Council unanimously approved a resolution allowing officials to seek proposals for the issuance of bonds that would provide up to $50 million in initial funding for the first phase of the project.
According to city officials, the funding will help launch a series of planned improvements to Calhoun’s water and sewer system, including upgrades at the Brittany Drive and Mauldin Road treatment plants.
Utilities Administrator Kyle Ellis said the bond proceeds would provide the first round of funding needed to begin the large-scale modification project.
The improvements follow action taken earlier this year when the city approved a design contract with Insite Engineering to develop plans for future upgrades at both facilities. The overall project is expected to unfold in three stages, beginning with preliminary engineering work, followed by an extensive design phase and then construction.
City officials say the upgrades are intended to ensure the treatment plants continue to meet regulatory standards while supporting long-term public health and environmental goals. A key focus of the project is addressing emerging concerns related to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS or “forever chemicals,” which have become a growing issue for water systems nationwide.
Once completed, the improvements are expected to strengthen Calhoun’s water infrastructure and help position the city to meet future treatment and compliance requirements.
