Savannah Plans Major Water Capacity Expansion to Accommodate Future Growth

Savannah Prepares for Water Capacity Expansion

Savannah is gearing up for an exciting challenge over the next twenty years as it aims to expand its drinking-water capacity by a whopping 72%. This ambitious plan is in response to projected residential and industrial growth that is expected to change the face of the city. City Manager Jay Melder recently shared that the cost for this significant upgrade to the Industrial and Domestic Water Treatment Plant (I&D) is anticipated to reach around $500 million.

Who’s Picking Up the Tab?

One of the most reassuring aspects of this whole expansion plan is that the cost burden will primarily fall on large industrial users, rather than the everyday residential and commercial customers. This means that Savannahians can breathe a little easier, knowing that their water bills shouldn’t see a dramatic spike. Melder explained, “Since the beginning of the plant (in 1947), their rates have been based off of what we’ve needed to do to upgrade the I&D facility.” This indicates a thoughtful strategy to ensure that the average household won’t bear the full weight of this investment.

A Natural Source of Refreshment

Currently, Savannah draws about 20 million gallons from the underground Floridan Aquifer daily. This aquifer is renowned for being one of the world’s cleanest natural water sources. The rest of the city’s supply comes from a tributary of the Savannah River, which requires extensive and costly treatment to make it safe for drinking and daily use. This transition to a goal of 100 million gallons per day will inevitably come with increased treatment costs, especially since groundwater from the aquifer needs much less treatment, as it is naturally filtered by Mother Nature.

Future Concerns

Adding a layer of complexity to Savannah’s water supply situation, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division is set to cut Savannah’s allowable daily withdrawals from the aquifer to 18 million gallons per day starting in 2025. This move is aimed at reducing saltwater intrusion, especially near Hilton Head Island. So as plans roll out, Savannah’s options for sourcing water will become a hot topic.

What’s Next on the Agenda?

Under preliminary plans presented recently, Savannah is looking to invest approximately $85 million in improvements at the I&D plant, which would add an additional 13 million gallons per day of capacity within two years. The long-term goal of reaching 100 million gallons daily to accommodate the significant growth projected over the next 15 to 20 years is ambitious. Notably, this expansion is anticipated to support major developments, including the Hyundai Motor Company’s massive new facility in Bryan County.

Hyundai’s Influence

Hyundai is planning to need around 4 million gallons per day once its facilities are operating at full capacity. In collaboration with Bryan and Bulloch Counties, the state is considering permits for new wells that will pull from the Floridan Aquifer to support this development. However, there is stipulation that these counties must create plans to eventually replace the aquifer withdrawals with alternative water sources.

Planning Ahead

Officials working with Hyundai express optimism that Savannah’s I&D plant will be part of the solution to this water supply challenge. The price tag for establishing a connection may rise to roughly $1 billion, confirming the scale of what Savannah is looking to secure for its future growth.

Future-Proofing Savannah

Mayor Van Johnson highlighted the importance of addressing these water needs sooner rather than later, explaining that ignoring these challenges could lead to significantly higher costs down the line. “We’ve seen examples around the country that when people kick the can down the road, it comes to a day that you can’t kick it anymore,” he said. This sentiment brings a focus on preemptive action, ensuring the city is not left scrambling when growth inevitably surges.

What Lies Ahead?

As Savannah embarks on this vital journey to enhance its drinking-water capacity, the upcoming steps will include devising a solid financial plan for the investment in the I&D plant improvements, including reviewing rates. Ensuring Savannah has a reliable water supply for its residents and industries is a priority that may just shape the city’s future.