Butner, NC. February 28, 2025 — The South Granville Water and Sewer Authority's executive team met with Representative Bryan Cohn, and Senator Terrence Everett on February 27th, 2025. A discussion was held regarding the ongoing efforts to modernize and expand southern Granville County's water and sewer infrastructure. Executive Director Scott N. Schroyer and Assistant Executive Director Chris Summerlin detailed work being conducted to address aging infrastructure, the I-85 SSI Project, PFAS contamination, and water quality concerns.
The aging infrastructure, particularly the 80 year old water treatment plant, bore the weight of the conversation. While a major upgrade in 2022 helped improve historic water quality challenges, growing concern over the plant’s viability and longevity will be addressed with the projects in motion.
The Authority is exploring the possibility of building a new plant or regionalizing with neighboring utilities to ensure the sustainability.
PFAS contamination was another hot topic discussed during the meeting.
SGWASA is actively working to remove the contaminants deposited into the water supply before the EPA’s 2029 deadline. With a projected cost of $26 million, the team is applying for grants to offset the PFAS mitigation bill; but is also exploring additional loan options to secure funding.
Director Schroyer expressed frustration behind PFAS mitigation efforts not receiving adequate levels of support. SGWASA remains committed to pursuing every available funding avenue; and is engaged in class action lawsuits against chemical companies believed to be responsible for the contamination.
The South Granville Water & Sewer Authority’s Board and Executive team appreciate the ongoing collaborative efforts with state legislators to secure vital funding for the current and approaching projects. Many of the Authority's active Capital Improvement Projects were initiated with the funding advocacy of Representative Frank Sossamon and Representative Matthew Winslow. The Authority has secured a $5 million grant and $500,000 state grant, so far.
Director Schroyer informed attendees that the total cost of the I-85 Sanitary Sewer Improvement project has potential to reach $26 million, which was not anticipated.
Collaboration is at the heart of SGWASA’s strategy for upgrading southern Granville County’s water and sewer systems. Throughout Thursday's meeting, both Senator Everett and Representative Cohn offered valuable insights into potential funding sources and plans to discuss further funding opportunities with SGWASA.
By aligning efforts with state and federal partners, SGWASA is strategically preparing to address both current and future infrastructure challenges proactively, ensuring that solutions are implemented efficiently while minimizing the financial impact on residents within the Authority's service area.
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Issued 2/28/25 by the South Granville Water and Sewer Authority
Krystle Lee, PIO/Board Secretary/Webmaster
(919) 575-3367