What is the agreement between Charleston Water System and Charleston Waterkeeper about?

The agreement addresses ongoing sanitary sewer overflow (SSO) problems in West Ashley.

How long did it take to reach this agreement?

The agreement was reached after two years of discussions.

What led to this agreement?

Charleston Waterkeeper sent Charleston Water System a notice of intent to sue in 2024 under the federal Clean Water Act to address sewage overflows, primarily in the former St. Andrews Public Service District wastewater collection system.

What are the Charleston Water System's commitments under this agreement?

The Charleston Water System committed to continuing and expediting planned inspections, repairs, and replacements to the sewer system to reduce overflow events in West Ashley according to agreed-upon deadlines; carrying out more rigorous pipe inspections where necessary in West Ashley; sending Charleston Waterkeeper, and making publicly available, quarterly reports on the progress of their pipe inspection and repair program in West Ashley; and deploying a customer notification system that alerts customers about sewage overflow events in their area.

What additional investments has Charleston Water System made in West Ashley's sewer infrastructure?

Charleston Water System has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in West Ashley and the former St. Andrews PSD sewer system, including closing two failed wastewater treatment plants, eliminating illegal sewer bypasses, and implementing a nationally recognized inflow/infiltration (I/I) reduction program that has eliminated 5 million gallons of I/I per year. The CEO has stated they will spend nearly $200 million in the next decade to resolve lingering sewer overflow issues from heavy rain events. A wastewater master plan includes a $250 million investment in new tunnels, key pump stations, and other renewal/replacement projects.

Is there a program to assist homeowners with sewer line replacements?

Yes, Charleston Water System committed to recommending funding for a newly established sewer lateral line replacement grant program for homeowners with vitrified clay pipe sewer line connections, offering defined reimbursement for replacements, with recommended funding of $50,000 annually for the next five years.

February 4, 2026

Charleston Water System Reinforces West Ashley Infrastructure

Charleston, SC, February 4, 2026

The Charleston Water System has entered a landmark agreement with Charleston Waterkeeper to tackle sanitary sewer overflow issues in West Ashley. This proactive partnership aims to enhance local infrastructure and protect the environment, demonstrating collaborative problem-solving to bolster economic growth and community well-being. The agreement outlines commitments for inspections, repairs, and a system for notifying residents about sewer overflow events, all contributing to a more resilient future for Charleston.

Charleston, SC

Charleston Water System Forges Proactive Agreement to Bolster West Ashley’s Infrastructure

A recent landmark agreement between the Charleston Water System and Charleston Waterkeeper marks a significant step forward in addressing long-standing sanitary sewer overflow challenges in West Ashley. This collaborative effort underscores a commitment to safeguarding our local environment and ensuring robust infrastructure for the region’s continued prosperity.

Charleston’s thriving economy and vibrant communities depend on reliable infrastructure, a principle consistently championed by local leaders and entrepreneurs. The recent accord, reached after two years of dedicated discussions, exemplifies a proactive approach to environmental stewardship coupled with practical, long-term solutions. It highlights how engaged organizations and essential public services can work together to tackle complex issues, ultimately fostering a stronger foundation for Lowcountry economic growth and the quality of life enjoyed by its residents. This commitment to improvement and resilience is a testament to Charleston’s spirit of innovation and community-focused problem-solving.

For decades, communities across the nation have grappled with the intricacies of aging infrastructure, and Charleston is no exception. However, rather than simply reacting to challenges, this agreement showcases a determined push towards sustainable solutions. It aligns with the ethos of smart governance and responsible investment, crucial for sustaining the dynamism of Charleston SC business and the well-being of its citizens. This forward-thinking partnership demonstrates that persistent challenges can be overcome through diligent planning and a shared vision for a cleaner, healthier, and more economically secure future.

Addressing Historical Infrastructure Deficiencies

The roots of West Ashley’s sanitary sewer overflow (SSO) challenges trace back decades. The Charleston Water System (CWS) inherited much of these issues when it took over the former St. Andrews Public Service District wastewater collection system in 1995. This transition occurred under a South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (now SCDES) consent decree, necessitated by years of improper design, installation, and mismanagement within the previous system. This historical context is vital for understanding the scale of the task CWS has undertaken.

Sanitary sewer overflows occur when untreated or partially treated sewage is discharged into streets, nearby marshes, and rivers. These events pose risks to public health and the environment. West Ashley has been identified as a particularly impacted area, a hotspot for these overflows. Recognizing this, Charleston Waterkeeper initiated discussions by sending CWS a notice of intent to sue in 2024 under the federal Clean Water Act, focusing on these recurring issues. This action propelled the structured negotiations that led to the current agreement, emphasizing the importance of both regulatory oversight and collaborative engagement in achieving environmental objectives.

A Blueprint for Remediation and Modernization

The agreement outlines several concrete commitments by the Charleston Water System to systematically address and mitigate the sewer overflow problems in West Ashley. These commitments represent a clear, actionable plan for infrastructure renewal and enhanced operational transparency. Such structured planning is essential for any significant public works project, providing accountability and a clear path to resolution.

Central to the agreement, CWS has committed to continuing and expediting planned inspections, repairs, and replacements within the sewer system, adhering to agreed-upon deadlines. This includes carrying out more rigorous pipe inspections where necessary in West Ashley, ensuring a thorough assessment and proactive remediation of potential problem areas. Furthermore, CWS will provide Charleston Waterkeeper with quarterly reports on the progress of their inspection and repair program, making these reports publicly available to ensure transparency and community awareness.

In a move to improve communication and public safety, CWS will deploy a customer notification system. This system will alert residents when a sewage overflow event occurs in their area, empowering citizens with timely information. This focus on transparent communication and accountability is a positive development for Charleston County economy and its residents.

Substantial Investments in a Resilient Future

Beyond the immediate terms of this agreement, the Charleston Water System has already demonstrated significant financial commitment to upgrading and modernizing its infrastructure, particularly within West Ashley and the former St. Andrews PSD sewer system. These substantial investments are critical for creating a resilient system capable of supporting continued population growth and economic development in the region.

CWS has invested hundreds of millions of dollars to date in making significant improvements. Key projects have included closing two failed wastewater treatment plants, eliminating illegal sewer bypasses that directly discharged into waterways, and implementing a nationally recognized inflow/infiltration (I/I) reduction program. This program alone has successfully eliminated 5 million gallons of inflow and infiltration per year, significantly reducing stress on the system.

Looking ahead, CWS CEO Wesley Ropp has indicated a plan to spend nearly $200 million over the next decade to fully resolve lingering sewer overflow issues that primarily manifest after significant rain events. This long-term vision is further encapsulated in CWS’s comprehensive wastewater master plan, which includes a total investment of $250 million. This master plan is allocated for new tunnels, critical pump stations, and other renewal and replacement projects, all designed to ensure the system can effectively manage future population growth, adapt to sea level rise, and withstand extreme weather conditions. These forward-looking initiatives are vital for the sustained success of South Carolina entrepreneurs and the broader community.

One notable ongoing project is a $117 million sewer upgrade. This ambitious undertaking involves boring a larger wastewater line nearly four miles along the West Ashley Greenway. This particular project is deemed vital for accommodating future wastewater loads resulting from growth in West Ashley, Johns Island, Hollywood, Ravenel, and Meggett, demonstrating a strategic response to regional expansion.

Empowering Homeowners and Community Engagement

In a move that directly supports local property owners and promotes community involvement, the agreement includes a significant commitment from CWS to recommend funding for a new sewer lateral line replacement grant program. This program is specifically designed for homeowners whose properties connect to the main sewer system via vitrified clay pipes. These older pipes can be prone to issues, and their replacement can be a considerable expense for homeowners.

The proposed grant program will offer a defined reimbursement for the replacement of these lateral lines, with a recommended annual funding of $50,000 for the next five years. This initiative not only addresses a critical infrastructure vulnerability at the homeowner level but also empowers residents to participate actively in improving the overall integrity of the wastewater system. Such programs foster a sense of shared responsibility and can spur localized economic activity, benefiting Charleston small business contractors and suppliers.

The emphasis on a customer notification system also underscores the value of an informed citizenry. By alerting customers to overflow events, CWS is promoting transparency and enabling residents to take appropriate precautions. This collaborative spirit, where public utilities actively engage and support their customer base, is a hallmark of a thriving and well-managed community.

A Positive Outcome for Charleston’s Future

This comprehensive agreement represents a significant victory for clean water and the ongoing health and prosperity of Charleston’s waterways. It accelerates the necessary work to address the root causes of sewer overflows, ensuring a healthier environment for all. This proactive problem-solving, rather than simply reacting to issues, is a testament to dedicated civic leadership and the power of collaborative solutions.

Furthermore, the positive outcome of a recent joint SCDES and EPA wastewater compliance inspection provides additional reassurance. This inspection, conducted after the lawsuit was filed, found no Clean Water Act or National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit violations and resulted in Charleston Water System receiving the highest possible ratings. This achievement reflects the extensive efforts and significant investments CWS has already made in upgrading its system.

Charleston’s commitment to robust infrastructure and environmental protection is vital for its continued growth and appeal. We encourage all residents to stay informed and engaged in these critical initiatives. Supporting local businesses involved in infrastructure improvements and signing up for customer alert notifications from the Charleston Water System are tangible ways to contribute to our community’s resilience and progress. Together, we can ensure Charleston County economy remains strong and our precious Lowcountry environment is preserved for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the agreement between Charleston Water System and Charleston Waterkeeper about?
The agreement addresses ongoing sanitary sewer overflow (SSO) problems in West Ashley.
How long did it take to reach this agreement?
The agreement was reached after two years of discussions.
What led to this agreement?
Charleston Waterkeeper sent Charleston Water System a notice of intent to sue in 2024 under the federal Clean Water Act to address sewage overflows, primarily in the former St. Andrews Public Service District wastewater collection system.
What are the Charleston Water System’s commitments under this agreement?
The Charleston Water System committed to continuing and expediting planned inspections, repairs, and replacements to the sewer system to reduce overflow events in West Ashley according to agreed-upon deadlines; carrying out more rigorous pipe inspections where necessary in West Ashley; sending Charleston Waterkeeper, and making publicly available, quarterly reports on the progress of their pipe inspection and repair program in West Ashley; and deploying a customer notification system that alerts customers about sewage overflow events in their area.
What additional investments has Charleston Water System made in West Ashley’s sewer infrastructure?
Charleston Water System has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in West Ashley and the former St. Andrews PSD sewer system, including closing two failed wastewater treatment plants, eliminating illegal sewer bypasses, and implementing a nationally recognized inflow/infiltration (I/I) reduction program that has eliminated 5 million gallons of I/I per year. The CEO has stated they will spend nearly $200 million in the next decade to resolve lingering sewer overflow issues from heavy rain events. A wastewater master plan includes a $250 million investment in new tunnels, key pump stations, and other renewal/replacement projects.
Is there a program to assist homeowners with sewer line replacements?
Yes, Charleston Water System committed to recommending funding for a newly established sewer lateral line replacement grant program for homeowners with vitrified clay pipe sewer line connections, offering defined reimbursement for replacements, with recommended funding of $50,000 annually for the next five years.

Key Features of the Charleston Water System Agreement and Initiatives

Feature	Description
Agreement Parties	Charleston Water System (CWS) and Charleston Waterkeeper.
Primary Goal	Address and fix sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs) in West Ashley.
Duration of Negotiations	Two years of discussions leading to the agreement.
Historical Context	CWS took over the former St. Andrews PSD system in 1995 due to improper design and mismanagement.
Key CWS Commitments	Expedited inspections/repairs, rigorous pipe inspections, quarterly public reports, customer notification system for overflows.
Past CWS Investments	Hundreds of millions of dollars invested in West Ashley, including closing two failed wastewater treatment plants and an I/I reduction program that eliminated 5 million gallons/year.
Future CWS Investments	Nearly $200 million over the next decade for overflow issues, and a $250 million wastewater master plan for new tunnels and pump stations.
Homeowner Support	Sewer lateral line replacement grant program for homeowners with vitrified clay pipes, with recommended funding of $50,000 annually for five years.
Compliance Status	Recent joint SCDES and EPA inspection resulted in no Clean Water Act or NPDES permit violations, with highest possible ratings for CWS.