The city of Manning got a shot in the arm Thursday after Rural Infrastructure notified officials of a $500,000 grant award that will allow for the replacement of existing and aged sewer lines.
Manning Mayor Julia Nelson said the main replacement will be "the main trunk line" that serves Clarendon County Industrial Park.
"This is a clay pipe that was installed about 45 years ago," said Nelson. "This line serves all of the industries that currently operate in the (Industrial) Park, as well as providing sewer service to Summerton when needed."
Nelson said that the system is operational but, due to its age, is susceptible to "infiltration in the system and could eventually collapse if not replaced."
"It is very important to economic development that we maintain and provide reliable service to the (Industrial) Park," said Nelson.
The city will also replace about 400 feet of sewer line underneath a pond east of S.C. 260.
"This was also installed back in 1973 and is clay pipe," said Nelson. "Cameras have indicated many leaks in this particular line, and we’ve been concerned about its eventual collapse."
Nelson said that city officials were made aware of the grant opportunity by Administrator Scott Tanner.
"(He) always remains informed of grant opportunities that can benefit our city," said Nelson. "These grants aid in further expanding economic development opportunities for our area."
She said one of the main criteria for receiving the grant included "a sound fiduciary history and capacity."
"(That is) mandatory to be eligible to receive funding from this entity," said Nelson. "I'm extremely proud of the fiduciary confident that South Carolina Rural Infrastructure continues to place with the city of Manning. I'm also pleased with our competent staff and the financial decisions of City Council, which are the reasons we have such a sound financial infrastructure. It's truly a team effort."
Nelson did not say when work on the sewer lines would begin.
