$100-million sewer tunnel project aims to eliminate storm overflows
(UI) - Construction is underway on Charleston Water System's West Ashley Sewer Tunnel Extension, a more than $100 million wastewater infrastructure project designed to reduce sanitary sewer overflows and improve system reliability during major storm events.
The tunnel extension is expected to become the second-largest capital project in Charleston Water System's history, according to ABC4 News. Utility officials say the project will address long-standing overflow issues that have affected portions of West Ashley during periods of heavy rainfall.
According to Charleston Water System, the tunnel will replace a problematic pump station and consolidate wastewater flows into a single conveyance system. Much of the area's existing sewer infrastructure is relatively shallow, making it more susceptible to infiltration and operational challenges during severe weather.
The project also includes construction of a new screening facility that will remove debris such as wipes and other non-flushable materials before they can contribute to blockages within the system. Utility officials say these materials can exacerbate backups and overflows when stormwater infiltrates aging sewer lines.
Construction began in June 2025 and is expected to continue for approximately two more years, ABC4 reported. Once operational, Charleston Water System expects the tunnel to significantly reduce—and ultimately eliminate—many of the sanitary sewer overflows that have impacted older West Ashley neighborhoods.
The tunnel extension is part of a broader effort by the utility to modernize wastewater infrastructure and improve environmental performance across its service area. Additional sewer system improvement projects are planned as Charleston Water System continues to address growth, aging assets and stormwater-related challenges.
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