The City of Aiken Stormwater Relief Project for the Sand River will begin work on a green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) project on August 23, 2021, according to a statement from the city. The new green space in the city will include shrubs, trees, sod and flowers, and will double as a community green space.

Mayor Rick Osbon commissioned a Stormwater Task Force in 2016, and City Council accepted a Sand River Implementation Plan in 2018. The final project aims to reduce the flow and velocity of stormwater into the Sand River located in Hitchcock Woods, thereby controlling erosion and sediment loads. Two automated control systems will be installed to maximize the effectiveness of relieving stormwater flow.

The $15.8 million project is funded by the One Percent Capital Projects Sales Tax, City of Aiken Hospitality Tax funds, federal American Rescue Plan funds, a loan from the South Carolina State Revolving Fund and a DHEC grant.

Aiken City Council appointed Thalle Construction as the project contractor. When complete, the newly installed system will contain and control the flow of stormwater discharge into the Sand River located in Hitchcock Woods. The project is slated to be completed by September 2022.

“The Aiken City Council understands the importance of improving our infrastructure,” stated City of Aiken Mayor Rick Osbon in the city’s announcement. “This project is a great example of protecting and preserving an important part of Aiken’s history while better serving the needs of our citizens. This is a significant aspect of the stormwater relief plan.”

SOURCE: City of Aiken, South Carolina