Plans for Sewer Expansion Spark Debate in Athens-Clarke County
In a recent work session, the Athens-Clarke County mayor and commission delved into discussions about expanding sewer services to the northern parts of the county, particularly in the areas surrounding Sandy Creek.
Currently, the existing sewer infrastructure halts at the intersection of Highway-129 and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway. An external evaluation highlighted that more than 1,500 residents in the Sandy Creek Basin rely on outdated septic systems.
District 9’s Commissioner Ovita Thornton voiced her concerns, emphasizing the need for sewer extensions in areas beyond just those earmarked for future development. “I’ve got folk in my district that have learned to live with faulty septic tanks. Help me fix that,” she stated.
The commission is seeking additional insights into the feasibility of extending sewer services to select areas in the southern part of the Sandy Creek Basin, as opposed to covering the entire region. Initial assessments suggest that extending a major sewer line throughout the Sandy Creek Basin could incur costs upwards of $100 million.
Another concern was raised by Commissioner Melissa Link from District 2, who expressed apprehensions about potential pollution risks to the city’s drinking water if sewer lines are installed too close to Sandy Creek.
