Work has begun for the $1.68 Million Joanna Infrastructure Project – Signaling Investment in Community
Laurens County’s Joanna Sewer Rehabilitation Project represents a significant investment in the future of the Joanna community and demonstrates the shared commitment of Laurens County, the Laurens County and Water and Sewer Commission (LCWSC), and the Upper Savannah Council of Governments (USCOG) to improve aging water and wastewater infrastructure.
In June of 2025, the Laurens County Council in partnership with LCWSC was awarded $1,321,050 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding for the project, which is expected to cost approximately $1,688,300. LCWSC has budgeted an additional $367,280 toward the improvements.
The project will include water and sewer upgrades along portions of West Calhoun Street, East Calhoun Street, Reeder Street, Workman Street, North Main Street, Taylor Street and Sumter Street.
Water improvements will include approximately 1,600 linear feet of new 6-inch water line, four fire hydrants, connections to existing water mains and the reconnection of 43 water services.
Sewer improvements will include approximately 1,850 linear feet of replacement gravity sewer line, 580 linear feet of pipe bursting, six new manholes, rehabilitation of approximately eight existing manholes and the reconnection of 33 sewer services. Work will also include crossings beneath state-maintained roads and the CSX railroad.
This project is more than just replacing pipes,” Jerre Threatt, Laurens County Administrator said. “It’s about supporting the residents of Joanna by strengthening essential services and investing in infrastructure that will serve the community well into the future.”
Laurens County was honored to assist in securing this funding opportunity and appreciates the partnership of LCWSC and Upper Savannah Council of Governments.”
The project is an important example of how local and regional partners can work together to identify needs, secure outside funding and move critical infrastructure improvements forward.
LCWSC’s contribution reflects its commitment to providing safe, reliable and sustainable water and wastewater services throughout Laurens County, including communities where aging infrastructure presents significant challenges.
“LCWSC understands the importance of reliable water and wastewater service to the health, safety and future of the Joanna community,” Jeff Field, Executive Director for LCWSC said. “This investment demonstrates that Joanna is a priority and that we are committed to working with Laurens County and Upper Savannah Council of Governments to pursue funding and complete meaningful infrastructure improvements.”
While this project will address specific streets and service areas, it is part of a broader effort to completely rehabilitate the water and sewer systems in the Joanna community. LCWSC continues to identify and document needed improvements. This and the momentum gained from each successful project strengthens future applications for grants and other funding opportunities.
Laurens County, LCWSC and Upper Savannah Council of Governments remain committed to identifying additional resources and pursuing future projects that can continue improving water and wastewater infrastructure throughout Joanna.