Atlanta City Council Approves $2.4 Billion Infrastructure Overhaul for Aging Water System
The sweeping plan will replace more than 300 miles of lead service lines and upgrade treatment facilities across the city over the next decade.
Marcus Webb
City Hall Reporter
1 min read
ATLANTA — The Atlanta City Council voted 11-4 Monday to approve a landmark $2.4 billion infrastructure package aimed at replacing the city's aging water and sewer systems, a project officials say is long overdue and critical to the city's continued growth.
The plan calls for the replacement of more than 300 miles of lead service lines, upgrades to three water treatment facilities, and the construction of a new reservoir in DeKalb County.
"This is the most significant investment in Atlanta's water infrastructure since the 1970s," Mayor Andre Dickens said. "We owe it to every resident — in every neighborhood — to have clean, reliable water."
Under the approved plan, residential water rates will increase by an average of 8 percent annually for the next five years. Low-income households will be eligible for subsidies through an expanded assistance program.
Construction is expected to begin in the spring, starting with the oldest infrastructure in the Vine City and English Avenue neighborhoods. The project is expected to create approximately 4,500 construction jobs over its 10-year timeline.
About the Author
Marcus Webb
City Hall Reporter at Atl Daily Now