James River Water Supply Project Groundbreaking
The four mile pipeline marks a significant milestone in addressing water supply challenges and fostering collaboration between two counties.
Representatives from Louisa and Fluvanna Counties, the James River Water Authority, and organizations responsible for the design and construction of the new pipeline gathered for a groundbreaking event to celebrate the beginning of the long-awaited project.
Like many other Virginia localities, Louisa and Fluvanna Counties are experiencing impressive population growth and many businesses are choosing to relocate there. Leaders in both counties identified a need to build a reliable and sustainable water supply for the region to accommodate this growth. The two counties formed the James River Water Authority to govern water distribution and treatment. The JRWA has overseen the construction of water transmission lines across both counties, along with a centrally located treatment plant to produce finished water for distribution.
The final and crucial step in the development process is to connect the existing infrastructure to a raw water source, an initiative known as the James River Water Supply Project (WSP). The project comprises three parts: first is a submerged intake structure in the James River near Columbia, VA; second, is a pump station that will be constructed near the intake structure. The third portion is a 24” water main that will carry the raw water from the intake and pump station to existing raw water transmission mains. Once complete, the JRWA will take ownership of the system and operate it to benefit the citizens of Louisa and Fluvanna Counties. The project is expected to be completed in two to three years and cost $56 million to be split by Fluvanna and Louisa and helped with grant money.
Faulconer’s Central Virginia Area Manager, Pete Morris, spoke on behalf of the Design-Build Team, which includes the Timmons Group, MEB, and Faulconer Construction.
“As local design firm and contractors, our team’s commitment to the Counties of Louisa and Fluvanna is rooted in the belief that strong communities are the backbone of our Commonwealth. At its completion, this key infrastructure project will improve the quality of life for these residents, paving the way for sustainable growth for future generations. At Faulconer, we are dedicated to building a brighter, more connected Virginia by ensuring that local citizens have access to safe and reliable drinking water.”
All photos courtesy of Sarah Cramer Shields.
