South Carolina Water Utilities investing in Fairwood wastewater infrastructure
August 25, 2026
Upgrades will strengthen reliability, improve system monitoring and support long-term wastewater needs in Union County
South Carolina Water Utilities (SCWU) is making new infrastructure investments at its Fairwood Wastewater Treatment Plant in Union County to strengthen system reliability and help ensure the facility can continue meeting the needs of the community.
Work currently underway includes replacing the plant’s bar screen, a critical piece of equipment that removes large solids early in the wastewater treatment process and helps protect downstream equipment from clogs and damage.
SCWU is also using a high-resolution mobile camera system that will enable utility professionals to inspect underground wastewater lines and more accurately assess pipe conditions after a thorough cleaning by the high-pressure vacuum truck. The technology will provide SCWU with additional information to identify potential maintenance needs and proactively manage the system.
“Reliable wastewater service depends on continually maintaining and investing in the infrastructure that customers may never see,” said Craig Sorensen, president of SCWU. “These improvements at Fairwood are another example of our commitment to taking a proactive approach to infrastructure, using modern technology and making the investments necessary to provide dependable service for the communities we serve.”
The improvements are expected to take several months to complete. Residents may notice additional traffic around the Fairwood facility while work is underway, but no interruption to wastewater service is anticipated.
The Fairwood project is part of SCWU’s ongoing efforts to maintain and modernize water and wastewater infrastructure across its South Carolina service areas. By investing in critical equipment and enhanced system monitoring, SCWU is working to strengthen reliability today while preparing its systems for future needs.
“Much of the infrastructure that makes our communities work operates quietly in the background every day,” Sorensen added. “Our responsibility is to make sure it continues doing so safely and reliably, and that means making thoughtful investments before problems arise.”
For more information about South Carolina Water Utilities, visit the company’s website.
About South Carolina Water Utilities
South Carolina Water Utilities is the state’s largest private provider of water and wastewater services, serving thousands of customers across the Lowcountry, Midlands, and Upstate regions. Through infrastructure investment and operational excellence, we safeguard our natural resources for today and future generations. Our mission is to deliver excellent customer service while protecting public health and the environment through clean, safe, and reliable water and wastewater systems. For more information, visit South Carolina Water Utilities’ website and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram.
