August 9, 2025

Construction Begins on Pennsylvania Street Stormwater Project

News Summary

The Pennsylvania Street Stormwater Mitigation Project has officially commenced in Florence, S.C. This initiative, a collaboration between the SC Office of Resilience and the City of Florence, aims to address flooding in low to moderate-income neighborhoods by upgrading outdated stormwater infrastructure. Enhancements include pipe replacements, storm drainage cleaning, and new drainage boxes, significantly improving stormwater management. Local officials highlight the project’s importance for residents and the overall environment.

Florence, S.C. – Construction on the Pennsylvania Street Stormwater Mitigation Project has officially commenced during the week of July 28, as a collaborative effort between the South Carolina Office of Resilience (SCOR) and the City of Florence. This initiative primarily targets low to moderate-income neighborhoods within the city, aiming to alleviate persistent flooding issues associated with outdated infrastructure.

Over the next five to seven months, workers will execute multiple improvements to the stormwater management systems along Pennsylvania, Coit, Preston, Lawson, and West Sumter Streets. Key enhancements include the replacement and up-sizing of nearly 1,300 linear feet of pipe and the cleaning of 2,380 linear feet of storm drainage. The project also features the installation of 39 new drainage boxes, which are expected to significantly improve the flow and management of stormwater.

The Pennsylvania Street area has been suffering from localized flooding, exacerbated by broken, blocked, and undersized pipes and a deteriorated detention pond. Approximately three-quarters of the residents within the affected service area are classified as low to moderate-income, making this project critical for enhancing their living conditions and protecting their property. The stormwater improvements aim to not only mitigate flooding but also to enhance mobility for residents and first responders along three local arterial roads.

Local officials have expressed strong support for this project. Representative Terry Alexander from District 59 commended the collaboration between SCOR and the City of Florence, highlighting the importance of addressing flooding solutions tailored to the community’s needs. Similarly, Senator Kent Williams from District 30 noted that the enhancements will have a positive impact not only on direct residents but on the broader watershed area, further extending the project’s benefits.

This stormwater mitigation initiative is part of a comprehensive master stormwater management plan for the City of Florence, which encompasses several initiatives aimed at reducing flooding risks across the city. By tackling the existing challenges with the stormwater infrastructure, the project seeks to create safer living conditions for the residents and ensures that essential services can operate effectively during adverse weather conditions.

The importance of stormwater management cannot be overstated, particularly in urban areas like Florence, where rainfall can quickly lead to significant flooding risks. Emphasizing community-focused projects, developers aim to increase resilience against future weather events, ensuring safety and accessibility throughout the city.

As construction progresses, city officials encourage residents to stay informed and engaged with updates related to project developments. The collaboration between state and local agencies underlines a commitment to improving the environmental infrastructure, ultimately fostering a more sustainable future for the City of Florence and its residents.