Thanks to hard work and patience, the Town of Latta has some good things coming. Sewer and water has been a critical issue affecting many citizens in Latta. Previous councils have sought out and secured funding but no work has been seen for some of that funding. Prior to COVID, progress was being made in water and sewer upgrades in Latta. After COVID, work was halted due to increased material costs and other issues.
One of the upgrades essential to Latta is the creation of a new elevated water storage tank. This project has been awarded to Caldwell Tanks. It will create a new 300,000 gallon water tank at the cost of $3,046,000 increasing the town’s elevated water storage from its current capacity. The completion date of this project is expected to be May 19, 2026. The site for this construction will be located behind Henry Street Park. Park availability will be updated and changed once construction begins.
Another project will include upgrading water lines on Henry Street. This will bypass the problem area that has been responsible for many of the water shut-offs in Latta in recent years. This contract was awarded to Frank Horne Construction and has a completion date of July 20, 2025. This project is expected to cost $875,077.
Next, a project which will include installing 500 feet of 10-inch water line, 2500 feet of 6-inch water line, and 200 feet of 8-inch water line along properties located between SW Railroad Avenue and Holly Street (off West Main Street). The contract has yet to be awarded, but bids have been taken. SCDOT plans to resurface the remainder of Main Street once this work is completed. The project is expected to cost $797,254. This will be the third part of a project that totals over $8,134,112 SCIIP Grant, a $996,625 SRF grant, and a $1,259,900 Rural Development Loan/Grant.
Funding received in the amount of $875,510 in July of 2022 for a project upgrading the sewer system on the South side of town has been completed.
The last project deals with stormwater issues on Rice Street. This project is funded with $195,000 secured by Representative Jackie Hayes several years ago. Changes to the project have been required, causing delays. A new 4 ft. by 5 ft. rectangular culvert box will now be installed to open the ditch up and allow drainage from various parts of town. This project is currently ongoing and updates will be announced soon.
The town is currently working with new accountants updating accounts from 2022 through current day so that the proper audits can be completed. Once that is done, town leaders hope to seek out more projects and grants to help make Latta a better place to live. Leaders ask for patience and care when traveling around job sites.
Long-Awaited Water Tank and Other Projects Soon To Be Underway In Latta
