Long-awaited win for cleaner water, better transparency in West Ashley

Stopping sewage overflows has been a top priority for years, and today we’re celebrating a big win that will reduce bacteria pollution in the Ashley River. Represented by the Southern Environmental Law Center, we reached a settlement with Charleston Water System to address persistent issues, improve public communication and accountability, and protect the health of your waterways. 

This settlement shows Charleston Water System is ready to take responsibility for the root cause of sanitary sewer overflows (SSO) by requiring more robust inspection, assessment, and repair of its collection systems in West Ashley.

The agreement instates an accelerated timeline to fix leaks and defects that cause overflows during heavy rain storms and floods. It also increases public transparency through regular progress reporting to the public and Charleston Waterkeeper.

The agreement creates a public notification system for active SSOs that will alert the community in real time and keep locals informed about risks of exposure to bacteria and pathogens. Importantly, Charleston Water System agreed to make funding available to help minimize the financial burden for homeowners to replace leaky sewer laterals. Read more about the settlement in the Post & Courier, Charleston City Paper, and on Live 5 News.  

We believe you have a right to use and enjoy your waterways without fear of getting sick. And, that you have a right to know when and where overflows are happening in your neighborhood. We are proud to work with Charleston Water System to address the long standing overflow problem in West Ashley. This is a big step in the right direction keeping bacteria pollution out of homes, streets, and your waterways!