The new state budget approved by the legislature includes $12.5 million for replacement of aging sewer system pipes within the Contentnea Metropolitan Sewerage District (CMSD) system made up by the member towns of Ayden, Grifton, and Winterville. Representative Tim Reeder advocated for the funding.
"Since the day I was elected, I wanted to support my constituents and improve my communities," said Reeder. "I had the pleasure of touring the CMSD facilities and learning firsthand the issues they were facing. I was proud to request funding to aid the CMSD and I am grateful that funding was granted. I know this will allow our towns to grow for years to come."
The funding will support the replacement of transmission mains – originally installed more than 50 years ago – with lines having a higher capacity and made of more resilient materials. The age of the existing system elements has caused disruptive mainline failures over the last two years.
"We appreciate House and Senate leadership concurring with the urgency and needs of the district," said Chuck Smithwick, District Manager of CMSD. "This funding will make a lasting difference for the citizens, businesses, and institutions that count on us."
At the Pitt County Commissioners meeting on October 16, CMSD Board Chair and County Commissioner Mark Smith motioned for another $2 million from the County. The motion carried, and the additional money will support the force main replacement. That brings the total of new funding for the district to $14.5 million.
At the Pitt County Commissioners meeting on October 16, CMSD Board Chair and County Commissioner Mark Smith motioned for another $2 million from the County. The motion carried, and the additional money will support the force main replacement. That brings the total of new funding for the district to $14.5 million.
CMSD is the sole wastewater treatment system for its member towns in Pitt and Lenoir counties. It serves more than 6,800 residential and non-residential customers. The infrastructure upgrades will support public health and economic development.
The sewer collection system transmits wastewater to the district’s treatment plant, which consistently ranks among the best-performing facilities in the Neuse River Basin Association. Returning sufficiently treated water into the environment protects the ecosystem and ensures waterways are safe for recreation.