By: Tracy Sanders, Co-Editor | tracy@thewoodrufftimes.com
Woodruff, S.C. — A new chapter in water security began Tuesday as the Woodruff-Roebuck Water District (WRWD) broke ground on a 120-million-gallon raw water storage basin. Its a project designed to safeguard the community’s supply for decades to come.
The facility, located on the District’s 300-acre property, will provide enough water to meet 30 days of demand at current usage levels. Officials say it will enhance drought resilience, improve water quality, and give the District greater flexibility in daily operations.“This project represents another major step forward for the Woodruff-Roebuck Water District,” said WRWD General Manager Kermit Johnson. “It’s designed to strengthen our system today while preparing us for the growth we know is coming.”
To illustrate the scale, Johnson compared the new basin to nearly 182 Olympic-sized swimming pools. “That’s the size of the investment we’re making in our community’s future,” he added.
The basin is backed by $10 million in funding from the South Carolina Infrastructure Investment Program, administered by the state’s Rural Infrastructure Authority. The program prioritizes projects ready to move forward quickly while delivering immediate benefits to local residents.“
Water security is at the heart of what we do,” Johnson said. “This investment gives us greater independence, ensures we are better prepared for droughts, and delivers long-term value for the customers we serve.”
Officials emphasized that the timing of the project is critical. Current permits, which took years to secure, are set to expire soon, and stricter requirements could make future approvals more difficult. Acting now, they say, positions WRWD to serve future generations with reliability and confidence.
Since its founding in 1956, WRWD has built a reputation for anticipating community needs. From exploring reservoir options in the early 2000s, to opening its treatment plant in 2013, to expanding its capacity in 2021. The District has consistently invested in long-term solutions.
The new basin continues that tradition, with construction expected to wrap up in December 2026. Once complete, it will add a vital safeguard for everyday operations and prepare the District for expected growth in southern Spartanburg County.
For households and businesses, the project means more than just water in reserve. It promises self-sufficiency, stronger drought protection, and the continuation of reliable service that has defined WRWD for nearly 70 years.
Tuesday’s groundbreaking included remarks from local and state leaders, followed by the ceremonial turning of dirt, a symbolic first step in a project that officials say will secure the region’s future.
Established in 1956, WRWD provides drinking water and fire protection across southern Spartanburg County. The District owns and operates its own water treatment plant and raw water intakes, serving residents and businesses in Woodruff, Roebuck, and surrounding areas.
Author: Tracy Sanders
