The Purrysburg Water Treatment Plant expansion project in Hardeeville, South Carolina, represents a significant infrastructure investment that has successfully doubled the facility’s capacity from 15 million gallons per day (MGD) to 30 MGD.
Commissioned by the Beaufort Jasper Water and Sewer Authority (BJWSA), this comprehensive expansion addresses the growing water demands of the rapidly developing region.
GMC provided complete engineering, environmental and electrical engineering services for the water treatment plant expansion, following the firm’s completion of the preliminary engineering report. The project was strategically divided into two phases to optimize construction sequencing and minimize operational disruptions: Phase I focused on solids handling and clear well construction, while Phase II encompassed the full 15 MGD capacity expansion.
The expansion incorporates state-of-the-art water treatment technologies designed to address the unique challenges of the Purrysburg Reservoir’s high organic loading and low turbidity conditions.
Advanced chemical feed systems with powder activated carbon (PAC) contactor and silo to combat taste and odor issues
Static mixing structure replacing the existing mechanical rapid mix system
Paddle wheel flocculators for enhanced flocculation processes
Plate settlers with hose-less sludge removal systems for improved sedimentation
Five additional dual-media filters with stainless steel underdrains
Second clear well designed to achieve required contact time (CT)
On-site sodium hypochlorite generation for reliable disinfection
Modern instrumentation and SCADA control systems
Beyond the treatment processes, GMC provided architectural services for the renovation and expansion of critical support facilities, including the Operations Control Facility, Lab and Emergency Operations Facility. These upgrades ensure operational continuity during severe weather events and enhance the plant’s overall resilience.
The completed expansion ensures a stronger, cleaner and more efficient water supply for the community, supporting both current needs and future growth in the Beaufort-Jasper region.
The project’s phased approach and comprehensive design have positioned BJWSA to reliably serve increasing water demands while maintaining the highest standards of water quality and treatment efficiency.
GMC is one of the most comprehensive multi-disciplined architecture and engineering firms in the Southeast.
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