Assistance Program for Aging Sewer Lines in Statesboro

In Statesboro, many homeowners are confronting issues with aging Orangeburg sewer pipes. Predominantly used during the mid-20th century, these pipes, crafted from wood fiber and petroleum products, are now failing, leaving property owners to replace the lateral sewer lines extending from their homes to the city main.

A decade ago, the Statesboro Herald highlighted a homeowner on Azalea Drive who spent roughly $4,000 to replace a deteriorating sewer line. Today, with rising inflation and construction costs, the financial impact is more significant. To alleviate this burden, the city has introduced a program for owner-occupied homes to assist with these expenses.

Recently, the Ladd Circle area experienced similar challenges. Margot Bragg, a property owner, replaced the final segment of Orangeburg pipe after a collapse caused sewage issues. Having upgraded other sections last year, this latest repair involved complex excavation under city streets, leading to cost variations. While her property, being rented, did not qualify for the city's assistance program, resident homeowners can receive financial support for street-underlying repair costs.

According to Matt Aycock, Statesboro's Public Utilities Director, this issue is not widespread but has become more noticeable. The city's assistance program, launched in November 2023, aims to ease the financial strain by reimbursing significant portions of repair costs, factoring in project specifics like depth and surface disruption.

Program eligibility mandates that applicants be both owners and residents of a single-family home within the city limits and solicit multiple quotes from licensed plumbing contractors. Insurance assessments are also crucial to ascertain possible coverage.

Though program utilization has been limited, resulting in $23,100 in total reimbursements, city officials are considering expanding it to include other property categories, such as rental homes or residences occupied by family members. This proactive approach underscores the city's commitment to addressing infrastructure-related financial burdens on its residents.