Pickens County leaped a hurdle in its efforts to replace waterlines in Tate County this month. The months-old project recently received approval from the EPD (Environmental Protection Department) for plans to replace waterlines in Tate. Pickens County Water Authority Director Larry Coleman explained that the project also includes the replacement of the Tate water Tank.

During this month’s water authority meeting, Coleman said the project will begin on Pickens Street at the railroad tracks, proceed to Tate, then toward Old Highway Five. After Old Highway Five, the line will return toward Canton Highway, turn on North and South Station Street, proceed back up to Highway 53 and then tie into Parker Road. The Big Canoe connection is also included in the contract, Coleman said.

According to the director, the Tate Water Tank will also be replaced.

“The contractor has been given the go ahead to tear it down,”

he said, adding that the cost to tear it down is $8000. This price, he said, was the lowest bid.

Funding for the project will come from two primary sources. Coleman reported a GEFA grant has been secured for $300,000 in addition to a USDA loan in the amount of $900,000.

“The only thing we’re waiting on right now is the USDA to give us the go-ahead,”

Coleman said, adding,

“As soon as they get the last pay request through…on the tank”

the county can open bids for the work.

Coleman expects the project to begin in the summer.