Town of Braselton, Georgia
The Town of Braselton, Georgia, recognized the need for additional water supply through the purchase of wholesale water from Gwinnett and Jackson Counties. Braselton enlisted the services of Engineering Management Inc. to develop a three-phased approach to the program. Phase 1 consisted of over 18 miles of 12”, 10” and 8” water mains to close loops throughout the distribution system, and also open up new areas for expanded and improved services. Phase II included approximately eight miles of 16” and 12” water main for an additional connection to the Gwinnett County System. This phase also included the construction of a one million gallon elevated water tank. Phase III consisted of approximately three miles of 12” water main, a booster pumping station and a connection to the Jackson County water system. Phase IV consisted of an additional one million gallon elevated water tank and twelve miles of 2” to 16” water mains.
The Town of Braselton’s re-use wastewater program took top honors in the small-city category for Community and Economic Development in a Georgia Trend Setter Awards event. The re-use wastewater program was developed by EMI to help ensure future industrial and residential growth in the rapidly developing area of Braselton. Demands for water usage were extremely high and projected to exceed capacity. While re-use systems had been in place in other states, this was the first of its kind in Georgia. Since re-use water permitting regulations had not yet been established at the state level, EMI worked closely with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division to develop these regulations. Components of the treatment works include SBR technology, fine screening, ultraviolet disinfection, on-site sludge management which results in the production of re-use quality effluent. Effluent from the new plant is transported to area golf courses and sod farms; and, is also used to recharge local river basins. Other uses under consideration include industries that don’t require potable water such as concrete plants and carpet manufacturers. Potential residential uses being explored include lawn irrigation and sanitary capacity for flushing toilets. The cost of recycled water is about one fourth the price when compared to drinkable water, and reduces the demand on the drinking water capacity. The Town Braselton was also chosen from among dozens of candidates to participate in the "City Showcase" at the National League of Cities' annual congress. The showcase is an annual display and celebration of innovative city programs from around the country, offering city leaders a chance to share ideas and valuable experiences. The town's re-use water system developed by EMI gained national attention for its innovation, operational standards and efficiency.
The Town of Braselton’s re-use wastewater program took top honors in the small-city category for Community and Economic Development in a Georgia Trend Setter Awards event. The re-use wastewater program was developed by EMI to help ensure future industrial and residential growth in the rapidly developing area of Braselton. Demands for water usage were extremely high and projected to exceed capacity. While re-use systems had been in place in other states, this was the first of its kind in Georgia. Since re-use water permitting regulations had not yet been established at the state level, EMI worked closely with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division to develop these regulations. Components of the treatment works include SBR technology, fine screening, ultraviolet disinfection, on-site sludge management which results in the production of re-use quality effluent. Effluent from the new plant is transported to area golf courses and sod farms; and, is also used to recharge local river basins. Other uses under consideration include industries that don’t require potable water such as concrete plants and carpet manufacturers. Potential residential uses being explored include lawn irrigation and sanitary capacity for flushing toilets. The cost of recycled water is about one fourth the price when compared to drinkable water, and reduces the demand on the drinking water capacity. The Town Braselton was also chosen from among dozens of candidates to participate in the "City Showcase" at the National League of Cities' annual congress. The showcase is an annual display and celebration of innovative city programs from around the country, offering city leaders a chance to share ideas and valuable experiences. The town's re-use water system developed by EMI gained national attention for its innovation, operational standards and efficiency.
