South Carolina Allocates $27 Million Boost for Rural Water Systems and Economic Growth

South Carolina is making a significant investment in its rural future, allocating an additional $27 million in one-time funding to bolster rural water and sewer systems and drive economic development across the state. This substantial financial injection aims to address critical infrastructure needs and pave the way for new business opportunities in smaller communities.

The additional funds, provided by the state legislature, will be managed by the South Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA) and will support a new round of competitive grants over the next year. This allocation is part of a broader, ongoing effort to help towns and counties repair aging infrastructure, enhance public health, and create a stronger foundation for future economic prosperity.

The $27 million includes $12 million specifically for the Rural Infrastructure Fund and an additional $15 million for the state’s Water and Sewer Infrastructure Fund. This sum is in addition to the RIA’s recurring funding, bringing the total available for the upcoming grant cycle to nearly $49 million.

The funding is seen as crucial for communities looking to attract new businesses and support existing growth. Upgrading outdated water mains, rehabilitating sewer lines, improving pump stations, and enhancing treatment plants are among the types of projects that will be supported. These improvements not only ensure reliable essential services for residents but also create the necessary infrastructure capacity for commercial and industrial development.

The new round of RIA grants will be distributed in two phases during this fiscal year, with the first application period closing in September and the second in March of 2026. The investment underscores South Carolina’s commitment to ensuring all its communities, particularly rural areas, have the foundational infrastructure needed for health, sustainability, and economic vibrancy.