Gastonia, Bessemer City partner on $2 million water project

A $2 million water project between Gastonia and Bessemer City could help spur economic development, leaders from both cities say.

The project, which began in February and was completed in October, will allow Gastonia to supply Bessemer City with up to 1.8 million gallons of water per day.

"There are so many benefits to this project from an economic development standpoint to how this increases the reliability of water utilities in the area," said Stephanie Scheringer, a division manager at Two Rivers Utilities, which oversees Gastonia's water and sewer system.

“We are excited to complete this project ahead of schedule,” said Mayor Walker E. Reid. “This project represents a significant partnership between our two municipalities to support our local economies and our region."

The project idea began with the widening of Bessemer City Road in 2010.

A Gastonia water line needed to be relocated to accommodate the road work, which led to discussions between Bessemer City and Gastonia about increasing the line size for a future water connection with Bessemer City. 

“We are excited that this project will provide for the future needs of our residents,” said Bessemer City Mayor Becky Smith. “And we are grateful for the grant funds to make it a reality.”

The two cities used $1.125 million from the North Carolina Department of Commerce, a $200,000 grant from North Carolina Commerce and an additional $200,000 from North Carolina's Golden LEAF foundation to pay most of the project's cost. 

Bessemer City, Gastonia and Gaston County each contributed $158,000 toward the project. 

The partnership creates many benefits for Bessemer City including economic development and a more effective way to handle droughts, according to Scheringer. 

"If Bessemer City's reservoir was experiencing a drought, the pump station now allows Bessemer City to lean on Gastonia for water, if needed," said Scheringer. 

Scheringer also hopes the project brings more jobs to the area.

Reach Janiya Winchester at 704-869-1842 or jwinchester@gannett.com