Gaffney BPW

Gaffney BPW Municipal Water Report Info
Since its initial demonstration in 1907, the Board of Public Works has aimed to deliver efficient water, sewer, and electrical services to Gaffney and surrounding Cherokee County areas at reasonable rates. Through decades of growth, the Board has modernized its infrastructure and expanded services, now serving more than 23,600 customers in total.

Water Supply: The water division currently provides service to approximately 9,500 residential, commercial, and industrial customers. A pumping station on the Broad River directs water to Lake Whelchel (the primary source) or directly to the Victor Gaffney and Cherokee Water Treatment Plants. This infrastructure ensures adequate water availability well into the next century. The Board maintains a total treatment capacity of 18 million gallons daily, plus over 200 miles of water lines, four elevated storage tanks (including the iconic Peachoid), and 2 million gallons of ground-level storage.

Wastewater Management: The wastewater division serves roughly 6,850 customers throughout the Gaffney area. Two treatment facilities are in operation: the Clary Plant (3.6 million gallons daily capacity) and the Broad River Plant (3.5 million gallons daily). An expansion of the Broad River facility to 4.0 million gallons daily is currently under construction. The system includes over 130 miles of sewer lines.

Electrical Services: The electrical division delivers power to approximately 7,300 customers via 130 miles of lines. The system's exceptional reliability stems from comprehensive preventative maintenance and year-round response programs. Wholesale power from Piedmont Municipal Power Agency (PMPA) flows through three distribution points, one owned by the Board. Gaffney partners with 9 other upstate cities in PMPA, which owns 25% of Catawba Nuclear Plant's Unit #2.

Customer Service: The Board prides itself on responsive service, typically addressing service requests within 24-48 hours. For area businesses, the electrical department offers comprehensive lighting packages with upfront project funding, equipment, maintenance, and energy at a fixed monthly rate. The Board actively works to attract new businesses to the service area. General Manager Donnie L. Hardin can be reached at (864) 488-8800 or dhardin@gbpw.com.

Over decades of operation, Gaffney Board of Public Works has established itself as a leader in reliable, competitive utility services throughout Upstate South Carolina. Their long-term planning and community investment have positioned them as a utility authority across the Southeast.

Recreational Facilities: As part of their community commitment, the Board offers several recreational venues for Cherokee County residents, including Lake Whelchel with picnic facilities and boat access, plus a rifle and pistol range. For information on these facilities, please call (864) 488-8800.