EXPANDING INFRASTRUCTURE FOR GROWTH “Our biggest infrastructure project right now is a new 1-million-gallon-a-day water reclamation facility,” city manager Priscilla Murphy explains, introducing the city’s leadership proactive plan to expand and upgrade critical infrastructure to support its burgeoning population and industrial sectors. This state-of-the-art facility, set to come online in the first quarter of 2025, will be expandable to 4 million gallons per day, strategically located near the interstate and the city’s industrial parks. “We built that with the hopes of finishing out those industrial parks in the area,” she adds, signaling the city’s intent to support ongoing industrial growth, particularly with the inland port development on the horizon. Residential growth, driven by the city’s attractive school system, is another factor shaping Jefferson’s infrastructure needs.The existing water reclamation plant is upgrading to manage the influx of new residents better. Additionally, the city is working in partnership with the Jackson County Water Sewer Authority on the long-term Park Creek Reservoir project. “When we get that built, which may take about five more years, we’ll have our second water treatment plant,” she notes. In addition to these utility-focused projects, Jefferson is making strides in public safety infrastructure.“We currently have a class three ISO rating,” Murphy points out, referencing the fire department’s strong performance. The city is constructing a new fire station north of downtown to enhance emergency response.This station will provide quicker response times to residents and the large commercial area along Interstate 85, including 75 industrial and commercial businesses. ENHANCING CIVIC LIFE: RECREATION, LIBRARIES, AND A PROUD LEGACY “We have a fantastic recreation department,” the community relations director Michele Head shares, 194 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10
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