Hwy 47 Utility Project

The City of St. Francis is undertaking a vital water and sewer infrastructure project to replace and expand its trunk lines, ensuring the system can meet current and future demands. As a metropolitan area, St. Francis is responsible for its own water treatment and wastewater collection, maintaining 19.5 miles of sewer main, 10 lift stations, and treatment facilities. This project will replace an aging infrastructure line spanning over a mile and expand it northward to serve new residential and business developments.

Constructed in 1973 for a population of 900, the existing system cannot adequately support the city’s growth to over 8,300 residents. Increased population and commercial activity have placed significant strain on water and sewer systems. A recently completed water and sewer plan identified this upgrade as critical for ensuring reliable, high-quality utility services. The current trunk lines are operating near capacity, hindering the city’s ability to accommodate growth or support economic development.

The project focuses on replacing outdated infrastructure, expanding capacity for new developments, and future-proofing the system to meet long-term growth demands. By upgrading the infrastructure, St. Francis will enhance residents’ quality of life and position itself for sustainable growth and economic opportunity. The estimated cost to extend the lines to the city’s border is $8.7 million. However, the city plans to extend the infrastructure only to 241st Avenue, reducing costs to just over $6 million. Coordinating this extension with a planned highway project along Hwy 47 will optimize efficiency and minimize disruption.

Extending the line to 241st Avenue is essential for unlocking the development potential of 128 acres designated for residential use and 77 acres planned for a business park. The project also supports the city’s main commercial district, residential subdivisions, and neighboring communities like Oak Grove. Without this upgrade, the trunk line lacks the capacity to meet current demands, let alone future growth.

The city will finance the project through bonds, resulting in a potential 30% increase in water and sewer rates for users. Financial assistance is critical to mitigate this burden and ensure fiscal health. Timing is crucial, as aligning construction with the highway project will reduce costs and disruption. This project represents a significant investment in St. Francis’s future, ensuring the city can thrive while maintaining its commitment to reliable, high-quality utility services.