Gwinnett County Sewer Master Plan

Ardurra served as a major consultant for the 2017 Sewer Master Plan for Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources (GCDWR), addressing infrastructure needs across one of Georgia's most complex wastewater systems. The extensive system encompasses over 2,715 miles of sanitary sewers, 278 miles of pressurized force mains, 220 pump stations, and three water reclamation facilities serving customers through periods of record growth and operational complexity.

The Master Plan evaluated existing and historical population trends with wastewater flows, developing future projections through 2050 to anticipate infrastructure needs and funding requirements. Maximum monthly average day wastewater flows are projected to increase from 55 MGD in 2015 to approximately 150 MGD by 2050, requiring strategic capacity planning and system optimization.

Key Master Plan Objectives:

• Developed comprehensive 2017-2050 Capital Improvements Plan totaling over $2 billion in planned improvements supporting future growth

• Projected wastewater flows from 55 MGD to 150 MGD by 2050 using GDOT Traffic Analysis Zone population estimates and historical flow analysis

• Evaluated complex interconnected system providing operational flexibility and redundant capacity across 2,715+ miles of collection infrastructure

• Conducted InfoSWMM hydraulic modeling, identifying gravity sewer and force main capacity deficiencies requiring systematic upgrades

• Developed a flow management model to monitor future increases and needed treatment capacity improvements at specific facilities

• Coordinated with Metro North Georgia Water Planning District, ensuring regional planning consistency and stakeholder alignment

• Created funding schedule and phased rate strategy, anticipating cash flow requirements, sustaining long-term improvement implementation

The Master Plan provides Gwinnett County with a strategic roadmap for optimizing its wastewater system while supporting economic development and environmental protection. Comprehensive asset management programs and proactive capacity planning enable continued high-quality service delivery while minimizing operational risks and costs throughout the planning period.