PWC Breaks Ground On Granular Activated Carbon Water Treatment Project

October 26, 2026

Major infrastructure investment will strengthen drinking water treatment capabilities and address PFAS contamination 

PWC marked a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to drinking water quality on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, with a groundbreaking ceremony for its new Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) treatment facility at the P.O. Hoffer Water Treatment Facility. 

Secretary D. Reid Wilson of the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality joined the PWC Board of Commissioners along with members of the state legislative delegation, Cumberland County Commissioners, the Mayor of Fayetteville and members of the city council to celebrate PWC’s next step in continuing to provide drinking water that meets and exceeds all state and national standards.  

The GAC project is part of PWC’s long-term strategy to address per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” in the Cape Fear River, the utility’s primary drinking water source. Following extensive research and testing conducted between October 2021 and October 2022, PWC identified GAC as the most effective treatment method for removing PFAS from its drinking water. 

“This groundbreaking represents a significant investment in the future of drinking water quality for Fayetteville, Cumberland County and the whole region,” said Timothy Bryant, P.E., CEO/General Manager of Fayetteville PWC. “PWC’s commitment to providing safe, reliable, and affordable drinking water extends beyond meeting today’s standards. This project reflects years of research, planning, and collaboration to implement advanced treatment technology that will benefit customers and the community for generations to come.” 

The project will add advanced filtration capabilities designed to remove PFAS and strengthen PWC’s ability to meet federal drinking water standards. While permanent GAC facilities are being developed, PWC has also completed upgrades to its existing Powdered Activated Carbon (PAC) treatment capabilities to help address PFAS in the interim. 

“Responsible stewardship requires making thoughtful investments that protect essential services and prepare for future challenges,” said Ronna Rowe Garrett, Chair of the Fayetteville PWC Board of Commissioners. “This project reflects PWC’s continued focus on public health, infrastructure reliability, and the long-term interests of the community. The Board remains committed to supporting improvements that strengthen water quality while maintaining accountability to the customers PWC serves.” 

The project also reflects the importance of partnerships and outside funding in advancing critical water infrastructure improvements. PWC continues to pursue state and federal funding opportunities to help minimize the financial impact on customers. 

The P.O. Hoffer Water Treatment Facility also holds historical significance in addressing PFAS contamination. In April 2024, the facility hosted the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s announcement of the first national, legally enforceable drinking water standards for PFAS. 

PWC has advocated for over a decade for reducing and preventing industrial pollutants, including PFAS, from entering the Cape Fear River. The GAC project represents another significant step in addressing these contaminants through advanced treatment technology. 

For more information about PWC’s efforts to address PFAS and improve drinking water treatment, visit Granular Activated Carbon System.

Video montage: https://faypwc.vids.io/videos/4899d8b21e1ce8cec2/gac-groundbreaking

Media Contact:
Lamont Hinson  
Community Relations Specialist  
Lamont.Hinson@FayPWC.com