FRANKLIN COUNTY, Tenn. — The lowering of Tims Ford Lake to winter-pool levels has helped accelerate work on a major Franklin County–Winchester sewer expansion, clearing the way for contractors to install infrastructure in areas that were previously underwater.
With the lake level reduced further to accommodate a large boat-dock project, contractors are now installing sewer pipes across a section of the lake near Sharp Springs Road in Winchester. The exposed lakebed has allowed heavy equipment, including backhoes, to access the area and move forward efficiently with construction.
The sewer expansion is a $10.675 million joint project between Franklin County and the City of Winchester designed to support future industrial, residential, and commercial development. The work remains on schedule and is expected to be completed before the Sept. 30 deadline required for spending American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.
Jason Allman, assistant general manager and wastewater superintendent for Winchester Utilities, said the project has progressed smoothly. “Everything has gone according to plan,” Allman said. “We’re looking forward to wrapping this up.”
Under the agreement finalized in 2022, Winchester committed up to $6.36 million toward city sewer improvements, including upgrades to the Mountain View lift station and installation of more than 21,000 linear feet of force-main sewer line along Bible Crossing Road. The city is administering the project.
Franklin County’s $4.315 million share includes upgrades to the Modena lift station, force-main and interceptor upsizing, and extending a gravity sewer line under U.S. Highway 64 to serve the East Moon industrial property. The county’s portion is funded through its ARPA allocation.
City officials approved multiple construction contracts in 2025, including a $3.53 million low bid from Lambert Contracting LLC and a $5.38 million combined bid from LTS Construction for additional phases.
Officials say the expanded system is critical as Winchester experiences increased development and existing sewer capacity nears its limits.
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