The Fayetteville Public Works Commission (PWC) was honored to welcome North Carolina State Senator Tom McInnis and North Carolina State Representative Diane Wheatley to Alderman Road Elementary School on Friday, Aug. 14, 2026, to celebrate the successful completion of the Gray's Creek Water Main Extension Project, connecting Alderman Road Elementary School and Gray’s Creek Elementary School to PWC’s award winning public water system and recognizing the transformative impact of the State’s investment in the community. 

The visit highlighted the project’s significance to Gray’s Creek residents, students and businesses while recognizing the North Carolina General Assembly’s commitment to expanding access to safe, reliable, regulated drinking water. Through a partnership between Fayetteville PWC and Cumberland County, the General Assembly provided $12 million in state funding to design and construct the initial phase of the project. 

The completed project extends PWC’s public water system to Gray’s Creek Elementary School, Alderman Road Elementary School and surrounding areas, providing customers with drinking water that meets or exceeds state and federal water quality standards. The new infrastructure represents a long-term investment in public health, environmental stewardship and the continued growth of the Gray’s Creek community. 

“This project represents far more than the installation of new water lines, it reflects our shared commitment to protecting public health, investing in critical infrastructure, and improving the quality of life for the Gray’s Creek community,” said CEO/General Manager of Fayetteville PWC Timothy Bryant in a press release.

Originally announced in 2024, the partnership between PWC and Cumberland County was established to provide a long-term public water solution for residents affected by Gen X contamination in private wells while ensuring area schools and future customers have access to high-quality drinking water. Construction began in late 2025 and has now been successfully completed. 

“We appreciate the partnership of Fayetteville PWC, our state leaders and everyone who helped make this important project possible for our schools and community,” said Dr. Eric C. Bracy, superintendent of Cumberland County Schools, in a press release. 

The Gray's Creek Water Main Extension Project demonstrates what can be accomplished through collaboration among local and state leaders committed to investing in infrastructure that serves both current and future generations. 

PWC remains committed to delivering safe, reliable and sustainable utility services while supporting the continued growth and well-being of Cumberland County.