PEARSON, Ga. (WALB) - After years of water system failures that led to boil water advisories, burst pipes, and even school cancellations, Pearson residents were given a renewed sense of hope.

County leaders on Tuesday accepted a $1 million, fully grant-funded award from the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority, aimed at addressing long-standing water and sewer problems in the city.

Atkinson County officials say years of infrastructure neglect and missing financial audits left Pearson unable to qualify for critical funding on its own, prompting the county to step in and take over the system.

For residents like Barbara Douglas, the announcement brought both relief and reflection.

“When the advisory comes in, you go, ‘Oh my. Now I’ve got to boil water. I have to go buy extra water,” Douglas said. “Some people, especially in their older days, have health issues. Even when they lift the advisory, you still don’t trust it. It’s put fear in some and mistrust in others.”

Douglas said the funding represents more than just repairs.. it represents answered prayers.

“We got His answer to prayers,” she said. “It gives people hope. For some, it increased their faith to know He hears us, He sees us, and He still loves us. And what better time than Christmas?”

County leaders say the grant clears the way for long-delayed repairs to finally begin.

“This is a step in the right direction,” said County Chairman Parker Liles. “We were just waiting on the funds to come down from GFA. Once they’re here, we’re going to get the project started, get the ball rolling, and hopefully get the water and sewer back to where it needs to operate.”

Atkinson County officials say they are grateful for the state’s support, and many residents believe this marks the beginning of a more reliable and safer future for Pearson’s water and sewer system.

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