06/02/2026
For generations, reliable water service has helped support the growth of Bartow County- and the foundation of that system was built through the vision and hard work of local leaders who believed in planning for the future of our community.
In the late 1960s, community leaders began working toward the creation of a county-wide water system, to support the growing needs of Bartow County. In March 1969, the Bartow County Water System was officially founded under Commissioner Wayne Self. A Water Advisory Committee was created with Frank Jolly serving as Chairman alongside committee members, Arthur Carter, Cliff Martin, Frank Kennedy, and Gene Rampley. Together, they helped guide the vision for what would become today's water system in Bartow County.
The original plans for the system began with approximately 100 miles of pipe and service for around 5,000 customers. Construction of the system was supported by a $500,000 federal grant awarded in June 1970, along with additional county funding. A groundbreaking ceremony for the new water system was held on Friday 22, 1971. Today, the Bartow County Water System has grown to nearly 1,000 miles of pipe serving more than 22,000 customers across the county.
Special thanks to Dana Rieske and the Euharlee Welcome Center and History Museum for providing access to these historical materials and preserving this important part of Bartow County history. The original artifacts and displays can be viewed at the museum for those interested in learning more about the beginnings of the Bartow County Water System.
What started as a bold vision for the future has grown into a system that now distributes millions of gallons of water each day to homes, businesses, schools, and industries throughout Bartow County. We're proud to honor the people whose dedication helped build the foundation of the system we rely on today.
