South Cross Bayou Advanced Water Reclamation Facility Denitrification Improvement Project

Overview

This project will rehabilitate the South Cross Bayou Advanced Water Reclamation Facility’s filtration system by replacing large valves, media, pumps, flowmeters and underdrain piping that feeds the system to better conduct the denitrification process, which removes nitrogen and releases clean water back to nature. While wastewater contains nitrogen, often from food waste, large amounts of nitrogen entering our local bodies of water (rivers, creeks, lakes, etc.) can cause algae bloom and kill fish/wildlife.

Goals

• Ensure treated water meets regulatory nitrogen limits set by Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
• Reduce nitrogen pollution in our community preventing algae blooms and protecting fish and wildlife.
• Protect tourism and fishing industries by maintaining the ecosystem.
• Upgrade aging infrastructure to prevent system failures that could lead to emergency spills around our service area.

Timeline

Construction has been in progress since August 2023 and is scheduled to conclude in October 2026.

Funding Sources

• American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding
• Construction/Capital Improvement Funds