TALLAHASSEE, FL, Nov. 26, 2014 -- The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has announced that it is providing $4.75 million in funding for six major water-related projects in the Northwest region of the state. Likewise, matching local funding totaling $7.5 million will accommodate these projects involving upgrades to potable-water, wastewater and stormwater facilities in Walton, Jackson, Liberty, and Bay counties. The following describes the six ongoing projects:
Walton County: The city of DeFuniak Springs has received $417,498 to replace deteriorating water lines and water mains that are crucial to the city's water system. The project consists of replacing more than 9,800 linear feet of concrete water main with PVC pipe. This replacement will help conserve water by correcting leaks as well as improve water quality and pressure. This project is anticipated to be completed by the end of June 2015.
Jackson County: The city of Marianna will be able to continue its ongoing water transmission improvement project from a $665,000 investment. The city recently constructed a new well and elevated storage tank and replaced more than 8,500 linear feet of water main. This funding will go to the creation of a reliable water transmission main connection between the city's two elevated storage tanks. The project also includes 10 new connections to the distribution system, new fire hydrants and the replacement of approximately 3,500 linear feet of water main. This project is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2015.
Liberty County: Liberty County is currently experiencing a shortage of storage and well capacity. To address this shortage, DEP is providing $75,000 to evaluate its current storage tank and well capacity to determine how much additional well capacity can be obtained. The funding will also be used for the design and construction of additional well capacity. This project is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2015.
Bay County: The city of Mexico Beach has received funding for the construction of two new water production wells to supply an alternate water supply in the spirit of preparedness. The current water supply has to travel a considerable distance to the city and therefore is vulnerable in the case of a natural disaster. This project is valued at $1,592,309 and is anticipated to be completed in June 2016.
Additionally in Bay County are two wastewater projects to increase protection of St. Andrews Bay. One is in Southport and consists of removing septic tanks and connecting 220 residential and small commercial properties to the Bay County Utility Service. The county is providing $1,220,405, and DEP is contributing $1 million. This project is anticipated to be completed by spring 2016.
The second wastewater project is focused on the Bay County Road 388 force main. It will involve diverting wastewater flow from an old package plant to a Class-I regional wastewater treatment and reuse facility. The county is contributing $1.5 million for this project, and DEP is providing an additional $1 million. This project is anticipated to be completed by the end of November 2016.
See also:
"Miami-Dade selects program manager for 11-year Ocean Outfall Legislation Program"
"Biosolids better managed in SW Florida with new organics composting plant"
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