Description of the location
Nature of the issue
- Hurricane Milton led to exceptionally high influent flows at the East Water Reclamation Facility. Beginning at 8:30 p.m. on Oct. 9, an estimated 4.2 million gallons overflowed from various processes.
Status of the issue
- Overflow ceased.
- Samples of receiving waters were collected and results are pending.
Impact of the issue
- Conservatively 4,201,000 gallons spilled ultimately into Old Tampa Bay.
Mitigation plan
- Three projects are currently underway to enhance water flow through the facility:
- East Plant WRF Filter Feed Improvements (17-0048-UT): This project is currently in the design phase.
- East Screw Lift Pump Replacement Project (22-0028-UT): This project has been awarded to TLC Diversified.
- East Plant WRF Influent Pump Station (13-0016-UT): This project has been awarded to C&T Construction.
Preliminary cost of fines and mitigation plan (rough estimate)
- FDEP possible fines $15,000
- Estimate $4,000 cost of labor and equipment.
Notifications made
- State Watch Office (SWO): 2024-9036
- Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP): 26189