Tampa Republic

After four years of construction, Tampa is set to have one of the longest wastewater pipelines in the country. The new microtunnel, which will run 60 feet below the water surface of Tampa Bay, will replace an aging pipeline that has been in service since 1951. It is expected to carry nearly one-third of all City of Tampa wastewater.

"The Tampa's Wastewater Department is hitting major milestones as we work toward updating and upgrading our infrastructure," said Eric Weiss, Director of Wastewater for the City of Tampa. "While we are usually out of sight and out of mind, it is critical to keep investing in our infrastructure to continue to provide both reliable and sustainable services now and for future generations."

The new microtunnel consists of 7,800 linear feet of pipeline that originates at the wastewater treatment facility, located at the Port of Tampa. Crews drilled 60 feet below the water surface of Tampa Bay and connected the newly constructed microtunnel 65 feet underground at Fort Cotanchobee Park. The pipeline will transmit 30%, or 15 million gallons per day, of Tampa's wastewater.

Phase One of the project, which involves connecting the microtunnel to the existing pipeline connected to the Krause Street Pumping Station on South Ashley Drive, is set to begin on Tuesday, January 30, 2024. As a result, Water Street and the intersection of Franklin Street will be closed for the duration of the work, which is expected to continue through the end of February. However, northbound and southbound traffic on Franklin Street and access to the Harbour Island Bridge will remain open. Motorists will be alerted to the closure and detour signage and traffic control devices will be in place to assist with rerouting and traffic flow.

Phase Two of the project, with an estimated cost of $83 million, is expected to begin in early March. More information regarding road or lane closures will be provided once plans have been finalized.

The new wastewater pipeline is an important investment in Tampa's infrastructure, ensuring that the city can continue to provide reliable and sustainable services for years to come.