Tampa Republic

After four years of construction, a major wastewater project to replace an aging 54-inch force main is nearing completion. The new pipeline, extending approximately 13,700 linear feet, now runs from the Howard F. Curren Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant and connects to a pipeline under South Franklin Street. All wastewater flow from the force main on Harbour Island has been diverted to the new infrastructure.

Formally called a 'microtunnel,' the new 78-inch diameter pipeline extends from the wastewater treatment plant at Port Tampa Bay to Cotanchobee Park. Crews drilled 60 feet below the water surface to directionally drill the pipeline under Tampa Bay. The microtunnel transports 30%, or 15 million gallons per day, of Tampa's wastewater. The $83 million project is the third largest microtunnel of its kind in North America and was funded through the City of Tampa's PIPES Program (Progressive Infrastructure Plan to Ensure Sustainability).

"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."

In March 2024, construction began to connect the new pipeline to the existing one on Franklin Street and Water Street. To facilitate this work, a section of Franklin and Water Streets was closed. Water Street has since reopened, and restoration of Franklin Street has begun. The completion date for this restoration is Friday, June 7, 2024, weather permitting.

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