SWFWMD, Authority to Connect Plant to Existing Water Line
The Southwest Florida Water Management District and the Peace River/Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority announced on March 5 they are working together on a project that will connect Sarasota County's Carlton Water Treatment Facility to an existing water line to the north.
This project is one component of the Regional Integrated Loop, which transmits alternative water supplies such as surface water and brackish groundwater across four counties. This pipeline will allow the authority to transport at least 10 million gallons of water per day to northern Sarasota County. With future expansions to Manatee County, this pipeline may transport up to 37 million gallons of water per day.
The Regional Integrated Loop Pipeline System will improve connectivity of regional drinking water resources, allowing water to be shared and providing back-up supplies in case of emergency. The loop system project also focuses on maximizing the use of surface water for public supply and enabling improved environmental management of our water resources, including limiting the use of groundwater from the stressed Floridan Aquifer.
This project includes above-ground storage, a pumping station, and a pipeline that stretches approximately nine miles. The pipeline will follow an established utility corridor.
The project is currently in the design phase and is scheduled to begin construction May 2010 and be complete by November 2010.
The project is expected to cost $42.5 million, half of which will be funded by the district's Manasota and Peace River Basin Boards and the Governing Board. The remaining amount will be paid for by the authority.
The authority serves Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee, and Sarasota counties as well as the City of North Port, and is responsible for developing new water supply sources and facilities to meet the needs of its customers.