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NewsSuncoast SearchlightJuly 21, 2026Sarasota County

Sarasota approves $51 million rehabilitation of 12th Street wastewater facility

The Sarasota City Commission has approved a $51 million project to modernize the 12th Street wastewater treatment facility, including replacing aging equipment and expanding capacity. The project, funded by a 20-year low-interest state loan, aims to improve infrastructure resiliency and prevent future sewage spills.

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Why It Matters

The project directly impacts city ratepayers and local water quality by upgrading critical infrastructure that has historically struggled with sewage spills during extreme weather events.

Key Facts

  • The City Commission approved a $51 million rehabilitation project for the 12th Street wastewater treatment facility.
  • The project will be financed through a 20-year, low-interest loan from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
  • Construction is scheduled to begin in the summer of 2027 and conclude by the end of 2030.
  • TLC Diversified Inc., based in Palmetto, has been hired as the project contractor.
  • The project includes tearing down three electrical buildings and consolidating them into one with a new backup generator.
  • The city will rebuild three existing clarifiers and add a fourth to improve solid particle removal.
  • Deteriorating piping and pumps will be replaced to address sewage pollution issues.
  • The facility was overwhelmed by Hurricane Debby in August 2024, resulting in a 17-million-gallon wastewater spill.
  • The upgrades are part of a long-term infrastructure plan intended to maintain city sustainability through 2055.

Who's Mentioned

organizationSarasota City Commission“The governing body that approved the project funding.”location12th Street wastewater facility“The specific site undergoing rehabilitation.”