Project Background

The Tampa Bay Water board of directors selected the Morris Bridge Sink Permanent Emergency Water Supply project in June 2001 as part of the second phase of the region's Master Water Plan.

The Morris Bridge Sink project involves the installation of a permanent emergency facility at property owned by the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) at the Sink, which is located in Hillsborough County. An underground pipeline would be constructed to convey the emergency water to the Tampa Bypass Canal where it could be accessed by Tampa Bay Water’s regional facilities or by the city of Tampa.

Project to be Tapped Only During Extreme Water Shortages

Unlike other Master Water Plan projects, the Morris Bridge Sink Permanent Emergency Water Supply project would only be tapped in extreme water shortages. A review of the region’s historical drought record shows conditions that could trigger emergency pumping from Morris Bridge Sink have occurred approximately 10 percent of the time. However, when droughts do occur, the ability to draw quickly on emergency supplies is crucial.

Emergency Supply Assures Drinking Water During Drought

A project that could provide additional water during water emergencies would help the region more effectively manage water supplies during future droughts and water shortages. Such long-term planning helps assure drinking water for the region, protecting the public’s health and safety, even in periods of extreme drought.