Why Install Permanent Facilities?

Dependability -- Permanent facilities are more reliable than temporary facilities. A design specific to meet the need, regular maintenance and testing ensures reliability. A number of shutdowns due to pump failure, pump change-out, and other factors were experienced during the emergency period. The longest of these was a 25-day shut-down.

Quick Response Time -- Permanent facilities could be switched on immediately in response to an emergency condition. Temporary facilities must be re-installed each time an emergency arises resulting in lost time and the potential that an emergency may become a crisis in the time it takes to install temporary facilities.

Neighbor Complaints -- Neighbor complaints about the temporary facilities included noise; the unsightly above-ground pipeline; substantially increased traffic due to installation, operations and maintenance; the need for round-the clock police security onsite; and domestic well problems. Permanent facilities would use electric pumps and be virtually noiseless; pipelines would be below ground; operation and maintenance traffic would be minimal since the facilities could be operated remotely. The facilities would be secure and not require a police officer stationed on site during use. Domestic well problems during operation of these facilities would be minimized or eliminated by retrofitting at-risk private wells before the installation of permanent emergency facilities.

Drought Preparedness -- Permanent facilities will allow Tampa Bay Water to be better prepared in a water emergency situation. This reduces the chances of an emergency becoming a crisis. This emergency supply would only be operated if specific hydrologic parameters are met.