Design for the South Hillsborough Pipeline is well underway, and the 60% design report will be ready in August. This 26-mile pipeline is comprised of two segments, A and B, and will deliver up to 65 million gallons of water per day (mgd) to fast-growing southern Hillsborough County when complete in 2028.
The pipeline itself will lie within the right of way and permanent easements being acquired from property owners along the route. Temporary easements are also needed to allow adequate space and access to build the pipeline safely and efficiently.
During the preliminary design phase, engineers identified 40 easements for Segment A and 46 easements for Segment B. As the designs have become more detailed, the team identified additional temporary construction easements needed for Segment A; no additional easements are needed for Segment B.
In July, Tampa Bay Water’s board approved an increase of $5.85 million to Wade Trim’s design contract for Segment A to accommodate the property acquisition services for the additional easements. Property acquisition for the South Hillsborough Pipeline is fully funded. Tampa Bay Water and its land agents are currently working with property owners to voluntarily obtain the needed easements.
Tampa Bay Water is planning several in-person public meetings and one virtual meeting in October and November 2024 to share the 60% design plans with residents and businesses along the route. For updated information on the pipeline, visit SouthHillsboroughPipeline.com.
