Learn about the project highlights, community benefits, and see a map of the project limits
Project overview
The Gibsonton Septic–to-Sewer (S2S) Conversion Project is part of a countywide program to deliver improved water and sewer service to the South County area and protect water quality in the Tampa Bay natural water systems by replacing septic systems.
Septic systems work by slowly releasing wastewater through a drain field. However, aging or failing septic systems often do not fully treat waste. This untreated waste can then migrate to nearby bays, rivers, lakes, and drinking water wells. In extreme cases, failed drain systems can result in untreated waste in yards, creating a major health hazard. Removing these aging septic systems and converting to sewer service is one way to proactively improve and protect the health of the community and our valuable waterways.
In addition to installing new wastewater pipelines throughout the community, the project will also include the construction of a new vacuum pump station at Gibsonton Elementary School and upgrades to area drinking water pipelines.
- A vacuum system is a closed system that requires no lift stations and manholes
- In a vacuum system, the house lateral uses traditional gravity flow to transport wastewater to valve pit
- The wastewater is transported directly to the vacuum station, which consists of vacuum pumps, a vacuum reservoir tank, a wastewater collection tank, wastewater pumps, and electrical controls
- Wastewater is pumped from the collection tank to the wastewater treatment plant via force main.
The Gibsonton Septic-to-Sewer Conversion Project will include hundreds of single family, multi-family, and manufactured homes, along with commercial, industrial, and institutional properties.(See the project area map below).
Project highlights
- Connecting Gibsonton area customers on septic systems to Hillsborough County’s wastewater collection and treatment system (sewer service)
- Installation of a new vacuum pump station at Gibsonton Elementary School
- Installing vacuum sewer system mains, vacuum sewer service laterals, sewage force mains and the removal and replacement of existing water mains in the Gibsonton area
- Funded through the Water Resources Capital Improvement Program, BP Economic Settlement Funds, American Rescue Plan, and a Florida Wastewater Protection Grant
Community benefits
- Eliminate failing septic systems
- Reduce maintenance and odors
- Provide more land for property improvements
- Increase property values
- Meet future water demands
- Promote economic development
- Improve quality of life
- Protect the environment
