Project Purpose

• Develop the site for a new vacuum sewer pump station as part of a project to improve sewer service system in the Palm River community.
• Hillsborough County is undertaking a significant multiyear initiative to safeguard groundwater and elevate the quality of our region’s natural systems. This program focuses on eliminating septic tanks in areas surrounding Tampa Bay. This proactive approach will lead to:
• Improved Community Health: By ensuring cleaner water and reducing environmental pollutants, fostering a healthier population and a more vibrant ecosystem.
• Increased Property Values: Eliminating contamination sources and promoting eco-friendly waste management solutions will boost property values and attract potential buyers and investors to the area.
• Future-Ready Infrastructure: This essential infrastructure upgrade not only addresses current needs but also prepares our community for future environmental challenges and building resilience against climate change.
• This comprehensive wastewater collection program reflects Hillsborough County’s commitment to a sustainable and thriving future for our community and the natural environment.

Proposed Project Area

• Phase 1 of the Palm River Septic-to-Sewer project is bordered by Railroad grade on the west, 78th Street on the east, Palm River on the north, and Causeway Boulevard on the south.

• Phase 1 includes approximately 1,000 residential lots that will be eligible for converting from septic systems to central sewer after construction of the new central sewer lines are complete.

The proposed vacuum pump station site is a vacant lot located at 6211 S. 12th Ave., which will be purchased by the County.

Site Benefits

• There is existing water and electricity infrastructure nearby to support the proposed pump station.

• The proposed site has sufficient space to provide vegetative buffering and screening for neighboring properties.

• The proposed site has sufficient space to provide vegetative buffering and screening for neighboring properties and is not anticipated to have any negative environmental impacts.

Proposed Improvements

The County is proposing to site a new vacuum sewer pump station at the site to support the future development of improved County sewer infrastructure for area residents and businesses.

• The pumps will be completely enclosed in a concrete-block building.
• The vacuum pump station (VPS) will minimize noise from the pumps and be designed to blend with the area.

Preliminary Site Concept

• The proposed building site is located near the intersection of Maydell Drive and 12th Avenue (east of Maydell Drive)
• The gated vacuum pump station facility will include fencing around the site and a perimeter landscape buffer.
• The proposed vacuum sewer system will be equipped with a dedicated odor control system to minimize odors.

Site Concept