Palm Coast, Florida receives state funding for critical wastewater improvements

Governor Ron DeSantis signed Florida’s Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget into law, which includes $5 million for wastewater system improvements for the city of Palm Coast.

Of the $5 million allocated for wastewater infrastructure, $2.5 million will fund the construction of an equalization (EQ) tank, which will help manage peak flow and reduce the risk of overflow at Wastewater Treatment Plant 1. The remaining $2.5 million will go toward upgrades and expansion of that same facility, which is essential to supporting Palm Coast’s aging utility infrastructure and growing population.

“City Council’s top priority is our infrastructure, specifically utilities,” said City Manager Lauren Johnston in a city news release. “Much of our existing wastewater system was built decades ago, and with both system age and customer demand increasing, strategic reinvestment is necessary. The equalization tank and plant expansion will significantly improve our capacity, efficiency, and environmental resilience.”

The EQ tank will act as a buffer during high-demand periods, capturing excess flow that might otherwise strain or overwhelm the system. This not only protects public health and the environment but also positions the city to better manage emergency conditions, such as during heavy rainfall, as seen during Hurricane Milton in 2024.

These projects are central to the City’s Utility Strategic Plan, which was initiated in November 2024. The plan outlines long-term priorities based on input from City Council, city staff, local stakeholders, and residents to guide the department toward a more sustainable and reliable future. The funding included in the state budget directly supports and accelerates those strategic goals.

“The City of Palm Coast extends its sincere gratitude to Governor Ron DeSantis, Representative Sam Greco, and Senator Tom Leek for their support and leadership in securing these funds for our community,” City Manager Johnston said in a city news release. “I’d also like to extend our thanks to our City Council Members who traveled to Tallahassee to advocate for this critical funding. These appropriations help to ensure that essential services keep pace with the needs of Palm Coast’s residents today and for years to come.”