Winter Springs Breaks Ground on New East Water Reclamation Facility
The city has broken ground on its largest infrastructure project to date, a new East Water Reclamation Facility. Here is what the project includes, how it is being paid for, and what happens next.
The City of Winter Springs has broken ground on a new East Water Reclamation Facility, the start of what the city describes as the largest infrastructure project in its history.
What the project is
The project replaces the city's aging East wastewater treatment plant. The Commission gave final approval in March 2026 at a guaranteed maximum price of $65.8 million, which the city reported came in under budget, with a $5.5 million contingency set aside. The construction contractor is Wharton Smith. Substantial completion is targeted for October 2028. A replacement of the West plant is planned as the next phase.
Operation of the city's wastewater and reclaimed water systems changed hands in the fall of 2025, when Woodard & Curran took over from the previous operator, Veolia.
Why it is being built
The rebuild follows years of documented problems with the city's wastewater system. In January 2021, a reclaimed water spill at the east plant caused a fish kill in a retention pond, and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection cited 24 possible violations that resulted in fines. State audits in 2023 examined the city's water and wastewater operations. Residents and community groups had raised concerns about drinking water and wastewater infrastructure for years leading up to the state's involvement.
How it is funded
The project draws on several sources. Low-interest State Revolving Fund loans cover $5.4 million for design and $54.1 million for construction. The city also secured $19.1 million tied to Hurricane Helene and Milton recovery, a portion carrying 50 percent principal forgiveness, along with a separate $600,000 grant.
What happens next
With the East plant underway, the West plant replacement is the next phase. As with any project of this size, the questions ahead are about construction timeline, cost management, and the condition of the rest of the city's water and wastewater infrastructure.
We will continue to follow the project as construction moves forward and report on what it means for the community.
