TITUSVILLE, FL – The City of Titusville is gearing up for the commencement of the Indian River Force Main Project, slated to begin on Monday, August 7.

This significant infrastructure project will involve the replacement of roughly 8,000 feet of the existing sewer force main, stretching from South Street to the Osprey Water Reclamation Facility on Buffalo Road in the northern part of the city.

The replacement work will kick off at the juncture of South Street and Indian River Avenue. From there, it will extend northward, passing beneath landmarks such as the Max Brewer Causeway, U.S. Highway 1, and even a segment of the FEC railroad, culminating at the Osprey Facility.

Residents and businesses should be aware that certain road closures will be implemented during the construction phase. While these roads will be closed to through traffic, they will remain accessible to local residents and businesses. The city’s Public Works department is collaborating closely with the contractor to ensure that the impact of these closures is minimized.

Road closures will be restricted to specific block segments at any given time, and the city will provide at least 36 hours’ notice of any impending closures via its official website and social media channels. Residents are encouraged to stay updated by regularly checking the city’s website.

The current force main comprises 12-inch thin-wall PVC piping and a 14-inch cast iron section. Its outdated size has limited wastewater flow, and the cast iron segment has been prone to corrosion over time. The new 16-inch PVC piping will adhere to contemporary sizing standards, significantly reducing the risk of malfunctions.

Notably, a considerable portion of the old main is situated close to the Indian River Lagoon on the east side of Indian River Avenue and U.S. 1. In contrast, the new main will be positioned on the west side, further from the lagoon.

Kevin Cook, Titusville’s Public Works Director, emphasized the project’s environmental significance, stating, “This is just one more step in protecting the Indian River Lagoon. The upgraded pipe will not only enhance service to our customers but will also play a crucial role in safeguarding the lagoon from potential hazards.”

This initiative is a part of Titusville’s proactive approach to infrastructure enhancement, aimed at mitigating the risks associated with pipe breaks and leaks. A rupture in a section of the old main in late 2020 resulted in a sewer spill that adversely affected nearby stormwater ponds and the lagoon.

This project is a direct response to the Consent Order stipulations set by Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection following that incident.

The Indian River Force Main Project, with a budget allocation of $9,528,453 from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund Loan Program, is expected to reach completion by year’s end.