Shady Hills Septage and Food Sludge Receiving and Processing Facility

Ardurra delivered professional engineering services for the transformative Shady Hills Sub-regional WWTP expansion from 2 MGD to 14 MGD, representing one of Florida's most complex wastewater facility upgrades. The $70 million project required complete infrastructure replacement and expansion while maintaining continuous operations without interruption to existing facility service.

The extensive expansion included new headworks with mechanical screens and grit removal, four anoxic basins, three aeration basins with dissolved-oxygen control, four 80-foot clarifiers, five deep-bed multimedia filters, and comprehensive reclaimed water systems. Strategic contractor engagement throughout the design phases resulted in six competitive bids, with the two lowest bids within 0.75% of each other, demonstrating effective market preparation.

Key Project Achievements:

• Expanded facility from 2 MGD to 14 MGD through comprehensive infrastructure replacement, including new headworks, biological treatment, and filtration systems

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  Maintained continuous operations during the entire $70 million construction without interrupting existing facility service to the community

• Secured six competitive bids through proactive contractor engagement with 12 large construction firms throughout the design and permitting phases

• Achieved $600,000 sales tax savings through Owner Direct Purchase program administration for $11 million in contractor-procured equipment

• Constructed comprehensive infrastructure, including a 32 MGD effluent transfer pump station, a 5 MG ground storage tank, and a 24 MGD reclaimed water system

• Implemented advanced treatment processes featuring anoxic basins, aeration with DO control, internal recycle pump stations, and deep bed filtration

• Provided complete commissioning services through comprehensive log monitoring, calibrations, testing, certifications, training, and startup requirements

The expansion provides Pasco County with enhanced wastewater treatment capacity, supporting regional growth while demonstrating exceptional project management and operational continuity. Strategic procurement management and comprehensive commissioning ensure optimal facility performance and substantial cost savings for the community.