Orange County Utilities Receives $16 Million Grant for Wekiwa Springs Septic-to-Sewer Program

Orange County, FL – The Orange County Utilities Wekiwa Springs Septic-to-Sewer Program was recently awarded $16 million from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Wastewater Grant program. At the outset of this program in 2021, the overarching goal was to convert 2,000 homes from septic to sewer by 2030.

This grant will provide funding assistance for the conversion of the last 500 parcels in the final three neighborhoods: Lake Cortez Woods, Lake Mendelin Estates, and Wekiwa Manor. After completion of this phase, a total of 20 neighborhoods in the Wekiwa Springs basin will have been converted to a central sewer system.

“We are thrilled to receive the full $16 million grant that we requested from the FDEP,” said Orange County Utilities Director, Ed Torres. “This grant showcases the commitment of our staff to protect our natural resources and provide sustainable services to our residents.”

Septic tanks are responsible for 29% of nitrates found in Wekiwa Springs. To help improve the health of these springs, one solution is to upgrade current neighborhood septic systems to connect to a sewer system that can take wastewater to an advanced treatment facility.

“Protecting the environment and building sustainably is a top priority for Orange County,” said Mayor Jerry Demings. “Through this partnership with the FDEP, we will reduce the financial burden on homeowners while being responsible stewards of our local ecosystems. With this grant we will continue to make Orange County a safe and healthy place for generations to come.”

The Wekiwa Springs Septic-to-Sewer Program is part of Orange County’s ongoing commitment to protecting the environment and public health by improving water quality in the Wekiwa Springs basin. With the help of the FDEP grant, Orange County Utilities will continue to make significant progress towards this multiyear initiative.