Projects aim to harden Pinellas utilities against next big storm

PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Thursday marks one year since Hurricane Helene covered parts of Pinellas County in feet of storm surge. It didn’t just take a toll on homes and businesses — infrastructure for utilities also suffered.

“Helene showed us how dangerous the storm surge can be and how it can impact our utilities infrastructure,” said Nory Hancock, deputy director of utilities for Pinellas County.

One example is the Gulf Beach Water Booster Station on Gulf Boulevard in St. Pete Beach. Hancock said the teal and white building pumps drinking water to homes and businesses. During Helene, it was no match for storm surge.

“The sea water intrusion took the station completely out. It was non-operational,” she said.

Hancock said boil water notices were issued and water pressure was low for customers. The station is back up and running, but it’s more than 50 years old and getting some major upgrades.

“So, we are looking at the proposed new station that will be going under construction next year,” Hancock said, referring to a rendering of another teal and white striped building – with a few differences.

The new facility will have a second floor, and that’s where the electrical and pumping equipment will be located. It will also have a standby generator and pumps so that if power is lost, customers won’t be impacted.

“These upgrades will provide reliable drinking water, safe drinking water, will safeguard our customers, our public health, and the environment,” said Hancock.

Another recent project is the rehab of the Oakhurst Shores Wastewater Pump Station in Seminole. Electrical panels were lifted, and valves were raised for easier access and better safety for employees. The county is waiting on a new generator to arrive for it.

Hancock said she understands the uncertainty hurricane season can bring but wants residents to know the utilities team is prepared.

“I am very sure that they will be ready. We have invested. We have added additional training here to respond when the community needs us most,” she said.

According to Hancock, the new booster station is expected to be operational in three or four years. She also urged residents to sign up for the new Pinellas County Utilities Customer Portal to get information and updates.