Bradenton's Commitment to Infrastructure Improvement

The City of Bradenton is tackling its aged infrastructure head-on. As the current mayor and city council, we’ve allocated significant resources for long-term planning, engineering, and construction to address the aging infrastructure of sewer and water systems. Rooted in our community with multigenerational ties to Bradenton, we prioritize exceptional services, quality of life, civic pride, and environmental preservation.

Addressing century-old sections of our city, we’ve taken on nearly $100 million of underground utilities and wastewater treatment plant upgrades. Despite this extensive effort, we aim to minimize utility rate increases and have successfully reduced property tax rates. Recognizing that challenges accumulated over time require sustained efforts, we’ve devised a remediation plan, secured funding, and begun executing essential improvements.

In the past four years, we’ve rehabilitated 35 miles of the City’s 62-mile-long old clay sewage pipe network, addressing issues of aging, corrosion, and collapses. We’ve meticulously inspected 88% of the 1,000 identified compromised manholes among the total 4200 in the City. Additionally, we are reconstructing and, in some instances, relocating 64 City lift stations crucial for sewage transportation to the 17th Street Wastewater Treatment Plant. These lift stations, each requiring complex equipment and representing over $120 million
alone.

One pressing issue is the infiltration of rainwater into the sewage collection system, particularly during the wet seasons, which leads to overcapacity and possible discharge. However, the City has secured substantial funding through state DEP Resiliency Grants to address these challenges, marking a significant step forward in improving infrastructure and aligning with our long-term goals.

We are actively identifying the root causes of infrastructure deficiencies and investing in long-term solutions. Our efforts aim to safeguard our waterways and enhance community well-being for generations to come.