Buildings Hardening Project General Maintenance Department (GMD), the South Cross Bayou Advanced Water Reclamation(SCBAWRF) Public Education Center (PEC), and SCBAWRF Dewatering Building

This project involves enhancing the structural resilience of three key facilities operated by Pinellas Utilities in Florida, specifically the General Maintenance Department Operations Center, the South Cross Bayou Advanced Water Reclamation Facility Public Education Center, and the SCBAWRF Dewatering Building. The scope includes the selective removal and replacement of exterior windows, doors, and louvers with upgraded, wind-resistant components designed to withstand wind speeds up to a Category 4 hurricane, significantly improving their current Category 2 ratings. Additionally, the project entails replacing roofing materials at the PEC and GMD Operations Center to further bolster their durability against severe storms. Funded in part by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Resilient Florida Grant, the work must be completed by June 30, 2026, ensuring the facilities can continue to operate safely and support emergency response efforts during major storms. The primary goal of these improvements is to maintain continuous facility operation, safeguard staff, and enable rapid deployment of maintenance and emergency equipment during severe weather events. The contract, valued between five and ten million dollars, was publicly solicited with a response deadline of August 29, 2024. The project emphasizes resilience and operational continuity, ensuring that wastewater treatment and related services remain functional during and after a Category 4 or lower storm. The solicitation is managed by Pinellas Utilities, with Michelle Jurek serving as the primary contact for inquiries.