BACKGROUND

Two hurricanes in less than two years caused catastrophic damage in the Florida Panhandle, along the Gulf of Mexico. Panama City was hit hard both times, severely damaging its 333-mile sanitary and stormwater collection system that serves more than 36,000 customers. The city’s collection system is also comprised of 4,920 active manholes and 143 lift stations that convey four million gallons of wastewater daily to two different wastewater treatment plants, which discharge into two outfalls.

Hurricane Michael in 2018 and Hurricane Sally in 2020 ripped up much of Panama City’s sewer infrastructure, causing inflow and infiltration (I&I) to increase significantly. As I&I increased, so did the sills, backups, flooding, and citizens’ complaints.

SUMMARY

The return on Panama City’s investment has been substantial. In addition to the reduction of sanitary overflows using SmartCover technology, the city has improved management practices, optimized its cleaning schedule, and significantly reduced the amount it pays in fines and penalties annually, from $600,000 in 2021 to less than $40,000 in 2023.

Interested in finding out how our SmartCover solutions can work for you? Reach out to sales@smartcoversystems.com or call (855) 291-1980.