City Opens Second $3.2 Million Tank at Northwest Water Plant

Apopka has taken a significant step forward in bolstering its water infrastructure with the inauguration of a second $3.2 million water tank at the Myrtle Rogers Womble Northwest Water Plant.

 

This addition is designed to meet the escalating water demands of the city's expanding population.

 

The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held adjacent to Fire Station No. 5 on Jason Dwelley Parkway, marked the culmination of a four-year project.

 

The new prestressed concrete tank boasts a capacity of 1 million gallons, effectively doubling the plant's storage capabilities.

 

Funding for this project was partially secured through a $1.5 million grant obtained by former U.S. Representative Val Demings during her tenure in Congress, supplemented by city impact fees.

 

This new tank complements the existing 1-million-gallon tank, which has been operational since 1999.

 

Mayor Bryan Nelson expressed his enthusiasm at the event, stating, "We are so excited for everybody, because this is a monumental occasion that we can dedicate a new water tank for Apopka with our growth and be able to supply the needs for our residents here in Apopka."

 

Demings emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing infrastructure needs, noting that the tank's capacity is expected to serve the community for the next two decades.

 

She remarked, "This is an example of what can happen when we come together and work together and always put people first."

 

In a gesture of appreciation, Mayor Nelson presented a framed photograph from four years prior, featuring Demings alongside Apopka city officials and the substantial check she secured from Washington D.C.

 

Prior to this expansion, Apopka's five water treatment plants—Grossenbacher, Sheeler Oaks, Northwest, Mount Plymouth Lakes, and Plymouth Regional—provided a combined storage capacity of 4.75 million gallons.

 

With the addition of the new tank at the Northwest Plant and ongoing upgrades at the Grossenbacher Water Plant, the city's total capacity has increased by 32%, reaching 6.25 million gallons.

 

Vladimir Simonovski, the city's public works director and engineer, highlighted the significance of these improvements.

 

He stated, "These improvements strengthen the city’s ability to maintain reliable water service, meet growing demand, and ensure resilience during peak usage and emergency situations; therefore, providing long-term benefits for all residents and businesses in Apopka."

 

All five of Apopka's water treatment facilities source their water from the Floridan Aquifer, a vast underground reservoir spanning approximately 100,000 square miles across the southeastern United States.

 

This aquifer supplies drinking water to over 10 million people in Florida and parts of Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, and Mississippi.

 

In related developments, the city has been proactive in enhancing its water infrastructure.

 

Recently, Apopka extended an agreement with the St. Johns River Water Management District for the sixth time, allowing more time to work on a $14.5 million improvement project for the reclaimed water facility at the 103-acre Golden Gem Road property.

 

This project aims to provide 49 million gallons of reclaimed water, with potential for future expansion, and is focused on meeting regional water needs.

 

Additionally, the city has made strides in reducing water loss.

 

In 2024, Apopka was billing 34.85% less water than it produced.

 

Through initiatives such as reducing no-reads, estimated reads, and surcharged credit card purchases, as well as fining those who damage water and wastewater systems, the city has achieved a remarkable 19% reduction in water loss by 2025.

 

These concerted efforts underscore Apopka's commitment to ensuring a sustainable and reliable water supply for its residents and businesses, even as the city continues to experience rapid growth.