ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. – St. Johns County has completed a $1,624,350 capital improvement project at the Plantation Water Treatment Plant, replacing an aging aerator structure with a reinforced concrete facility designed to withstand hurricane-force winds and improve the resiliency of the county’s drinking water system.
A new aluminum aerator resistant to hydrogen sulfide corrosion was installed as part of the project, which county officials say will reduce long-term maintenance needs by eliminating the need for regular blasting and repainting. The Office of Public Affairs produced a video highlighting the work.
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An aerator mixes air with water to remove naturally occurring hydrogen sulfide gas from well water. Although hydrogen sulfide is not a health concern, removing it improves the aesthetic quality of drinking water by eliminating the “rotten egg” odor sometimes associated with well water.
The previous metal structure had been in service for more than 40 years and was acquired by the St. Johns County Utility Department about 20 years ago.
An inspection in 2024 found the structure in an advanced state of deterioration from exposure to hydrogen sulfide and salt, and officials determined replacement of the structure and aerator was the best long-term solution.
“One of our top priorities is maintaining reliable service for our customers while proactively replacing aging infrastructure before failures occur,” Alan Flood said, senior engineer for the St. Johns County Utility Department. “Completing this project while keeping the plant operational demonstrates the dedication of our staff and project partners.”
The plant remained operational throughout construction. County crews installed the new structure and associated piping and valves while the existing aerator continued to operate; several short-term outages were required but customers continued to receive water service during the project.
County officials credited plant operators, pipeline personnel, engineers and contractors for completing the work while maintaining uninterrupted service.
They said the upgrade supports the county’s strategic plan by investing in resilient infrastructure, delivering high-quality public services and stewarding resources to meet current and future needs.