Oakland receives $300,000 grant for water project

The town of Oakland was recently awarded a $300,000 Florida House of Representatives Local Support Grant for its water system bypass project. The grant, sponsored by Rep. Geraldine Thompson, would pay for approximately half of the estimated construction costs.

The water system serving the town of Oakland is bisected by Florida’s Turnpike and currently has only one connection to the west side of town, with a second connection eliminated by the Turnpike widening. This project would extend an additional water main from the north side of State Road 50 south under the Turnpike to John’s Landing, where it will connect to an existing water main. All easements and right of way have been acquired for the project.

Drinking water quality will be enhanced by having a loop in the water system, town officials said. Should a water main break occur, this project will offset the occurrences of complaints associated with loss of water or potential water quality issues.

“The construction of this pipeline will provide for increased water system reliability on the west side of the Turnpike/SR 50 interchange,” Public Works Director Mike Parker said. “In addition, it will provide assurance of water quality, water quantity and fire protection for our citizens in the event that interruption of the other water line takes place.”

Completion of the project is expected in the summer of 2023.