Okaloosa County Takes Major Step Toward New Shoal River Ranch Water Reclamation Facility

Okaloosa County has taken a major step forward in expanding wastewater treatment capacity for future north Okaloosa needs, by issuing an “Intent to Award” to J&P Construction Co. to construct the Shoal River Ranch Water Reclamation Facility (SRRWRF). J&P Construction was found to be the lowest responsive bidder, following a competitive sealed bid.

“The need and demand for sewer services for north Okaloosa residents and businesses continues to grow,” said Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon. “The plant is one of the keys for continued growth and development in the northern part of the County. It is needed for residential growth, additional affordable housing, and the development of industry and jobs at the Shoal River Ranch. We are excited to take this next step, which will provide a high level of sewer service with the latest technology, while also meeting future capacity needs.”

The SRRWRF will include all the components of a state-of-the-art, modern plant, other related infrastructure needs, on-site effluent disposal, and future public access reclaimed water for irrigation and industrial use. This environmental project will allow for new subdivisions in this portion of the county to be on public sewer, as opposed to septic tanks.

The initial phase will have the capacity to process 1.25 million gallons per day of wastewater, with some of the components having a higher capacity, to allow for easier expansion in the future. The overall program also includes a site access road, along with extensions of water, sewer, and fiber lines.

The $40.8 million plant has multiple funding sources that include federal and state grants, as well as a generous state legislative appropriation. The new plant will be built on 20 acres of designated property at the Shoal River Ranch, which is located east of Crestview south of U.S. Highway 90.

County staff anticipates firming up outside funding sources and then executing a contract with J&P Construction this fall, with construction on the plant to commence soon thereafter pending permits. The plant is expected to be completed in late 2026.