DeFuniak Springs, FL
Gulf Coast Underground (GCU) led the execution of a multi-site wastewater infrastructure upgrade as part of the City of DeFuniak Springs’ Wastewater System Improvements program. Funded through the State Revolving Fund (SRF), this project focused on the rehabilitation of nine sanitary lift stations that were experiencing mechanical failure, structural deterioration, and increasing maintenance demands. The improvements were aimed at modernizing system performance, extending infrastructure life, and reducing inflow and infiltration (I&I) across the city’s collection system.
GCU was responsible for delivering complete mechanical and structural upgrades across all nine sites. Each lift station was fully bypassed to maintain continuous sewer service during construction. Existing components—including pumps, piping, rails, and tops—were removed and replaced with new submersible pump assemblies, stainless steel guide rail systems, and SCADA-ready duplex control panels. Concrete tops were poured on wet wells, and new precast valve boxes were installed at each location. Each station also received a new diesel or natural gas backup pump to enhance operational resilience.
The project also included structural improvements under live flow conditions. Work was completed with tight sequencing and strict quality control to minimize downtime and ensure all system components were properly integrated. Despite the logistical complexity of working across multiple active sites, GCU completed the project two days ahead of the 53-day contract schedule, finishing in just 51 working days.
The final contract value was $1,545,500, with over 90% of work self-performed by GCU’s in-house crews. Through the competitive prequalification process, GCU saved the City nearly $500,000 compared to the second-lowest bidder. Close coordination with the City of DeFuniak Springs, Dewberry, and equipment vendors ensured the project was executed smoothly and efficiently.
This effort highlights GCU’s ability to deliver multi-site, high-risk utility rehabilitation projects with speed, accuracy, and control. From planning to final turnover, the DeFuniak Springs Lift Station project reflects the level of professionalism, value, and quality GCU brings to every municipal infrastructure contract.
Specs
Project Data
- Start: August 2017
- Completion: October 2017
- Contract Amount: $1,545,500
- Owner: City of DeFuniak Springs
- Design Firm: Dewberry
Project Highlights
- Rehab of 9 lift stations
- Full demo, replacement, and start-up
- 158 VF of structural lining installed
- KSB pumps and backup generators added
- Duplex panels and SCADA-ready controls
- New precast valve boxes and tops poured
- Tight site access and live flow conditions
- Multi-crew, multi-trade coordination
- Completed ahead of schedule
- No interruptions to sewer service
- $500K savings vs. next lowest bidder
Contact
- Name: Eric Pitts
- Phone: 850-267-0759
- Address: 877 N County Hwy 393, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459