Parsons Brinckerhoff appointed for stormwater management in US Everglades

The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) has appointed engineering and design firm Parsons Brinckerhoff to offer construction management services for the C-44 Reservoir / Stormwater Treatment Area (STA) Project in the Everglades.

Parsons Brinckerhoff will work in collaboration with the SFWMD to construct the STA to meet water quality targets in compliance with industry standards.

The project aims to develop wetlands, canals, culverts, discharge structures, and embankments to hold local runoff from the C-44 basin that usually discharges into the Indian River Lagoon and the St Lucie Estuary, polluting the water resources and affecting livelihoods and local businesses.

The STA project will treat the runoff naturally to enhance the quality of the water by reducing the level of nutrients, pesticides, herbicides and other pollutants discharged into the estuary before returning it to the C-44 canal.

The SFWMD has initiated the long-term Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) to restore, protect and preserve the water resources of central and southern Florida. The construction of the STA is a part of the CERP.

Parsons Brinckerhoff water practice senior vice president and director Paul Demit said: "The South Florida Water Management District is serving a critical role in the restoration of the Everglades. Parsons Brinckerhoff is pleased to support the district on a project that will positively impact the way of life for Floridians and improve the natural habitat for future generations."