Tetra Tech Secures Major Contract to Support Advanced Wastewater Treatment Expansion in Florida
Tetra Tech, Inc., a globally recognized leader in consulting and engineering services focused on water, the environment, and sustainable infrastructure, announced a significant new contract with Orange County Utilities (OCU) in Florida. The agreement outlines a comprehensive plan to expand the capacity and capabilities of the Eastern Water Reclamation Facility (EWRF), which is one of the region’s most critical infrastructure assets, serving a large and rapidly growing population near Orlando.
The EWRF, located in the heart of Orange County’s 451-square-mile service area, plays a pivotal role in treating wastewater for residential, commercial, and industrial customers. As Central Florida continues to experience robust population growth and urban development, the demands on its wastewater systems have grown substantially. OCU, recognizing the need to stay ahead of these challenges, has turned to Tetra Tech to deliver innovative, science-driven solutions that will not only expand the facility’s capacity but also improve operational efficiency, environmental sustainability, and long-term resilience.
Addressing Rapid Population Growth with Science-Based Solutions
Tetra Tech’s involvement will include comprehensive engineering design and technical services aimed at upgrading and expanding the facility’s wastewater treatment capabilities. The project is expected to deliver a substantial increase in EWRF’s treatment capacity, helping the utility keep pace with increasing wastewater flows from residential developments, commercial areas, and critical industries.
The upgrades will support Orange County’s broader goals of ensuring high-quality wastewater treatment, minimizing environmental impacts, and preparing for future climate-related challenges such as flooding and storm surge events. Advanced modeling tools will be deployed by Tetra Tech’s technical specialists to assess current operations and forecast future system demands. These tools will help optimize treatment processes, reduce energy consumption, and improve overall operational performance.
The project also includes the development of detailed engineering designs and technical specifications to guide construction and implementation phases. The expansion is expected to incorporate state-of-the-art technology in water reclamation, biological treatment processes, nutrient removal, and energy efficiency improvements.
A Longstanding Partnership with a Focus on Innovation
Tetra Tech and Orange County Utilities share a long-standing collaborative relationship that spans nearly two decades. Over the years, the two organizations have worked together on a range of water and wastewater projects that have delivered significant benefits to local communities. This new contract represents a continuation of that trusted partnership and underscores Tetra Tech’s reputation for delivering value through technical excellence and innovative design.
“For almost 20 years, Tetra Tech has provided Orange County Utilities with innovative and efficient water and wastewater infrastructure solutions,” said Dan Batrack, Chairman and CEO of Tetra Tech. “We look forward to continuing to use our Leading with Science® approach to support the rapid growth in Orange County and provide its customers with high quality and resilient water supplies.”
Batrack’s statement highlights the company’s commitment to leveraging scientific expertise and technical knowledge to address pressing infrastructure challenges. Tetra Tech’s “Leading with Science®” philosophy is more than a tagline—it reflects the firm’s integrated approach to problem-solving, which combines data-driven decision-making, cutting-edge modeling techniques, and sustainable engineering practices.
Expanding the Eastern Water Reclamation Facility: What It Means for Florida
The expansion of the EWRF is not only a critical infrastructure investment for Orange County, but it also serves as a model for how municipalities across the United States can adapt to growth and environmental pressures. The facility currently treats millions of gallons of wastewater daily, returning safe, treated water to the environment and supporting beneficial reuse programs such as irrigation and groundwater recharge.
As demands increase, the enhancements provided by Tetra Tech will ensure that the facility can continue to meet and exceed regulatory requirements for water quality and environmental protection. Florida, known for its unique and sensitive ecosystems, places a high priority on minimizing the environmental footprint of wastewater treatment operations. The upgraded EWRF will be better equipped to manage nutrient levels, especially nitrogen and phosphorus, which are critical to preventing harmful algal blooms and protecting aquatic ecosystems such as the nearby St. Johns River Basin.
Additionally, energy efficiency improvements will help reduce the facility’s carbon footprint. This aligns with Orange County’s broader sustainability goals, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and building climate-resilient infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather events.
Technical Excellence Driving Environmental Stewardship
Tetra Tech’s role in the EWRF expansion goes beyond traditional engineering. The company is known for its holistic approach to infrastructure projects, which integrates environmental stewardship with technical performance. By employing digital tools such as geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and artificial intelligence (AI)-powered modeling, Tetra Tech is able to simulate a range of scenarios and develop solutions that balance cost, environmental impact, and operational reliability.
One of the most notable aspects of the project will be the application of advanced treatment technologies that allow for higher levels of nutrient removal. These systems are essential in regions like Florida where nutrient pollution poses a serious threat to water bodies and wetlands. Tetra Tech’s solutions will help OCU comply with both current and anticipated regulatory standards, ensuring the facility remains in line with future environmental policies.
Moreover, the project will likely contribute to local workforce development. With the expansion and upgrade requiring a broad range of skills—from civil and environmental engineering to automation and construction management—the initiative presents opportunities for local professionals and contractors to participate in a major infrastructure program that has lasting community benefits.
A Model for Future Wastewater Infrastructure
The success of this project could influence similar efforts across the state and beyond, particularly as utilities nationwide grapple with aging infrastructure, increased demand, and climate change pressures. As communities grow, so too must their infrastructure—and this project showcases how thoughtful, science-based planning can ensure that growth is managed in a sustainable and environmentally responsible way.
Tetra Tech’s newly awarded contract with Orange County Utilities marks a significant milestone in the evolution of Florida’s wastewater infrastructure. It underscores the critical role of engineering innovation in supporting resilient communities and advancing environmental goals. Through strategic planning, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to excellence, Tetra Tech is poised to help shape the future of water infrastructure not only in Orange County, but in communities facing similar challenges across the United States.
