Okaloosa County has taken a significant step toward expanding its wastewater treatment capacity by issuing an “Intent to Award” to J&P Construction Co. for the construction of the Shoal River Ranch Water Reclamation Facility (SRRWRF).

• The decision comes after J&P Construction was determined to be the lowest responsive bidder in a competitive sealed bid process.

“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.”

The $40.8 million facility will be built on 20 acres of designated property at the Shoal River Ranch, located east of Crestview and south of U.S. Highway 90. The initial phase will have the capacity to process 1.25 million gallons of wastewater per day, with some components designed for higher capacity to allow for future expansion.

According to county officials, the SRRWRF will include state-of-the-art components, related infrastructure, on-site effluent disposal, and future public access reclaimed water for irrigation and industrial use. The project aims to allow new subdivisions in this area to use public sewer systems instead of septic tanks.

• The overall program also includes the construction of a site access road and extensions of water, sewer, and fiber lines.

Funding for the plant comes from multiple sources, including federal and state grants, as well as a state legislative appropriation.

County staff anticipates finalizing outside funding sources and executing a contract with J&P Construction this fall. Construction is expected to begin soon after, pending permits, with completion projected for late 2026.

Mixon emphasized the importance of the facility, stating, “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.”