Boynton Beach targets stormwater resilience and I/I reduction in 2050 Comprehensive Plan

Boynton Beach targets stormwater resilience and I/I reduction in 2050 Comprehensive PlanThe Florida city is updating its long-range planning framework to address sea-level rise vulnerabilities, mandate wastewater infrastructure rehabilitation, and expand alternative water supplies for its 125,000 utility customers.

The updated Utilities Element prioritizes reducing inflow and infiltration (I/I) across 390 miles of sewer pipelines and 167 lift stations.

Stormwater upgrades will include tide-flex valves, backflow preventers, and elevated discharge structures to combat tidal flooding and sea-level rise.

The city will expand its reclaimed water network to offset potable demand from its 24 MGD East and 10.4 MGD West Water Treatment Plants.

Utilities Director Poonam Kalkat announced a temporary free chlorine flush for the distribution system scheduled from July 9 to July 30.

The City of Boynton Beach, Florida, is finalizing its 2050 Comprehensive Plan, setting a long-term strategic framework that heavily prioritizes water utility resilience, wastewater system rehabilitation, and alternative water supplies. The plan was reviewed during a June 16, 2026, City Commission workshop. Serving approximately 125,000 customers across a 25.1-square-mile collection area, the city's wastewater network includes 390 miles of pipelines and 167 lift stations that convey flows to the South-Central Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant. The updated Utilities Element establishes a clear mandate to reduce inflow and infiltration (I/I) through targeted rehabilitation of gravity mains, manholes, force mains, and lift stations. On the stormwater front, the coastal city is facing increasing pressures from sea-level rise and elevated groundwater. To mitigate tidal backflow and improve drainage efficiency, the city's capital strategy includes the installation of tide-flex valves, backflow preventers, and elevated discharge structures, alongside the integration of green infrastructure such as bioswales and pervious pavement. To safeguard its potable water supply—drawn from both the Surficial and Floridan Aquifer Systems—Boynton Beach is focusing on conservation and reuse. The city intends to expand its reclaimed water distribution network to serve additional large irrigation users, offsetting demand on its 24 MGD East Water Treatment Plant, which utilizes Magnetic Ion Exchange (MIEX) technology, and its 10.4 MGD West Water Treatment Plant, which relies on nanofiltration. In immediate operational news, Utilities Director Poonam Kalkat announced during the meeting that the city will conduct a routine free chlorine flush of its drinking water distribution system. The temporary switch from chloramine to free chlorine disinfection will take place from July 9 through July 30 to maintain infrastructure integrity and water quality.