St. Johns County Advances Manhole Rehabilitation Program to Protect Utilities Infrastructure

• 29 September 2025
• Category: SJC News Infrastructure
• Tags: 2025

Utilities proactively managing systems and resources

St. Johns County is making significant progress on its Manhole Rehabilitation Program, an ongoing capital improvement effort to preserve sewer infrastructure, extend the lifespan of utility systems, and protect water resources. The Office of Public Affairs produced a video to highlight the progress thus far.

The program focuses on inspecting, repairing, and rehabilitating manholes throughout the county to address the effects of aging infrastructure and corrosion. Over time, sewer gases can deteriorate concrete structures, and with Florida’s high groundwater levels, infiltration can occur. This not only damages infrastructure but also risks overwhelming wastewater treatment facilities.

“We’re really ahead of the curve in Florida by consistently inspecting and rehabilitating manholes across the County,” said Chris Cannan, St. Johns County Utilities Capital Projects Manager. “These structures belong to our residents, and it’s our responsibility to maintain them for longevity and the health of the overall system.”

The Manhole Rehabilitation Program is part of the Utilities Department’s ongoing investment in critical infrastructure. Regular inspections help identify structures in need of repair, while dedicated funding ensures the County can continue improvements each year. The program is also designed to prevent unnecessary strain on wastewater treatment plants, allowing the county to properly size and plan facilities to meet future growth.

For more information on St. Johns County Capital Improvement Projects, visit the Featured Projects web page.