Jacobs Wins Bid for PFAS Water Treatment Upgrades in Boynton Beach

Jacobs Selected for Water Treatment Improvements in Boynton Beach

In a significant move towards addressing water quality issues, Jacobs has been chosen by the City of Boynton Beach, Florida, to spearhead upgrades at two of its water treatment facilities. This project, announced on February 6, 2025, focuses primarily on the removal of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from the local groundwater supply, in line with new federal drinking water regulations.

The two treatment plants have a combined capacity of 30 million gallons per day and currently supply drinking water to over 112,000 residents in Boynton Beach. As the community grows, so too does the demand for clean and safe drinking water. The upgrades being planned not only aim to comply with recent PFAS regulations but also target the replacement of outdated infrastructure that has been in place for years.

Katus Watson, Jacobs' Senior Vice President, expressed confidence in the partnership with Boynton Beach, stating, "Considering potential federal compliance deadlines, we're working with the City of Boynton Beach to ensure an effective and long-term PFAS treatment and disposal solution." Jacobs has been collaborating with Boynton Beach for over 40 years, meaning they bring a wealth of experience to this vital project.

At the outset, Jacobs will assess the existing treatment capabilities of the city’s facilities, focusing on PFAS removal effectiveness. The team will then develop a comprehensive facility improvement plan that will also address the management of associated water sources and any residuals generated during the treatment process. After finalizing this plan, Jacobs will proceed to design the necessary enhancements and oversee the construction phases.

To facilitate this ambitious endeavor, the City of Boynton Beach has secured financial backing through a loan from Florida’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Program, emphasizing the project’s importance in addressing significant public health concerns. Utilities Director Poonam Kalkat expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, calling it "a once-in-a-generation project that will define the city's water supply system for decades to come."

As a leading expert in PFAS research and treatment, Jacobs has a proven track record in providing long-term solutions across various sectors, including environmental management and advanced manufacturing. Notable clients include government entities like the U.S. Department of Defense and municipalities such as the City of Woodbury in Minnesota and the City of North Bay in Ontario.

Jacobs' commitment to innovative solutions extends beyond this project. With an annual revenue of approximately $12 billion and a workforce of around 45,000, the company emphasizes a holistic approach to tackling complex challenges. Their services span areas such as advanced manufacturing, energy, transportation, and, critically, water infrastructure management.

Through this effort in Boynton Beach, Jacobs is not just addressing immediate concerns related to water contaminants; they are also helping to pioneer the future of water treatment in the U.S. Their work represents a crucial step toward building a more sustainable and secure water supply for future generations. For more information on Jacobs and their projects, visit their website or connect with them on social media.