Future-Ready: Jacobs Delivers Critical Design for Miami-Dade Wastewater Facility

In today’s rapidly changing world, cities and utilities are rethinking how they prepare for and respond to natural, societal and economic risks. From climate change to urbanization, the challenges are vast—and the need for resilient infrastructure has never been greater.

Few places understand this more than the Greater Miami region in Florida. Often referred to as “ground zero” for climate change, Miami-Dade County faces a unique set of challenges due to rising sea levels and the increasing threat of extreme weather events.

Resilience is a top priority for the region and its infrastructure owners. That’s why when the Miami-Dade County Water and Sewer Department needed a new operations center at its South District Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), it selected Jacobs to deliver the design.

The project is part of the County’s broader effort to modernize its wastewater infrastructure and improve working conditions for its staff. The new operations center will serve as the heart of the South District WWTP, which treats wastewater for nearly 2.4 million residents and countless visitors each year.

Jacobs was previously selected to develop a Basis of Design Planning Report for the existing South District WWTP, completed in 2023. Now, we’re bringing that plan to life with a state-of-the-art facility designed to withstand a Category 5 hurricane and serve as a secure shelter for operators during emergencies.

The facility—expected to span more than 46,000 square feet—will include a new lab, administration area, primary control center, visitor lobby and storm shelter. Much of the space will be elevated to mitigate risks associated with projected sea level rise and protect personnel and equipment from flooding.

The design also includes improved aesthetics and staff amenities across the site, such as landscaping, upgraded lighting and an educational center with interpretive displays to engage the public and support community outreach.

“It’s time to think differently about the future—about how we prepare for and respond to risks, both natural and societal,” says Jacobs Executive Director of Sales – Southeast Alberto Lazaro. “On hundreds of projects globally, we’re creating resilient infrastructure—from coastal and river systems, water and wastewater treatment to digital and transportation networks.

Working with the Miami-Dade County Water and Sewer Department, we’ll deliver a secure operations center that protects vital infrastructure and prioritizes employee safety. Together, we’re securing a future where Miami isn’t just prepared for tomorrow’s challenges—but can thrive in the face of them.”

The new facility builds on a 50-year relationship between Jacobs and Miami-Dade County, as well as extensive experience supporting the Water and Sewer Department. Recent projects include upgrades across WWTPs, serving as owner’s representative for the $2.7 billion Ocean Outfall Legislation Program, and providing engineering services for the South District WWTP.