20,000-Gallon Sewage Spill in Bradenton Alarms Residents, Prompts County Action
A major sewage spill in Manatee County is raising concerns among Bradenton residents. On Monday, 20,000 gallons of raw wastewater poured into a neighborhood and nearby wetlands.
The incident occurred at the end of Old Farm Road near Honore Avenue, close to the Braden River. According to officials, the spill lasted approximately five hours and was caused by a pavement contractor, AKCA LLC, who struck a main sewer line while installing a sign.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection confirmed that the rupture released enough sewage to fill two backyard pools. Some of the wastewater may have reached Cedar Creek, a waterway that flows into Ward Lake, prompting concerns about potential ecological damage.
In response, water officials acted quickly by shutting off nearby feeder lines to isolate the system while repairs were made. Manatee County’s wastewater compliance staff collected samples from the affected area and reported no detectable environmental harm.
Despite reassurances, residents expressed unease about the spill's impact on local wildlife and the unpleasant conditions in the area. The county has stated that the contractor responsible will be billed for all cleanup-related expenses, including labor, equipment, and materials.
An investigation by the county’s utilities department confirmed AKCA LLC as the party at fault, and the company is expected to cover the incident's costs. Community members, however, remain concerned about how the situation unfolded and are calling for stronger oversight to prevent future accidents.