Christobel sewer project moves forward after decades of delays, bringing hope to North Jacksonville community

Decades of perseverance pay off as construction begins on the Christobel sewer project in Jacksonville, promising relief to residents burdened by aging septic tanks.

After decades of waiting, construction is now underway on the Christobel sewer project, marking a long-awaited milestone for neighbors and businesses that have relied on septic tanks for generations.

Crews are installing underground infrastructure that will eventually connect hundreds of properties to Jacksonville’s public sewer system, replacing aging septic systems that community members say have been a burden for years.

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Jacksonville City Councilmember Ju’Coby Pittman said getting the project off the ground required years of persistence and collaboration at the local, state and federal levels.

“It’s been delayed many, many times,” Pittman said. “City, state and federal government really realized how important this project was.”

She said securing approximately $6.8 million in funding helped move the project from planning to construction.

“What I love most about this project is that the residents didn’t give up,” Pittman said. “There were many broken promises over the years, and now we’re at a point where you see them working.”

Pittman said many neighbors doubted they would ever see the project happen in their lifetimes.

“I feel excited about what has taken place in this community,” she said. “There are a lot of disparities here, and we want to make sure the quality of life and the water that we have in this area are sustainable long term.”

For Pastor Anthony Webster of Peace Missionary Baptist Church, the project represents relief after nearly four decades of maintaining a septic system at the church.

“We had the system put in 38 years ago,” Webster said. “In those 38 years, we’ve probably spent about $8,000 pumping it out and replacing pumps.”

Webster said the community has heard promises before. He remembers discussions dating back to Jacksonville’s consolidation when they were told infrastructure improvements would follow.

“After consolidation they were supposed to spend a whole lot more money in this area,” Webster said. “From what I witnessed, they were moving money other places.”

Asked what that felt like, Webster said, “It makes you feel like an orphan, but you have to survive. We just did what we needed to do.”

Now, as heavy equipment works behind his church, Webster said seeing construction firsthand gives him hope.

“Health-wise, it makes it a better community,” he said. “There are a lot of illnesses that people don’t know why they’re there, and I believe the environment has to contribute something to it.”

He added that while the work isn’t finished, the community is optimistic.

“I’m happy about it,” Webster said. “We’re still praying they’re able to complete the project, and we’re encouraged more now.”

Pittman said construction will take time as crews install the necessary sewer infrastructure throughout the neighborhood, but she believes the project will deliver improvements residents have fought for over generations.

“I just want to say congratulations and thank you for continuing to fight the fight,” Pittman said. “What matters to you matters to me.”

Community members who have not signed up yet can call JEA’s Project Outreach Team at 904-665-7500. 

For more updates on the project click this link.