Brevard County officials have formally applied for $66 million in state and federal funding to upgrade outdated sewer systems in several communities. The request, submitted to the Florida Department of Transportation and the U.S. Department of Transportation, targets areas where pipes built in the 1960s and 1970s are nearing the end of their lifespan. County Administrator Mike Hargrove said the money would address frequent backups and overflows that have caused property damage and environmental concerns in recent years. "These systems are critical for public health and safety," Hargrove said during a meeting last week. "Without upgrades, we risk more disruptions during heavy rains." The proposed project includes replacing 18 miles of main sewer lines in Cocoa, Palm Bay, and Titusville, where population growth has strained existing capacity. Engineers estimate the work would take three years to complete if funding is secured. State representatives from Brevard, including Rep. Anna Eskamani, have endorsed the request, calling it a "necessary investment" in infrastructure. "This isn’t just about fixing pipes," Eskamani said in a statement. "It’s about ensuring hospitals, schools, and businesses have reliable service as the county grows." The county has also applied for a $15 million grant from the Florida Infrastructure Bank, which would cover 25% of the project’s costs. If approved, the state would contribute the remaining 75% through the Florida Transportation Fund. Public hearings on the proposal are scheduled for next month in each of the affected cities. Residents have raised concerns about potential construction disruptions and increased taxes, though officials say the funding would avoid rate hikes for wastewater users. The county’s environmental services department has already begun preliminary surveys of the targeted areas, with final designs expected by early 2025. A similar request for $40 million in 2022 was denied due to competing priorities, but officials say improved federal funding formulas this year make the current bid more viable.