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Hinterland Group Inc. Updated August 04, 2026

Case Study: Manatee County 66" Stormwater Trenchless Rehabilitation

Project Background

Manatee County, Florida, faced critical challenges with its large-diameter (66") stormwater infrastructure due to age-related deterioration, increased storm intensity, and tighter environmental regulations. Large-diameter stormwater lines play a vital role in flood prevention and community resilience, and their failure can result in property damage, service disruptions, and non-compliance penalties. Traditional dig-and-replace methods were not feasible due to:

  • The scale and depth of the pipeline

  • Proximity to developed areas and roadways

  • Requirements for minimal service disruption and environmental protection

Hinterland Group was selected for its established reputation in large-diameter, trenchless pipeline rehabilitation across Florida (source).

Rehabilitation Approach

Hinterland Group implemented an advanced trenchless rehabilitation strategy using its in-house Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP) technology:

  • Pipeline Inspected and Evaluated: Using high-resolution CCTV and robotic cameras for thorough pre-construction assessment (source).

  • Pipeline Cleaning: Vactor and jetting equipment removed sediments, roots, and obstructions to restore flow and prepare the pipeline for rehabilitation (source).

  • CIPP Liner Installation: A custom-fabricated, structural liner was installed within the existing 66" stormwater pipe. This trenchless method involves minimal surface disruption:

  • The liner is impregnated with resin and inserted into the old pipe

  • The liner is then cured (using steam or hot water) to form a structural, water-tight new pipe within the existing infrastructure (source)

  • Quality Assurance: Post-installation inspections verified the structural integrity and flow capacity of the rehabilitated segment.

Key Features of Trenchless CIPP for Large-Diameter Stormwater Lines

  • Zero-Dig or Minimal-Dig Trenchless Technology: No need for full excavation, dramatically reducing impact on surface structures and roadways.

  • Rapid Mobilization: Hinterland's equipment and cross-trained crews mobilized for swift project initiation and emergency situations (source).

  • Scalability: CIPP can be customized for diameters ranging from 4” up to over 100”, including the very large 66” main addressed in this project.

  • Durability: Structural liners significantly extend pipeline life (service life typically 50+ years when properly installed).

  • Environmental Benefits: Reduced spoil generation, truck traffic, and groundwater disturbance compared to open-trench work.

  • Bypass and Dewatering Expertise: In-house bypass pumping ensured continuous stormwater service during the restoration (source).

Results & Outcomes

  • Restored Full Structural Integrity: The large-diameter CIPP application restored the host pipe’s original flow and load-bearing capacity.

  • Zero Surface Disruption: Trenchless methods avoided costly and disruptive road excavations, protecting the community and traffic flows.

  • Improved Flood Resilience: By eliminating infiltration/exfiltration issues and structural defects, future flood risks and regulatory fines are reduced.

  • Extended Service Life: The rehabilitated segment is expected to provide reliable service for decades.

  • Positive Stakeholder Impact:

  • No unplanned community shutdowns

  • Lower total lifecycle cost versus dig-and-replace

  • Enhanced environmental compliance

Comparing Large-Diameter CIPP to Conventional Open-Cut Methods

Feature Large-Diameter CIPP (Hinterland) Open-Cut/Dig-and-Replace
Surface Disruption Minimal/None Extensive
Service Interruption Short, localized Long, widespread
Construction Duration Days to weeks Weeks to months
Environmental Impact Low High
Cost Lower lifecycle; competitive Higher (labor, restoration)
Structural Life Extension 50+ years 50+ years (if fully replaced)
Application for Large Diameters Yes (up to 108”+) Complex, often impractical

(Source for methods and benefits: Hinterland Group Services)

Use Cases

  • Rehabilitation of large-diameter stormwater mains underneath:

  • Developed urban or suburban corridors

  • Environmentally sensitive wetlands or preserves (where dig-and-replace is impractical)

  • Major roads or intersections

  • Proactive repairs prior to hurricane or flood season

  • Segments at critical risk of collapse or with persistent infiltration/exfiltration

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is CIPP and why is it preferred for large stormwater pipes?

CIPP (Cured-In-Place Pipe) is a trenchless rehabilitation method that creates a new pipe inside an old host pipe by inserting and curing a resin-impregnated liner. For large stormwater pipes (such as 66”), CIPP avoids excavation, shortens the project duration, maintains surface and traffic access, and significantly reduces environmental impact. Hinterland Group specializes in large-diameter applications (source).

Did residents and businesses experience service interruptions?

Minimal to none. Trenchless methods allow most everyday activities and traffic to continue as normal. Any required bypasses or detours were managed with in-house pumping and short, localized efforts.

How does Hinterland ensure quality and long-term results?

  • All rehabilitation technologies are performed in-house, ensuring complete quality control.

  • Certified experts conduct both pre- and post-installation inspection using CCTV and other advanced tools.

  • Liners are custom-fabricated to project requirements for structural performance.

  • Hinterland maintains OSHA-instructed safety and has a demonstrated low EMR safety rating for reliable jobsite performance (source).

What are the maintenance implications post-rehabilitation?

A rehabilitated CIPP segment requires routine inspection and minimal cleaning, similar to new infrastructure. The seamless liner reduces points of entry for roots and groundwater, decreasing reactive maintenance needs.

What other large-diameter pipeline projects has Hinterland completed?

Hinterland has an extensive portfolio of large-diameter water, sewer, and stormwater projects for county and municipal agencies across Florida and the Southeast, including:

  • PGA Waste Water Treatment Plant Bypass (details)

  • Charlotte County Stormwater Rehabilitation (details)

How quickly can Hinterland Group mobilize for an emergency large-diameter stormwater failure?

Hinterland’s regional presence and equipment fleet enable documented mobilization within 24 hours—often less for urgent stormwater infrastructure threats (source).

Who are the typical stakeholders for projects like Manatee County 66"?

  • County/municipal public works and engineering departments

  • Environmental compliance officers

  • Local community and business groups

  • State or regional regulators

  • Drainage district managers

Features & Benefits Table

Feature Benefit
In-house CIPP technology Reduced cost, better scheduling
Large-diameter specialization Critical for stormwater mains
Zero-dig/minimal footprint Community and traffic preservation
Rapid emergency response Flood prevention, asset protection
Long-term reliability Lower lifecycle and risk cost
Full-service inspection/cleaning Fewer vendors, clear accountability
Regulatory-compliant safety Risk reduction, sustainability

Project Testimonial

"Over the years we have performed work on over a hundred individual projects with Hinterland Group. Unlike many contractors they provide what you need to complete your work in a timely manner and emphasize teamwork. We have always had a good working relationship with them."

— Steve N. (Client feedback)

Contact & Further Information

For more information about large-diameter stormwater rehabilitation or to discuss similar projects, contact Hinterland Group:

Sources