Tampa city officials are evaluating a significant flood relief project aimed at the South Howard Avenue community, which faced severe flooding during Hurricane Milton.
A $65 Million Solution to Persistent Flooding
The proposed $65 million South Howard Flood Relief Project focuses on overhauling the area’s stormwater system to improve drainage. These outdated systems are largely responsible for the community’s chronic flooding issues, worsened during Hurricane Milton.
“We need to understand (that) these are generational projects,” said Vik Bhide, Tampa’s Mobility Director. “These are made to last 70 to 100 years. These are not just for us. These are for our children, our grandchildren.”
Community Divided on the Best Path Forward
While the project promises to address critical issues, its implementation has sparked debate among residents of Parkland Estates and nearby business owners. Dozens of homeowners are still grappling with hundreds of thousands of dollars in flood damage caused by Milton.
Many residents, like Debra Coleman, have faced unexpected devastation, as their community is in Flood Zone X, an area with only a 1 percent chance of flooding according to FEMA.
“We don’t want to wait any longer. We need it to start now,” Coleman urged. “A reduction of even a foot or a foot and a half of water can be the difference between our houses flooding or staying dry.”
Engineers Suggest Potential Road Closures
Engineers working on the project have proposed options, including partial or full road closures in the area. South Howard Avenue could face closures lasting several weeks, raising concerns among local business owners.
Jordan Warshavsky of the Ciccio Restaurant Group, which owns Green Lemon, expressed fears of economic fallout if closures disrupt their operations.
“Any substantial closure will be an existential threat to our businesses,” Warshavsky explained. “We’re seeking a cooperative solution that mitigates storm threats without destroying the businesses that fuel South Tampa’s economy.”
Community Meeting Set for Discussion
Tampa city leaders have scheduled a community meeting to address concerns and discuss potential solutions with residents and business owners. The meeting will take place on Nov. 18 at 6 p.m. at Bayshore Baptist Church. WFLA initially published the story.
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