Tampa City Council to Vote on $4.1M SoHo Flood Project TODAY

UPDATE: The Tampa City Council is set to vote today, October 12, 2023, on a crucial $4.1 million funding proposal for the South Howard Flood Relief Project. This initiative marks the “early works” phase aimed at improving flood infrastructure in the South Howard area, a location plagued by inadequate stormwater management.

City officials reveal that this project will address significant traffic maintenance, site preparation, and the installation of new water mains, along with the reconstruction and resurfacing of surrounding roadways. Brandon Campbell, the interim Mobility Director for the City of Tampa, emphasized the pressing need for these upgrades, stating, “We know that there’s insufficient, inadequate infrastructure for stormwater in many areas across the city.”

The South Howard Flood Relief Project, first proposed over ten years ago, involves removing and reinstalling 2.5 miles of outdated water mains and culverts, extending from West Swann Avenue to Bayshore Boulevard. The plan also includes enhanced water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure, as well as the undergrounding of overhead power lines.

This initiative is designed to shield local businesses and residents from flooding and storm surge threats from the nearby bay. “These are projects that will have to be done,” Campbell added, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

Residents, however, have voiced their concerns regarding the project’s transparency and potential impact. Local resident Pam Cannella expressed anxiety about the disruptions, stating, “Oh, my gosh, it’s going to be a mess. The impacts are more than this neighborhood or any neighborhood could handle.” Furthermore, Anneliese Meier, representing the Parkland Estates Historical Preservation Society, criticized the city’s communication, arguing that the project could burden residents financially.

Local businesses are also bracing for the consequences. The project could lead to partial closures of South Howard Avenue, with predictions of a 40% drop in foot traffic and an estimated $10 million loss for the 35 bars and restaurants in the area. Steve Michelini from the SoHo Business Alliance warned, “There are no parallel streets, so there is no way to get to these restaurants and businesses through the back door. If you want to turn South Howard into a graveyard, keep going. The businesses will not survive.”

If approved, construction could commence shortly, although the City of Tampa has not provided a specific timeline for completion, noting that the project could take “years” to finalize. As the vote approaches, the community anxiously awaits the decision that could reshape the future of the South Howard area and its flood management strategies.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the Tampa City Council makes its pivotal decision.