TAMPA, Fla. — A major stormwater project aimed at reducing flooding in South Tampa is moving forward, but some residents and business owners are raising concerns about the disruption construction could bring.
The South Howard Flood Relief Project carries an estimated $100-million price tag and is designed to address flooding that residents and businesses say has worsened over the years.
The developer working on the project is scheduled to meet with the community Tuesday at 6 p.m. to discuss the plans and answer questions from residents.
According to the city’s plans, the project would put a major stormwater drainage system underground.
City renderings describe the system as an “underground river”, a 10-foot-by-10-foot drainage line designed to move stormwater away from South Howard, West Swann and surrounding neighborhoods.
Photos from the Parkland Estates and Palma Ceia Pines neighborhoods show the flooding that can occur during heavy rain.
The city acknowledges construction will be disruptive, but officials say the long-term benefits of the project outweigh the short-term challenges.
Some of the pushback is coming from people concerned that construction could create a significant mess and affect businesses along the project route.
The Tampa City Council is expected to take a final vote on the project at the end of August.
If approved, construction would begin in January 2027 and take place in smaller sections. Work in each area is expected to last approximately six to nine weeks.
The project is expected to be completed by summer 2030.
Although much of the project will be underground, the city also plans improvements at street level.
Those improvements are expected to include wider sidewalks, upgraded crossings, lighting, landscaping, and changes intended to improve traffic flow.
The city also said it plans to help businesses maintain foot traffic during construction through a marketing campaign.
The community meeting will give residents and business owners an opportunity to learn more about the construction timeline, ask questions, and raise concerns before the city council’s final vote