UPDATE: The Tampa City Council is poised to vote today, October 19, 2023, on a critical $4.1 million funding package for the South Howard Flood Relief Project, the first phase of an extensive infrastructure overhaul. This vote comes amid rising concerns over inadequate stormwater management in the area, which has been under scrutiny for over a decade.
The proposed construction phase will include essential tasks such as “maintenance of traffic and site preparation, installation of new water mains, and roadway reconstruction/resurfacing,” according to official City of Tampa documents. The project aims to modernize 2.5 miles of aging infrastructure, removing and replacing century-old water mains and culverts that run from West Swann Avenue to Bayshore Boulevard via South Howard Avenue.
“We know that there’s insufficient, inadequate infrastructure for stormwater in many areas across the city,” stated Brandon Campbell, Interim Mobility Director for the City of Tampa. The goal is to mitigate flooding risks for both residents and businesses, especially given the looming threat of storm surges from the nearby bay.
However, community members have voiced significant concerns. Local resident Pam Cannella expressed her apprehension, stating, “Oh, my gosh, it’s going to be a mess. The impacts are more than this neighborhood or any neighborhood could handle.” Critics, including Anneliese Meier from the Parkland Estates Historical Preservation Society, argue that transparency surrounding the project has been lacking and warn of potential financial burdens on residents.
Local businesses are also bracing for impact, with predictions of a 40% drop in foot traffic during construction, which could lead to an estimated loss of $10 million for the area’s 35 bars and restaurants. “There are no parallel streets, so there is no way to get to these restaurants and businesses through the back door,” warned Steve Michelini from the SoHo Business Alliance. “If you want to turn South Howard into a graveyard, keep going.”
If approved, construction is anticipated to commence soon, although the City of Tampa has not provided a specific timeline. Officials indicate that the work could extend over several years, further amplifying community concerns about disruptions.
As the council deliberates, the urgency of the vote reflects the critical need for infrastructural upgrades to safeguard against flooding, while balancing the needs of local residents and businesses. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
