UPDATE: The Tampa City Council is set to vote this morning on $4.1 million in funding for the crucial South Howard Flood Relief Project, marking the start of the “early works” construction phase. If approved, this initiative aims to address long-standing flooding issues in the South Howard area, impacting both residents and local businesses.
Officials have highlighted the urgent need for improved stormwater infrastructure, with Brandon Campbell, the interim Mobility Director for the City of Tampa, stating, “We know that there’s insufficient, inadequate infrastructure for stormwater in many areas across the city.” The project, which has been in discussion for over a decade, will involve the removal and replacement of 2.5 miles of century-old water mains and culverts from West Swann Avenue to Bayshore Boulevard via South Howard Avenue.
The proposed improvements include upgraded water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure, alongside the undergrounding of overhead powerlines. The aim is to mitigate rainy-day flooding and protect the community from potential storm surge threats from the nearby bay. “These are projects that will have to be done,” Campbell added.
However, community members are expressing serious concerns about the project’s impact. Local resident Pam Cannella voiced her worries, saying, “Oh, my gosh, it’s going to be a mess. The impacts are more than this neighborhood or any neighborhood could handle.” Critics like Anneliese Meier from the Parkland Estates Historical Preservation Society have condemned the project’s transparency, claiming, “It was presented as something that it’s not. It’s going to cost every resident a lot of money.”
Local businesses along South Howard Avenue are particularly anxious about the anticipated disruptions. They fear that partial closures during construction could lead to a 40% drop in foot traffic and an estimated loss of $10 million for the area’s 35 bars and restaurants. 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.”
If the City Council approves the funding, construction could commence shortly, although officials have not provided a specific timeline. The completion of this extensive project could take “years,” adding to the urgency of today’s vote.
As the situation develops, the community and local businesses will be closely monitoring the outcome of the council’s decision, which could significantly affect the future of South Howard Avenue. Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.
