UPDATE: Tampa City Council is set to vote later today on a critical flood relief project that could reshape South Howard and neighboring areas. The decision comes as city leaders aim to address long-standing stormwater infrastructure issues that have plagued the region for years.
The proposed project includes the installation of a massive box culvert, specifically designed to alleviate flooding in and around South Howard, Swann Avenue, and adjacent neighborhoods. “We know that there’s insufficient, inadequate infrastructure for stormwater in many areas across the city. South Howard itself has been studied and under consideration for over ten years,” stated Brandon Campbell, Tampa’s interim mobility director.
Today’s vote will focus on securing funding for the design-build phase of the project, estimated to cost approximately $4 million. Campbell highlighted that initial work would involve repaving and replacing waterlines on the eastern side of South Howard, essential steps that must be taken regardless of the full project approval.
However, the initiative faces significant pushback from local business owners and residents. “The impact is like death by a thousand cuts. If you want to turn South Howard into a graveyard, keep it up. Because the businesses will not survive,” argued Steve Michelini, a representative of the SoHo business alliance. Concerns are mounting that prolonged construction could devastate local commerce.
Conversely, some residents advocate for less disruptive, more immediate solutions. “The drains need to be cleaned every year. It just should be on a schedule. If we kept up on that, it would cost us far less than the $100 million plus they are proposing,” voiced South Tampa resident Anneliese Meier.
If approved, the project is slated to begin in 2026, with portions of the SoHo area likely to be shut down for extended periods during construction. As the council prepares to cast their votes, the stakes are high for the community, local businesses, and the future of South Howard.
For more details on the project, visit shstormwater.com.
