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NewsFox 13 News (WTVT) — Local NewsSeptember 1, 2026Hillsborough

Tampa City Council to vote on $93 million South Howard flood relief project

The Tampa City Council is scheduled to vote this Thursday on a $93 million infrastructure project to replace a century-old storm drainage system with a new 10-by-10-foot line. The project aims to reduce chronic flooding in the South Howard area but faces opposition from local business owners concerned about the impact of three years of construction.

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Read the full story at Fox 13 News (WTVT) — Local News

Why It Matters

The project will determine the future of flood mitigation for over 220 homes and businesses in South Tampa, while potentially causing years of road closures and economic disruption for the South Howard commercial corridor.

Key Facts

  • The project cost is estimated at $93 million.
  • The project involves installing a 10-by-10-foot drainage line to replace a century-old system.
  • Construction is expected to last approximately three years.
  • The project aims to protect over 220 homes and businesses in the South Howard area.
  • City modeling shows the project would eliminate structural flooding in Parkland Estates during a severe summer storm.
  • The project is not designed to eliminate all structural flooding during a major hurricane.
  • The SoHo Business Alliance argues construction could bankrupt businesses along the corridor.
  • The city considered 24 different alternatives before selecting this proposal.
  • The project will require road closures on South Howard Avenue for several weeks at a time.
  • More than 333 homes were reported flooded during Hurricane Milton.
  • The neighborhood has reportedly flooded three times in the current month.

Who's Mentioned

locationTampa“The city government proposing the project.”otherSouth Howard Flood Relief Project“The infrastructure project subject to the vote.”organizationSoHo Business Alliance“Group opposing the project due to construction impact.”personMegan Luca“Parkland Estates resident supporting the project.”personBill Carlson“City Councilman opposing the project.”personDavid Adams“Parkland Estates resident supporting the project.”personSuzanne Fernandez“Resident supporting the project.”personBrandon Campbell“Tampa Mobility Director.”