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NewsWUSF — Tampa Bay NPR (Local & State)August 3, 2026Hillsborough

SoHo Business Alliance sues Tampa over $100 million South Howard flood relief project

The SoHo Business Alliance filed a lawsuit against the City of Tampa on June 5, alleging the city violated Florida's Sunshine Law by withholding records regarding the design and cost-benefit analysis of the $100 million South Howard Flood Relief Project. The project, which aims to mitigate flooding in the Parkland Estates and Palma Ceia Pines neighborhoods, faces opposition from business owners concerned about construction disruption and skepticism from engineers regarding the gravity-drain design.

stormwater managementinfrastructurelitigationlocal governmentSouth Tampa
Read the full story at WUSF — Tampa Bay NPR (Local & State)

Why It Matters

The project involves a $100 million public works investment that will require three years of construction on South Howard Avenue, directly impacting local business operations and property stability for residents in flood-prone areas.

Key Facts

Each fact below is taken from the article. Click one to see the exact passage.

Who's Mentioned

personMartin Millburg“Wrote an independent report questioning the project's effectiveness.”organizationSoHo Business Alliance“Sued the city for access to project records.”personSteve Michelini“Representing the SoHo Business Alliance.”personEdward de la Parte“Representing the SoHo Business Alliance in the lawsuit.”personDavid Adams“Supports the project due to recurring flooding.”organizationKimmins Contracting“Contracted by the city for the project design.”personNatalie Rougie“Concerned about construction impact on her wellness practice.”organizationFlorida Department of Environmental Protection“Potential funding source for the project.”personAdam Smith“Declined to comment on pending litigation.”organizationTampa-Hillsborough Expressway Authority“Anticipated to provide $11 million in funding.”personJane Castor“Advocated for the project in a Tampa Bay Times editorial.”personWilliam Kolega“Supports the project citing past flood losses.”personJoshua Cascio“Representing the city's Infrastructure and Mobility Administration.”