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NewsFOX 13 Tampa BaySeptember 1, 2026Hillsborough

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

The Tampa City Council is set 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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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 SoHo commercial corridor.

Key Facts

  • The project cost is estimated at $93 million.
  • The proposed drainage line measures 10-by-10 feet.
  • Construction is expected to last approximately three years.
  • The project aims to protect over 220 homes and businesses.
  • City modeling shows the project would eliminate structural flooding in Parkland Estates during a storm with 5 inches of rain over 8 hours.
  • The project does not guarantee protection against all flooding during major hurricanes.
  • The SoHo Business Alliance argues construction could cause local businesses to go bankrupt.
  • Over 333 homes were reported flooded during Hurricane Milton.
  • The neighborhood has reportedly flooded three times in the current month.
  • The city considered 24 different alternatives before selecting this proposal.

Who's Mentioned

locationTampa“The city government and location of the project.”otherSouth Howard Flood Relief Project“The infrastructure project under consideration.”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 describing flooding as catastrophic.”personBrandon Campbell“Tampa Mobility Director.”