Hillsborough County is still working to rebuild stormwater systems damaged during last year’s back-to-back hurricanes, with major canal repairs underway in Town ‘n’ Country.

The project, which began shortly after Hurricane Milton, covers more than 20 miles of canals. County officials say some areas require additional fill and stabilization, while others need erosion control and restoration.

“We’re focusing right now on these major stormwater interstate systems before moving to the neighborhood ditches, because they all eventually lead into the canals,” said Fred Hartless, Maintenance Superintendent for Hillsborough County Public Works.

Crews are also clearing canals to promote healthy vegetation, which helps keep water flowing. Once that phase is complete, the county will shift to neighborhood ditches.

While many residents recognize it’s a long process, they’re calling for permanent fixes.

“I don’t think the drainage issues have been addressed properly,” said resident Mackenzie Ott. “I worry about standing water with mosquitoes, and when cars drive by it creates a wake that pushes water into yards and homes.”

Ott, a lifelong resident, said the community’s cultural diversity makes it special—but it also means many families were affected when last year’s storms caused severe flooding.

“People’s entire livelihoods were gone in a day and left on the side of the road,” she said.

The county expects canal restoration to be finished next year. Officials also warn that illegal dumping remains a significant problem, since debris clogs the canals and slows water flow.

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(Image credit: Hillsborough County)

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