Tampa, Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Hernando counties are developing a unified post-disaster recovery strategy, supported by a $1.3 million Department of Homeland Security grant secured following Hurricane Ian in 2022.

The funding supports the Regional Catastrophic Preparedness Program, which aims to help the region rebuild more quickly and stronger after future disasters. Emergency managers emphasized the need for coordinated recovery strategies following recent storms, like Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton.

Tampa’s Emergency Management Director, John Antapasis, highlighted the importance of community input, stating that public workshops have shaped the plan by allowing residents to prioritize strategies ranging from infrastructure upgrades to housing and economic redevelopment.

The four jurisdictions will hold additional public meetings to review the regional master plan, with finalization targeted for spring 2026. The next regional meeting is scheduled for October 8 at Tampa’s Miller Park & Life Center from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Pasco County is developing its own separate plan with independent funding.

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