Hillsborough County is hosting a panel discussion on post-disaster recovery on Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. at Miller Park and Life Center in Tampa.

The meeting is part of the county’s effort to increase storm resiliency following hurricanes Helene and Milton, which struck the area late last year. The recovery plan focuses on expediting repairs, supporting homeowners and businesses, strengthening infrastructure, and protecting historic, cultural, and environmental resources.

According to C.K. Moore, Planning Section Chief for Hillsborough County Emergency Management, several drainage projects have been completed, with more underway to address flooding issues. The county is also developing “living shorelines” as a cost-effective alternative to seawalls for mitigating storm surge, and installing emergency beacon systems at major intersections to keep traffic signals operational during power outages.

Hillsborough County received over $700 million in federal Community Development Block Grants for disaster recovery. Officials are working with Planning Commissions to enhance countywide storm resiliency and develop localized community plans.

Residents can submit feedback on the Post-Disaster Recovery Plan through the county’s website.

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