Tampa City Council met Wednesday to discuss a comprehensive flood mitigation project for South Tampa’s South Howard Avenue district, with estimated costs reaching $98 million.

The South Howard Flood Relief Project addresses chronic flooding in the area through a complete overhaul of aging stormwater drainage infrastructure. The plan includes underground pipe replacement, widened sidewalks, enhanced landscaping, additional tree cover, increased on-street parking, and relocating power lines underground.

The project aims to protect South Howard Avenue, Swann Avenue, and surrounding neighborhoods. City planners estimate it will reduce flooding by 95% during typical rain events and 70% during major storms comparable to Hurricane Milton. The area’s 100-year-old infrastructure failed during the 2024 hurricane season, flooding hundreds of homes.

Construction is scheduled to begin in January 2027 with completion targeted for 2030. The current $98 million price tag represents a significant increase from the $65 million estimate made four years ago.

City Council member Guido Maniscalco expressed uncertainty about funding sources, citing concerns about property tax revenue losses and the possibility of raising stormwater fees.

Residents and business owners have debated the project for years. While many seek relief from persistent flooding, concerns remain about years-long construction disruption and whether the investment will deliver promised results.

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