Pinellas County commissioners have approved a $29 million federal grant to repair and stabilize five waterways damaged by Hurricane Milton, addressing erosion and drainage issues that officials say could increase future flooding risks if left unresolved.
The funding comes through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Emergency Watershed Protection Program and will fully cover construction and project oversight costs. The repairs will focus on Joe’s Creek, Curlew Creek, Jerry Branch, Bee Branch, and Channel R.
County officials said Hurricane Milton’s heavy rainfall and floodwaters caused significant erosion along creek banks, destabilizing waterways and leaving behind sediment and debris. The damage has reduced channel capacity in some areas, increasing concerns about upstream flooding that could affect nearby homes, businesses, and public infrastructure.
According to Pinellas County Public Works Director Kelli Hammer-Levy, county staff and federal officials conducted extensive inspections of the affected waterways to identify damaged areas and determine the scope of repairs needed. The planned work includes streambank stabilization, erosion control, and restoration of channel capacity.
While the county has easement rights that allow access to perform the work, repairs will be limited to areas under public control and will not extend onto private property.
A construction timeline has not yet been finalized. County officials must first obtain the required environmental and regulatory permits before work can begin. The grant agreement remains in effect through June 1, 2028, providing time to complete the projects.
The funding represents one of the largest federal infrastructure recovery awards received by Pinellas County since Hurricane Milton and is intended to reduce future flood risks while protecting vulnerable waterways and surrounding communities.
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