News Summary
As hurricane season approaches, Tampa and Hillsborough County are intensifying efforts to resolve stormwater management issues to prevent flooding. Over 2,300 tons of debris have been cleared from drainage systems since last year, but concerns remain regarding neighborhoods lacking maintenance for decades. County officials emphasize the need for immediate repairs and remind residents to keep storm drains clear of debris. A new bill is also being advocated to ensure annual inspections of storm infrastructure. Local crews are using advanced tools to address drainage problems in preparation for the upcoming storm season.
Tampa and Hillsborough County Accelerate Stormwater Cleanup Ahead of Hurricane Season
In Tampa, crews from the city and Hillsborough County are working urgently to resolve stormwater management issues as hurricane season approaches. Their efforts are focused on improving drainage systems to prevent flooding and related hazards during severe weather events.
During a recent City Council meeting, the Mobility Department reported that over 2,300 tons of debris have been cleared from stormwater pipes, ditches, and ponds since last year. This initiative is part of ongoing repairs and replacements of stormwater drainage infrastructure throughout the area. Despite these efforts, City Council Member Bill Carlson expressed frustration over the pace of progress, highlighting that some neighborhoods have not seen any maintenance or upgrades in decades.
With the onset of hurricane season, residents are becoming increasingly anxious about flooding. Council Member Guido Maniscalco emphasized the need for timely intervention, as citizens worry about potential storm impacts exacerbated by inadequate drainage systems. Hillsborough County crews are prioritizing repairs to hundreds of stormwater systems, especially in regions most severely impacted by prior storms.
Thomas Root, Hillsborough County Public Works Section Manager, has warned that severe drainage issues can lead to complete drainage failure, significantly worsening flooding conditions. Furthermore, some residents like Sebastien Legros are experiencing the aftermath of storm surge, currently residing in temporary housing and drawing attention to persistent drainage concerns in their neighborhoods. Residents have reported significant water pooling on streets following routine thunderstorms, pointing to inadequate maintenance of the stormwater management system.
Hillsborough County is focusing heavily on addressing high-priority stormwater maintenance tasks ahead of another potential hurricane strike. This involves the inspection and cleaning of over 40,000 storm drains across the county. Specialized crews are utilizing advanced tools, such as cameras to detect blockages, while high-pressure hoses and vacuums are employed to ensure drains are cleared effectively. County workers often work five to seven days a week to ensure that the stormwater systems are prepared for heavy rainfall.
In addition, officials are reminding residents of their role in maintaining drainage efficacy by keeping storm drains clear of debris to prevent costly flooding and other issues. After hurricanes, the county typically receives between 5,000 and 10,000 calls regarding clogged drains, which corresponds to the volume of issues that would normally emerge over the course of a typical month during the dry season.
To address long-term problems with stormwater management, Senator Danny Burgess is advocating for a new bill (Senate Bill 810) that would mandate annual inspections of storm infrastructure leading up to hurricane season. The bill aims to ensure accountability among cities and counties in maintaining effective stormwater systems, which will help identify and address drainage issues before they escalate into significant problems during storms.
In the rush to prepare for hurricane season, Hillsborough County crews are also employing small robots to locate and assess issues within the stormwater management system, addressing a significant backlog of clog reports. Those experiencing drainage problems are encouraged to report their concerns either by calling (813) 272-5900 or submitting an online report.
As Tampa and Hillsborough County approach what could be a challenging hurricane season, local officials remain focused on improving the stormwater management system to protect residents and reduce the impact of severe weather.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 13 News: Stormwater Management Video
- Wikipedia: Stormwater Management
- WTSP: Hillsborough County Storm Drains
- Google Search: Stormwater Management
- ABC Action News: Stormwater Drain Inspections
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
