Overview
- Members postponed a decision on a $4.1 million design-build package tied to the project’s early works, which includes replacing aging water and sewer lines and site preparation work reportedly with Kimmins Contracting.
- Council leaders questioned whether the funding falls within the original roughly $65 million plan or reflects an expanded scope, citing uncertainty over overall affordability.
- Chair Alan Clendenin warned fully funding South Howard could exhaust resources for other flood efforts, while the city’s CFO said Tampa is not at risk of running out of money.
- The flood relief plan envisions high-capacity box culverts and drainage pipes up to five times larger than existing lines, with the city previously outlining sectioned construction lasting six to nine weeks per segment and a potential multi-year schedule through 2029.
- Public input remains divided, with business advocates predicting closures and significant job losses, some residents urging cheaper maintenance-focused fixes, and flood-affected homeowners pressing for action; council will revisit the item in December after more financial and engineering detail.