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Hillsborough County considering plan to fix aging pipes and reduce flooding

The $171M project fixes 147 miles of failing pipes
Posted at 6:00 AM, Jun 03, 2019
and last updated 2019-06-03 06:11:46-04

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — Hillsborough County leaders are considering a plan they say would help fix aging pipes, reduce flooding risk and improve safety in dozens of neighborhoods across the Tampa Bay area.

The $171M project would include rehabilitation and replacement of stormwater pump stations, pipes and other infrastructure that are in poor and failing condition.

36 existing stormwater pump stations will be rehabilitated or replaced, according to the proposed plan. Over 147 miles of failing/aged pipes would also be replaced to reduce flood risk and improve safety, according to Hillsborough County.

Here's a look at where pipe replacements are needed in a map from Hillsborough County:

Check if your neighborhood is on the list.

However, these improvements could cost families across Hillsborough County more.

RECOMMENDED: Flooding relief projects coming to several Tampa neighborhoods in 2019

Hillsborough County leaders are looking to ease up pressure on the county's general fund. As a result of having families pay for the stormwater improvements through increased assessments, county leaders say they will be able to improve area parks, hire more code enforcement officers and support four or five fire stations.

Hillsborough County Commissioners are getting a report on these number for the first time on Wednesday, June 5. They plan to hold a public hearing on June 19, 2019.

If the Sustainable Stormwater Plan is approved, the new rates could be effective by Oct. 1, 2019.