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St. Petersburg, FL - St. Petersburg city leaders have approved funding to study the installation of a flood gate system in the Shore Acres neighborhood to address recurring flooding issues.
The study, estimated to cost nearly $150,000, aims to evaluate the feasibility and potential benefits of tidal gates designed to control water flow during heavy rainfall and high tides.
The proposed plan would install two flood gates in Shore Acres, which would enhance the city’s capacity to manage stormwater and reduce the risk of residential flooding.
City officials note that the system could potentially benefit a quarter of St. Petersburg, extending beyond Shore Acres to surrounding neighborhoods.
The gates would function by temporarily holding back water during major rain events, potentially deterring sewage or excess water from impacting homes.
For every six inches of water affecting Shore Acres, the system is expected to provide approximately 52 million gallons of storage capacity.
Brejesh Prayman, the city’s Director of Engineering and Capital Improvements, emphasized that engineers will evaluate the project to ensure it does not negatively affect other parts of the city.
The study will include modeling and assessments to prevent pushing flooding problems from one area to another.
Residents, including Amy Cardy, who experienced home flooding during the 2024 hurricanes, have expressed support for the initiative.
Cardy shared footage of floodwaters entering her cul-de-sac and highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by homeowners in the neighborhood.
City Councilmember Mike Harting stated that the flood gate system could provide relief to a large number of residents while informing future infrastructure decisions.
The study marks the first step in determining whether a flood gate system can reduce flooding risks and improve stormwater management across St. Petersburg.