Stormwater Master Plan underway as flooding concerns rise in Bradenton area

In a recent meeting of the Manatee County Planning Commission, officials gathered to address pressing concerns regarding stormwater management in areas prone to flooding. The discussion, held on January 16, 2025, highlighted the ongoing challenges and future plans for improving the county's stormwater infrastructure.

As the meeting unfolded, a map illustrating past flooding incidents was presented, revealing areas that have historically struggled with water accumulation. The existing stormwater model, adopted in 2013, was noted to be outdated, lacking the latest NOAA data. This raised concerns among commissioners about the adequacy of current measures to manage stormwater effectively.

Angela, a staff member, explained that an ongoing study aims to update the stormwater master plan, which is expected to take 18 to 36 months to complete. In the meantime, proactive steps have been taken, such as manually pumping down water levels during significant rain events to mitigate flooding risks.

The conversation turned to a specific development project, with questions raised about how new structures might impact existing water flow and flooding patterns. Denise Greer, a staff member, expressed concerns about the potential for increased runoff from the development site, which is located in a naturally wetland area. She emphasized the need for clarity on how the proposed changes would affect surrounding communities.

Trenton Strackbein, representing the development team, responded by assuring the commission that their plans include a comprehensive stormwater management system designed to capture and manage runoff on-site. He explained that the project aims to achieve a 50% reduction in post-development discharge, addressing the existing flooding issues downstream.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that while steps are being taken to enhance stormwater management, the complexities of development in flood-prone areas require careful consideration and ongoing dialogue among stakeholders. The commission's commitment to addressing these challenges reflects a broader concern for community safety and environmental sustainability in Manatee County.