Apopka Pursues Large Grant to Tackle Flooding Issues

APOPKA, Fla. – The city of Apopka is actively seeking grant funding worth millions from the state to address and reduce flooding issues surrounding the Piedmont chain of lakes.

On Wednesday, the city council will vote to authorize the execution of a $2.5 million grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

The funding would further work on the Wekiva Springs Region Aquifer Recharge and Flood Protection Project.

The initiative gained approval in March following the overflow of water into a shopping center, a townhome community, a nearby neighborhood, and onto Piedmont Parkway after excessive rainfall from Hurricane Milton. Piedmont Parkway serves as a link between the city and State Road 436.

As per city reports, several lakes involved in the project have historically experienced flooding, affecting roadways, businesses, and residences during severe weather events.

If the grant funding is approved, work would begin on the project to reduce reliance on two drainage wells that serve Lake Page and Lake Pleasant.

The city said stormwater removed from the lakes would be added to the city’s reclaimed water treatment and distribution network.

Jack Berrell’s home was flooded during Hurricane Milton, and he said he was hopeful to hear about the city’s plan to improve drainage in the area.

“Being right here and just starting hurricane season, I’ve got optimism that it’s not going to be able to encroach my property,” Berrell said.

The city council will vote on the grant during its meeting on Wednesday at 7 p.m.