County Council Greenlights $133.5 Million for Stormwater and Flood Mitigation Improvements
Posted On: May 7, 2025
A Hurricane Milton recovery plan approved by the Volusia County Council during its May 6 meeting will direct $100 million of federal grant funds into stormwater improvements, future storm protection, and voluntary buyouts to support flood-impacted homeowners.
The $133.5 million plan, funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant–Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program, focuses on long-term resilience and helping the community rebuild stronger. Approximately $80 million will be invested in infrastructure and mitigation projects that strengthen stormwater systems, upgrade outdated drainage, and reduce vulnerability to future storms. These funds will be used to partner with Volusia County municipalities and nonprofit organizations to repair damage caused by Hurricane Milton and build infrastructure that helps protect communities across the county from future disasters.
Another $20 million will be used to fund a voluntary buyout program to assist property owners in high-risk areas who have experienced repeated storm damage. Once acquired, the land will be preserved as open space or used for floodplain restoration, reducing the risk of future damage while contributing to long-term community resilience. In addition, $20.2 million is set aside for a repair and replacement program to help eligible low- to moderate-income homeowners rebuild their lives.
Shaped by months of public input, the plan reflects the priorities most important to residents—especially the need to strengthen drainage systems, reduce future flooding risks, and relieve property owners facing repeated storm impacts. Residents participated in the planning by sharing their experiences and concerns through public meetings, an online survey, and formal public hearings. The final action plan will be submitted to HUD for review and approval. For more information, visit www.transform386.org.
