Ormond Beach Invests $16M in New Pump Station to Tackle Flooding and Safeguard Homes

ORMOND BEACH, Fla. — In a major effort to combat chronic flooding, the City of Ormond Beach has begun construction on a $16 million stormwater pump station that will significantly enhance the city’s ability to manage heavy rainfall and protect vulnerable neighborhoods.

A Major Step Toward Flood Prevention

The state-of-the-art pump station is designed to drain the equivalent of three Olympic-sized swimming pools within minutes. Once operational, it will drain stormwater from nearby retention ponds in under 12 hours and redirect excess water from the lake system to the Halifax River before major storms hit. The project aims to protect hundreds of homes, especially in flood-prone areas along the Fleming Avenue corridor, which has seen repeated water damage in recent years.

Funding Uncertain but Progress Underway

While construction is moving forward, the city is still waiting to hear back on a $9.4 million FEMA grant application that would cover more than half the cost. The remaining funding would likely come from the city’s stormwater utility fund, though exact figures remain uncertain. City officials believe in the system's design, but acknowledge the true test will come during the next severe storm.

A History of Flooding

Ormond Beach neighborhoods have long struggled with storm-related flooding. The problem worsened during events like Hurricane Milton in October 2024, when entire driveways and front yards were submerged. Though the city operates an existing pump station in another area, it proved insufficient during that storm, highlighting the urgent need for expanded infrastructure.

Residents Hopeful

Local residents, many of whom have dealt with flooding for years, are cautiously optimistic. “All the lakes are connected, and the city does pump them, but it just wasn’t enough,” said homeowner Kit Christiansen. “If this helps in the end, that’s a great thing. I know they’re spending a lot of money to help us out, so we’re hanging in there with them.”

What’s Next?

Construction is expected to continue through 2026, with full completion projected for 2027. In the meantime, city leaders are focused on securing federal funding and keeping residents informed as progress continues. As storms grow stronger and more frequent, Ormond Beach joins a growing number of Florida cities investing in proactive infrastructure to better protect their communities.

Ormond Beach Invests $16M in New Pump Station to Tackle Flooding and Safeguard Homes

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