Flooding a Concern for Lutz Residents

Whether Tropical Storm Isaac makes an appearance or not, some Lutz residents are already dealing with more standing water than they’d like.

Dawn Hudson lives along Green Meadow Drive. Already there is “ankle-deep water” in her yard. Similar problems are also plaguing her neighbors and those who live along nearby Clement Road, she said.

“The drainage ditches on the side of the road are failing,” Hudson said. “The pipes are too small. (We) had to call the county because water is backing up too much. The storms that are coming, even if they’re minor … it’s going to be ugly.”

Hillsborough County spokesman Steve Valdez said Hudson’s story is similar to those he’s heard from many others throughout the summer.

“We had the wettest dry season we have had in decades,” Valdez said. “We have standing water in numerous, numerous locations – too numerous to count.”

Valdez said in some cases residents will just have to wait for their yards to dry out naturally. If the issue, however, is related to storm sewer or culverts backing up, however, the county wants to know about it.

“Let us know if you think there’s a restriction in a stormwater culvert (and we’ll) send an inspector out to check it,” he said. “If it’s not open, we’ll take care of it.”

Hudson said she has contacted the county and was told an inspector would come out to her neighborhood. Even so, she’s not sure that will happen fast enough with Tropical Storm Isaac’s path still unknown. With that in mind, she’s planning to email county commissioners to ask for help.

With all the recent rains, Valdez said the county is in “health and safety mode.”

“Our challenge right now … is to make sure the roadways are staying functional,” he said. “(We’re) maintaining the best we can.”

Residents who are concerned that storm drains are clogged can report concerns by calling 813-635-5400.

Are you experiencing problems with standing water in your neighborhood? Let us know about it by commenting below. You can also add your photos to this story.