Posted on January 11, 2023
The City of Naples has begun a $34-$36 million dollar stormwater outfall project off the coast of Naples Beach.
“This is not a small project … but it is something that will really benefit this area,” said Bob Middleton, the Public Works Director for the City of Naples.
The project will construct a pipeline from 3rd Avenue North and Gulf Shore Boulevard North in Olde Naples, a few thousand feet into the Gulf of Mexico. It will pump and release stormwater if floods during the rainy season occur.
“This is not for surge control. This is for our usual afternoon rains, our rain storm events, said Middleton. “It will reduce flooding, treat the stormwater before it’s pumped out into the Gulf.”
The pipeline also includes a filtration system, which will help prevent runoff and pollution, therefore assisting in stopping the growth of red tide.
Previous stormwater systems were gravity-based. Therefore high tide prevented the pipelines from removing water. This system will not have any reliance on gravity.
“The new pump station system doesn’t care about the tide. That will pump whatever water comes into it,” said Middleton.
The City’s Public Works Department tells NBC2 that the construction project should be finished in early February. Following that, the large dredging barge will move to 8th St. North for a second pipeline.
No beaches will be impacted by the construction. At this time, 3rd Ave. North and 2nd Ave. North beach accesses are closed. Road closures could occur as construction continues along Gulf Shore Boulevard North.
“I don’t believe there is anything on the beach that keeps people from going north and south on the beach,” said Middleton.
This is an ongoing story. Count on NBC2 to keep you updated as more information comes into our newsroom.
