Manatee County approves more than $100 million for stormwater, hurricane recovery projects

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. (WWSB) - Manatee County is investing more than $100 million in infrastructure projects aimed at reducing flooding and strengthening communities following Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton.The first round of projects approved by county commissioners includes drainage improvements, stormwater technology, wastewater upgrades and protection for critical public facilities.Tom Gerstenberger, engineering division manager for Manatee County Public Works, and Ashley Schnitker, grants division manager for Lasting Manatee, joined ABC7 News at Noon and 1 p.m. to explain the investments and how residents can track the work.Gerstenberger said approximately $66 million is allocated to six public works projects in eligible low- and moderate-income areas. Those projects will address neighborhoods with a long history of flooding, including Center Lake and Shady Brook.“These communities, which includes Center Lake and Shady Brook, have historically experienced flooding, most recent