Owner’s of Million Dollar Homes on the Water in South Tampa finally get the approval on Canal Dredging by the City Of Tampa. If you are looking to purchase a home on one of the canals that is scheduled for dredging; this is very important information to know.
As a Realtor working with buyers, I would advise you to visit a property at low tide, as there could be a difference of 3′ in water levels between high and low tides. This may also be the best time to buy on the water, as property values will increase significantly once the waterways become navigable.
How did the City determine affected homes?
A recent survey identified approximately 600 properties that do not meet the stated Level of Service(LOS) of 3 feet of water at mean low tide in the center of the canal. These “possibly affected” properties will be confirmed by a final professional survey. Properties below LOS will be included in the plan.
My canal has much less sediment than others, why do I have to pay the same amount?
Tampa canals vary greatly in size, shape and amount of sediment. Having unique costs associated with precise sediment removal would require the City to establish a Special Assessment Area on a per property or per canal basis, which is not feasible.
Why was the LOS chosen to be three feet at mean low water?
This is a common engineering practice and will provide reasonable depth for navigation and tidal flow.
What’s the benefit?
- Environmental benefits from improved water circulation, creating and restoring marine habitat, and improvement to the Tampa Bay estuary system
- Residents benefit from usable canals and a maintenance program that secures the future condition of our waterways
- City of Tampa benefits by solving a problem that has plagued the City for decades and will improve the quality of life in the area
