Stormwater Master Plan (SWMP)
Project Information
Miami Shores Village is developing a comprehensive Stormwater Master Plan (SWMP) to reduce flooding, improve stormwater infrastructure, and increase the community's resiliency against storms, sea level rise and climate impacts. The SWMP will evaluate the performance of the existing drainage system, identify stormwater problem areas, and develop capital improvement projects to address critical needs across the Village.
The SWMP will include a prioritized list of up to 10 major stormwater improvement projects (sub-basins), a long-term Operations & Maintenance (O&M) plan, and recommendations for potential upgrades to the Village’s stormwater utility rate. It will also incorporate sea level rise projections and water quality improvements to align with Miami Shores' environmental and resiliency goals.
Public input and coordination with Village departments, agencies, and residents will guide this process. Updates and community engagement opportunities will be posted here.
What is the purpose of the Stormwater Master Plan (SWMP)?
- The SWMP is a strategic planning document that evaluates how stormwater is managed across the Village and identifies system-wide solutions to reduce flooding, improve infrastructure performance, and support long-term resilience. The plan will result in a prioritized list of capital improvement projects, backed by data and engineering analysis.
Why is the Village taking a comprehensive approach instead of just addressing the worst flooding areas immediately?
- While localized flooding issues are important, drainage systems are interconnected. Addressing individual areas in isolation can shift water and worsen flooding elsewhere. A comprehensive approach allows the Village to address the root causes of flooding, ensuring that improvements are coordinated and effective across the entire system.
Will this plan address flooding in my neighborhood?
- The SWMP will analyze areas throughout the Village, including those with a history of flooding. It will help prioritize which neighborhoods require immediate attention and identify solutions that benefit the community as a whole. While not all areas will receive construction projects immediately, the plan ensures that all neighborhoods are evaluated and considered within a broader strategy.
Why are construction projects starting now before the master plan is completed?
- Several stormwater projects currently entering construction were approved and funded prior to the development of this SWMP. These projects were identified through earlier planning efforts, community complaints, or urgent infrastructure needs. The SWMP does not delay or replace those projects—instead, it complements them by identifying and prioritizing future improvements across the Village.
Will the SWMP replace or change previously approved projects?
- No. Projects that have already been funded and approved will proceed as scheduled. The SWMP is forward-looking and focused on establishing a pipeline of future improvements based on the latest data, analysis, and funding opportunities.
How are stormwater projects funded?
- Capital stormwater projects are primarily funded through a combination of Village funds, state and federal grants, and other external sources. In almost all cases, the availability of funding is the most significant factor in determining when and how projects can move forward.
How does the SWMP help secure funding?
- A completed and adopted SWMP is essential for demonstrating project readiness when applying for grants and state or federal funds. Many funding agencies prioritize “shovel-ready” projects—those with engineering analysis, cost estimates, and defined scopes already in place. The SWMP helps the Village fast-track high-priority improvements by creating this foundation.
Will there be changes to the stormwater utility rate?
- The SWMP may include recommendations for updates to the Village’s stormwater utility rate structure to support long-term maintenance and capital improvements. Any proposed changes would be reviewed by Village leadership and communicated to the public before implementation.
When will I see improvements in my neighborhood?
- The SWMP will be completed by the end of 2025. After that, the Village will pursue funding and design for the highest-priority projects. Some neighborhoods may see earlier improvements based on urgency, cost, and available funding. Project timelines will be posted on this page as they are confirmed.
Will there be field crews working in the neighborhood?
- Yes. As part of the data collection phase, field crews will be inspecting drainage infrastructure throughout the Village. This will include walking through neighborhoods to map inlets, pipes, and other stormwater features. No construction will occur during this phase, and crews will not enter private property without prior coordination.
How can I stay informed or provide feedback?
- The Village will host a series of public meetings throughout 2025 to gather resident input and share findings. Meeting dates and materials will be posted on this webpage. Residents may also contact the Public Works Department directly with questions or concerns.