Today is May 31, 2026, and there’s some exciting news coming out of Midway, a small community in Seminole County, Florida. This week, construction crews kicked off the Midway Drainage Improvement Project, a long-awaited endeavor that aims to tackle the persistent flooding issues that have plagued residents for decades. Heavy rainfall has, unfortunately, turned streets into ponds, making everyday life a bit of a challenge for locals.
With the area, located just north of Orlando-Sanford International Airport, experiencing significant flooding—especially after Hurricane Ian—it’s clear that something had to be done. The project is set to overhaul the stormwater system, which hasn’t seen much love since the community was established in the 1920s as a residential area for black workers in celery production. Marlene Bettenhausen, one resident, has shared her frustration about the quickly filling ditches in front of her home during storms, a sentiment echoed by many in the community.
What’s in Store for Midway?
So, what exactly does this project entail? Well, the plan includes constructing new stormwater pipes, inlets, and ponds, as well as improving roadside swales and drainage systems. The goal is to increase the reliability and capacity of the drainage system, especially during those heavy downpours that seem to be happening more frequently. To put it simply, they’re aiming for a system that works when the heavens open up!
Mark your calendars because a formal groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for March 25. That’s just around the corner! The project, estimated to cost between $26 million and $30 million, is being funded through a combination of sources: $3.5 million from the American Rescue Plan Act, $8.5 million from state grants, $9.5 million from Seminole County’s infrastructure sales tax, and $6.5 million from the county’s general fund. It’s a significant investment in a community that has, quite frankly, been waiting far too long for these improvements.
Phased Approach and Community Impact
It’s important to note that the project will be carried out in phases and could take several years to complete, with an optimistic target of finishing as early as 2027. The crews will need to negotiate access with property owners, and while easement agreements have already been approved with about a dozen landowners, discussions are ongoing with roughly 50 more. It’s a big job, but the community seems to be ready for the change.
Once the work is done, the affected roads will be repaved, thanks to the Penny Sales Tax. This will not only improve the infrastructure but also enhance the overall look of the neighborhood. Residents have been crying out for help for years, and this project represents the most significant public works intervention in Midway’s history. It’s not just about fixing roads; it’s about restoring dignity to a community that’s faced years of neglect in terms of drainage infrastructure.
For those curious about the specifics, you can read more about the project and its impact on the community in detail from the original sources: My News 13 and Prism News. The hope is that with these improvements, Midway will finally see a reduction in flooding problems and a better quality of life for its residents.