Residents in northeast Hillsborough County got a reality check on flood risks when Hurricane Milton struck last year, effectively turning Morris Bridge Road into a part of the Hillsborough River. Now, motorists are faced with the challenge of navigating around this vulnerable corridor that, during the 100-year flood, disappears from visibility on the floodplain map.
According to Hillsborough County’s website, Morris Bridge Road falls within the Hillsborough River Watershed, making its preservation an essential element in the stormwater inventory strategy for the county. During storm events, drainage systems under the road work overtime to prevent the seven-mile stretch from I-75 northeast to Cross Creek Boulevard from succumbing to inundation.
Unfortunately for those looking for a quick detour, the alternatives are few and far between. Due to its precarious position in the floodplain and lack of connectivity with other roads, anyone trying to bypass the area can expect delays as there simply aren’t many collector roads to distribute the traffic…