Tackling Stormwater and Flooding in Naples

The Challenge

Naples faces serious stormwater and flooding challenges due to its low elevation, proximity to the Gulf of America, and increasingly intense rainfall events. Most of the city lies within a regulated floodplain, meaning flooding can occur anywhere — not just near the coast. Rainfall is the leading cause of flooding, but storm surge and tidal waters also contribute, especially during high tides and hurricanes. The city’s gravity-based stormwater system often struggles to drain effectively during these conditions, leading to flooded streets, swales, and properties.

What’s Being Done

The City of Naples has launched several major initiatives to address these issues:

• Stormwater Beach Outfall Project: A landmark $86 million infrastructure upgrade is underway to replace aging stormwater pipes along Gulf Shore Boulevard. The project includes:
  • Installation of larger pipes (24–54 inches in diameter)
  • Two new pump stations to push stormwater 1,500 feet offshore
  • Enhanced catch basins and underground drainage systems
  • Goals: reduce flooding, improve water quality, and protect coastal habitats like sea turtle nesting areas
• Lakes Improvement Project: Restoration of North and South Lakes to increase stormwater storage capacity and improve water quality. This includes dredging to remove nutrient-rich sediment and enhance flood mitigation.
• Floodproofing Guidelines: The city has updated regulations to guide property owners on safe and compliant floodproofing methods. This includes wet floodproofing for residential buildings and dry floodproofing for commercial structures, with strict permitting requirements.
• Use of Technology: Tools like the ACUNE GeoTool are helping planners assess future flood risks under sea level rise and storm surge scenarios. These tools inform vulnerability assessments and adaptation plans.

What Still Needs to Be Done

Despite progress, Naples must continue to invest in long-term resilience:

• Expand Infrastructure Upgrades: The current projects are a strong start, but ALL of the neighborhoods in the City of Naples need modern stormwater systems, not just Old Naples.
• Accelerate Permitting and Funding: Delays in approvals from agencies like the South Florida Water Management District have stalled critical projects. Streamlining these processes is essential.
• Strengthen Regional Collaboration: Flooding doesn’t respect city boundaries. Naples must work closely with Collier County and state agencies to coordinate mitigation strategies and secure funding.
• Promote Community Preparedness: Residents need better access to flood risk information, elevation certificates, and personalized property assessments. The city offers these services, but outreach must be expanded.
• Address Climate Change Impacts: Rising seas and more intense storms mean flooding risks will grow. Naples must continue updating its adaptation plans and invest in nature-based solutions like wetland restoration and permeable landscaping.