This action approves an award in the amount of $1,819,600 to tampa BAY estuary program (tbep) to invest in natural infrastructure stormwater retrofits that better serve these communities, and the…

This action approves an award in the amount of $1,819,600 to tampa BAY estuary program (tbep) to invest in natural infrastructure stormwater retrofits that better serve these communities, and the broader set of ecological functions that unmodified tidal tributary systems and shorelines typically elicit in southwest florida estuaries (e.g., enhanced nutrient attenuation, carbon sequestration, and fish and wildlife habitat). In doing so, increased social and ecological resilience to future climate change vulnerabilities for these coastal communities and systems will result. This agreement is supported by funding provided under the infrastructure investment and jobs act (IIJA) (PL 117-58.activities:this project aims to invest in natural infrastructure stormwater retrofits that better serve these communities, and the broader set of ecological functions that unmodified tidal tributary systems and shorelines typically elicit in southwest florida estuaries (e.g., enhanced nutrient attenuation, carbon sequestration, and fish and wildlife habitat). In doing so, increased social and ecological resilience to future climate change vulnerabilities for these coastal communities and systems will result.subrecipient:JOE's creek greenway restoration project phase II (pinellas county), little bayou creek (ST. Petersburg), GAP creek (manatee county) and archie creek (hillsborough county).outcomes:tampa BAY estuary program - outputs and deliverables tbep BIL funds will primarily be used to support design and permitting for partner projects that will enhance flood resiliency within tidal creek watersheds inclusive of underserved/frontline communities. Further, design elements utilizing tbep BIL funds are targeted towards nature-based components that further implement the 2020 habitat master plan. Education and outreach to the surrounding communities on overall project benefits is also targeted for the JOE's, little bayou, and archie creek projects. Tbep intends to enter into separate contract agreements with the 4 primary project partners to further delineate the scope, tasks, milestones and budget for each project. The citizens of florida will be the intended beneficiaries.