The Tampa City Council on Thursday approved the South Howard Flood Project, a multiyear effort aimed at reducing flooding in one of South Tampa’s busiest commercial and residential areas. The vote was 4-3. Tampa officials say the project will create a new stormwater drainage route to move water more quickly out of flood-prone, low-lying streets near South Howard Avenue. The project has drawn strong reactions from residents and business owners, with supporters pointing to recurring flooding concerns and opponents warning that prolonged construction could hurt local businesses. The city’s plan would require closing South Howard Avenue between Swann Avenue and Bayshore Boulevard in sections for up to a year. The city says it will take about four years to complete. The contractor is scheduled to begin this November and wrap up by September 2030.