The City of Destin has submitted its annual update to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) detailing progress in reducing flood risk through targeted planning and construction of stormwater management projects. This annual report also fulfills the requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program’s Community Rating System (CRS).
Destin’s location on the Gulf of Mexico makes it vulnerable to heavy rainfall, from typical thunderstorms that bring 1 to 3 inches of rain, to localized flood events exceeding 6 inches in a single storm, as well as tropical storms and hurricanes. In recent years, the City has focused on identifying and remediating repetitive loss areas, aligning projects with the City’s Local Mitigation Strategy (LMS). This approach is delivering measurable results, reflected in the scope of stormwater and flood-control work completed over the last year.
Recent Stormwater Mitigation Projects Completed
Replacement of corrugated metal pipe with concrete or HDPE pipe at:
• Indian Bayou Drive (117–135)
• 541 Sibert Avenue
• Benning Drive at Bay Court
• Country Club West at Okeechobee
• Hickory Street at Calhoun Avenue
• Indian Bayou Drive at Chickasaw Way
• Industrial Park Drive at Airport Road
• Juanita Street to retention pond
Status: 8 projects completed
Additional projects and initiatives:
• Stormwater swales — Snapper Drive at Juanita Drive: Completed Fall 2025
• Replacement of stormwater piping with a bridge structure — Mattie Kelly Wetlands to Choctawhatchee Bay: Request for Bids opens October 30, 2025
• Repetitive Loss Area Analysis: Scheduled for City Council review and approval in Fall 2025
• Updates to the City’s Land Development Code related to floodplain management, stormwater management, and water quality: In process
“These investments reflect our commitment to protecting homes, businesses, and infrastructure by tackling known problem areas and planning for a more resilient future,” said Michael Burgess, Public Works Director. “We will continue to implement projects that reduce repetitive losses and improve stormwater performance citywide.”
