Residents can fill up to 10 sandbags this Saturday to bolster flood defenses for future weather events.
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – In a move to empower residents with early preparedness, Hillsborough County will open five self-serve sandbag sites this Saturday, August 2. This initiative offers citizens the opportunity to proactively prepare for potential flooding, even in the absence of an imminent storm threat.
Traditionally, the county offers sandbags only when a tropical storm or hurricane forecast looms. However, recognizing the significant impact of last year’s hurricane-related flooding, officials are taking a forward-thinking approach, allowing residents to fortify their properties in advance.
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The five sites, strategically chosen due to their proximity to communities heavily affected by last year’s flooding, will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.
The county will provide sand, empty bags, and a limited number of shovels. Residents are encouraged to bring their own shovels if possible. Each household, upon showing proof of residency such as a driver’s license or utility bill, will be eligible for a maximum of 10 sandbags.
Pre-filled sandbags will not be available, requiring residents to fill their own.
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The five self-serve sandbag locations are:
- Northlakes Sports Complex, 2640 N. Lakeview Dr., Tampa, FL 33618
- Shimberg Sports Complex, 7309 Baseball Ave., Tampa, FL 33634
- Providence West Park, 5405 Providence Rd., Riverview, FL 33578
- E.G. Simmons Conservation Park, 2401 19th Ave. NW, Ruskin, FL 33570
- Burnett Sports Complex, 11655 Clay Pit Rd., Seffner, FL 33550
Please note that all parks listed, with the exception of E.G. Simmons Conservation Park (which will maintain normal operating hours), will be closed for other activities on Saturday to facilitate sandbag operations. The pickleball courts at Northlakes Sports Complex will remain open.
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