DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – A two-year study aimed at finding flooding solutions for Daytona Beach’s Midtown neighborhood has ended without a viable fix — leaving residents and city leaders disappointed and, in many cases, feeling stuck.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers concluded the study, saying any meaningful solution would cost far more than the city has or could realistically secure through federal funding.
Patricia Singleton has lived on Caroline Street for 60 years, and many of her neighbors have, too. With hurricane season just weeks away, anxiety in the community is running high.
“It’s just getting worse and worse and we don’t know what to do,” said Singleton.
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The Midtown neighborhood sits in a low-lying bowl in Daytona Beach. During storms, water pours in and drains out slowly to the Halifax River — or, during high tide, gets pushed back in entirely. Even lesser storms leave significant flooding behind. The situation drew widespread attention in 2022 when hurricanes caused severe flooding in the area.
“We’re hoping and praying and sitting on pins and needles because once they say it’s coming, I know what’s going to happen,” said Singleton.
The Army Corps identified its best potential solution as one that would exceed the city’s financial reach. It also suggested the city pursue federal funds to buy out 40 of the most flood-prone homes as the most cost-effective option — but acknowledged that approach would leave hundreds of other flood-affected properties without relief.
“With the buyout, would it even be enough for me to purchase another house?” questioned Singleton.
Daytona Beach City Manager Deric C. Feacher responded with a written statement addressing the study’s outcome.
“While we are disappointed by the Army Corps’ findings, the study represents a critical step toward fully understanding the complex causes of flooding in our city’s core. The city is actively partnering with Volusia County to develop a comprehensive, citywide Stormwater Management Plan that will prioritize infrastructure improvements and identify projects aimed at reducing localized flooding throughout the entire community. While no stormwater system can completely prevent flooding during catastrophic rainfall or extreme weather events, these efforts are intended to reduce impacts where possible and better protect residents and property during more routine storm conditions.”
Deric C. Feacher, city manager
The city acknowledged there will not be a 100% solution for the Midtown area, but said smaller-scale and maintenance projects could help alleviate flooding during minor weather events.
For Singleton, the uncertainty is hard to sit with.
“I just pray and hope that we can make it through another year and see if they can get something or do something to get us out of this situation,” said Singleton.