The City of Destin has submitted its annual progress report to the Federal Emergency Management Agency detailing flood risk reduction efforts through stormwater management projects, fulfilling requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program’s Community Rating System.
- Destin’s coastal location makes it vulnerable to heavy rainfall from thunderstorms that typically bring 1 to 3 inches of rain, localized flood events exceeding 6 inches in a single storm, and tropical storms and hurricanes.
In recent years, the city has focused on identifying and remediating repetitive loss areas through projects aligned with the city’s Local Mitigation Strategy, according to the city.
Over the past year, Destin completed eight pipe replacement projects, converting corrugated metal pipes to concrete or HDPE pipe at the following locations:
- Indian Bayou Drive (117–135)
- 541 Sibert Ave.
- 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
The city also completed stormwater swales at Snapper Drive and Juanita Drive in fall 2025. A request for bids to replace stormwater piping with a bridge structure from Mattie Kelly Wetlands to Choctawhatchee Bay opened Oct. 30.
A repetitive loss area analysis is scheduled for City Council review and approval in fall 2025. The city is also working on updates to its Land Development Code related to floodplain management, stormwater management and water quality.
“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.”
