Grace Drive stormwater improvements project set to enhance drainage and infrastructure in Harbour Inlet neighborhood

Fort Lauderdale, Florida – The City of Fort Lauderdale is preparing to launch a new infrastructure effort aimed at strengthening drainage and protecting coastal neighborhoods from tidal and storm-related impacts. Working alongside contractor David Mancini & Sons, Inc., the city will begin the Grace Drive Stormwater Improvements Project in the Harbour Inlet area.

Officials say the project focuses on upgrading key parts of the stormwater system along the northern shoulder of Grace Drive. The work is designed to improve water flow and reduce flooding risks, especially during periods of heavy rain or high tides that can affect low-lying coastal roads.

The scope of the project includes replacing an existing catch basin, installing a new tidal valve, and restoring landscaping that will be impacted during construction. City representatives note that these upgrades are part of ongoing efforts to modernize aging stormwater infrastructure and improve resilience in waterfront communities.

Construction is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, and is expected to be completed by Friday, August 7, 2026. Work will take place Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m., although officials caution that the timeline may shift depending on weather conditions or other unexpected delays.

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During the construction period, residents in the area should expect some disruptions. Intermittent noise is anticipated throughout the workday due to the use of heavy machinery, equipment operations, and standard backup safety alarms. City officials are advising nearby homeowners to plan accordingly, especially during peak working hours.

Traffic patterns along Grace Drive will also be affected. The westbound lane of Grace Drive west of S. Ocean Drive may be closed daily while crews are active on site. To help manage flow and ensure safety, traffic control personnel will be present to guide vehicles through the area as needed.

Despite the lane closures, access to nearby driveways will be maintained whenever possible. In cases where work takes place directly across from residential entrances, temporary restrictions may occur. Contractors say they will attempt to coordinate in advance with residents whenever driveway access could be impacted.

Drivers traveling through the area are being urged to follow posted signs carefully and reduce speed near the construction zone. Officials emphasize that caution will be especially important as both workers and vehicles share a limited space along the roadway.

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City representatives have also acknowledged that construction projects of this nature can cause inconvenience, but they stress that the long-term benefits are significant. Improved stormwater infrastructure is expected to enhance drainage capacity and provide better protection for surrounding neighborhoods during severe weather events.

“We apologize in advance for any inconvenience and thank our neighbors for their patience during construction.”

As the project moves forward, officials say the goal is to complete the upgrades efficiently while minimizing disruption as much as possible for residents and commuters in the Harbour Inlet area.