Orange City leaders announced a major flood‑mitigation project designed to protect the popular Mill Lake Park area and surrounding neighborhoods. Heavy rain has repeatedly raised lake levels, spilling water onto U.S. 17‑92 and nearby streets, prompting residents to call for a more robust solution.
Why the new pump matters
Current pump capacity has struggled to keep pace with intense rain events. “If you look across the lake, you can see where a lot of the docks were underwater for a long time,” said longtime resident David Goodchild. The flooding not only disrupts park visitors but also threatens nearby homes, churches and businesses.
Project details
The city plans to construct a new pump station on the opposite side of Mill Lake. According to city spokesperson Justin Vallejo, the new unit will have more than 30 times the capacity of the existing pump, allowing water to be moved out of the area much more quickly.
“That’s a huge difference,” Vallejo said. “It’s going to give us opportunities to be able to pump both before the storm. So now we’re not just going to be reactive when a storm comes, but we can be proactive with it as well.”
The new system will also serve as a backbone for additional pumps throughout Orange City, channeling excess water to a nearby borrow pit. “It’s creating that backbone system,” Vallejo added. “This can be the heart of being able to help relieve flooding concerns in Orange City.”
Cost options and timeline
The city has completed design and permitting work and is now awaiting grant decisions before breaking ground. Three construction options are under consideration:
- $26.58 million for a 50‑cubic‑foot‑per‑second system
- $22.34 million for a 35‑cubic‑foot‑per‑second system
- $19.37 million for a 25‑cubic‑foot‑per‑second system
Construction is expected to begin in early 2027, pending funding approval.
Community impact
Local stakeholders have expressed optimism that the upgraded infrastructure will safeguard property and maintain the recreational value of Mill Lake Park. By reducing the frequency and severity of flood events, the city hopes to preserve the quality of life for families and businesses that call the area home.
The project aligns with Orange City’s broader commitment to proactive public‑works planning, ensuring that essential services keep pace with changing weather patterns. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about grant outcomes and construction schedules through the city’s official channels.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
