September 4, 2025

St. Petersburg Secures $160 Million for Disaster Recovery

News Summary

St. Petersburg has received approval from HUD for the Sunrise St. Pete initiative, which channels $160 million in federal funding for disaster recovery post-Hurricanes Idalia and Helene. Targeting housing, infrastructure, and community revitalization, the plan prioritizes low- and moderate-income residents. With allocations for residential recovery, long-term housing resilience, public infrastructure, and community support services, the initiative aims to bolster the city’s recovery and long-term sustainability, progressing towards the implementation of programs by early 2026.

St. Petersburg has received approval from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for its Sunrise St. Pete initiative, paving the way for $160 million in federal funding aimed at disaster recovery following Hurricanes Idalia (2023) and Helene (2024). The initiative seeks to address critical recovery and rebuilding needs in the city.

HUD’s approval marks a key milestone, allowing St. Petersburg to move forward with its action plan which has been carefully crafted with community input. This funding will primarily focus on housing, infrastructure, and community revitalization while targeting resources towards low- and moderate-income residents.

While not every resident will be eligible for direct financial assistance, the initiative is designed to bolster the entire community of St. Petersburg. The action plan categorizes the total funding into several key areas:

$61 million for near-term residential recovery and relief, which includes:
- $35 million for residential recovery and elevation rehabilitation
- $14 million for disaster relief reimbursement
- $12 million for residential recovery and elevation reimbursements
$58 million targeted at long-term housing resilience, including:
- $48 million for affordable rental housing
- $5 million for homebuyer assistance
- $5 million for voluntary buyouts and acquisitions
$25 million allocated for public infrastructure mitigation, specifically stormwater improvements
$6 million designated for community support services
Approximately $10 million earmarked for planning and administration over a six-year grant period:
- $7.9 million for program administration
- $1.9 million for post-disaster improvement and planning

In order to begin distribution of funds and implementation of programs, HUD is expected to finalize the grant agreement with the city by the end of September or October. Programs are anticipated to commence in early 2026.

Eligibility for direct aid is set for residents earning up to 80% of the area median income, with allowances extending to 120% in cases of urgent needs. The residential recovery and elevation program aims to provide funding options for rehabilitation, reconstruction, or reimbursements for single-family homeowners and small rental property owners with up to four units. Additionally, a Disaster Relief Reimbursement Program is being established to support households impacted by qualifying disasters.

As part of the planning process, a draft action plan was made available for feedback from residents until June 23, prior to a public hearing scheduled for June 12, where the city council will discuss the proposed action plan further. This inclusive process ensures that the recovery priorities align with community needs.

The St. Petersburg government has worked in conjunction with professional services firm HORNE to assess community priorities and unmet needs throughout the recovery plan’s development. The Sunrise St. Pete initiative aims not only to facilitate immediate disaster recovery but also to promote long-term resilience and sustainable community development in the face of future challenges.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER

ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

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