State Lawmakers Deliver $470,000 for St. Cloud Flood Control and Emergency Response; Hopkins Park Funding Vetoed

During Thursday’s St. Cloud City Council meeting, State Senator Kristen Arrington and State Representative Paula Starke presented the City with a $470,000 check to support two public-safety projects funded in this year’s Florida Legislative Session.

The allocation includes $300,000 for a water-filled dam system that can be rapidly deployed to mitigate flood risks during hurricanes and other severe weather, and $170,000 for a new fire boat to assist first responders with medical emergencies on local waterways.

City officials also sought funding for planned improvements to Hopkins Park. While $500,000 for that project was included in the state budget, it was vetoed by the Governor.

Despite the setback, the City is nearing design completion for Phase 1 of a planned $10 million Hopkins Park renovation. Phase 1 is expected to include a new recreation center, basketball courts, a baseball field, multi-use fields, a community garden, a playground, and a parking lot. Stormwater system upgrades in the area are already underway to prepare for the new facilities. Future phases are slated to add new ballfields and fitness trails.