Mount Dora Rebuilds Donnelly Street After Flood | The Locally Times
The City of Mount Dora awarded the Donnelly Street reconstruction contract to The Middlesex Corporation, with completion anticipated by May 2026 to prevent future flooding.
The City of Mount Dora has initiated a comprehensive reconstruction of Donnelly Street, with construction expected to conclude by May 2026. This project aims to address previous flood damage and enhance the area's drainage infrastructure. The City selected The Middlesex Corporation as the contractor for the roadway reconstruction, as detailed in a City of Mount Dora News Flash updated April 2, 2026. Construction on Donnelly Street is scheduled to commence on March 24, 2026. The project timeline anticipates completion by May 2026, though this is subject to unforeseen delays. The City’s records indicate downtown Mount Dora remains open and accessible during the construction period. ## Project Scope and Contractor Selection The Donnelly Street roadway reconstruction project completed its bid process with the selection of The Middlesex Corporation. The City of Mount Dora News Flash, last updated April 2, 2026, notes the firm's experience in bridge replacement, highway and interchange infrastructure, and paving and resurfacing. The selection followed a bidding period that closed in mid-March, as stated in a March 2, 2026 update from the City. This phase ensures the full restoration of the street, which serves as a key gateway into downtown Mount Dora. ## Comprehensive Flood Mitigation Strategy The City of Mount Dora has adopted a comprehensive approach to address system-wide conditions and prevent recurring issues, rather than focusing solely on visible damage. This strategy aims to build long-term resilience for the area's infrastructure. ## Ongoing Infrastructure Upgrades and Funding In conjunction with the roadway reconstruction, utility upgrades are underway. The rerouting of potable and reclaimed water lines along Grandview Street and Fiddler Avenue is approximately 50 percent complete. These improvements support the redesigned roadway and drainage infrastructure, enhancing long-term system reliability. The City has also secured outside funding assistance to help offset project costs, reducing the financial impact locally, as reported in the April 2, 2026 News Flash. ## Key Questions **When will Donnelly Street construction begin and end?** Construction is scheduled to begin on March 24, 2026, with anticipated completion by May 2026, pending any unforeseen delays. **What is the purpose of this reconstruction project?** The project aims to rebuild Donnelly Street after a flood event, address system-wide drainage conditions, and prevent recurring issues through a comprehensive analysis of the entire drainage basin.