In a recent government meeting, city officials discussed a significant project aimed at alleviating flooding issues in local neighborhoods. Jamie Knutson, the city engineer, outlined plans to purchase approximately 14.2 acres of property along a drainage way that runs from Audubon through various residential areas, ultimately connecting to Blackhawk Creek. The initiative is designed to create a large detention basin that will help manage stormwater runoff, preventing overwhelming flooding in downstream neighborhoods.
Knutson emphasized that the project is crucial for both the city and its residents, stating that it would not only protect the infrastructure but also provide substantial benefits to those living in flood-prone areas. The proposed basin will hold water temporarily and release it slowly, mitigating the risk of flooding and improving drainage.
The estimated cost of the project is around $3 million, with funding sourced from a combination of state funding through the State Revolving Fund (SRF) and local stormwater fees. This project is part of a broader 20 to 30-year vision for improving the city’s stormwater management system.
Concerns were raised during the meeting regarding the responsibility of the current property owner to address water management issues. Some officials questioned why the city needed to invest in the property to improve drainage, suggesting that it might be in the owner's best interest to take action themselves. However, the overarching goal remains clear: to enhance the city's infrastructure and protect its residents from future flooding challenges.