In a recent meeting of the Fargo City Metro Flood Diversion Authority, significant progress was made regarding the Cheyenne River Mitigation Project, a crucial component of the larger flood diversion initiative. The authority is set to take responsibility for the design, construction, and operation of this project, which aims to address river impacts associated with the diversion efforts.

The Cheyenne River Mitigation Project, as outlined in the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documents, involves renovations and removals of existing structures along the Cheyenne River. Key modifications include the inlet structure and various gated structures that currently hinder the river's natural flow. The project also aims to restore an oxbow and make adjustments to a culvert and baffle structure near Horace, North Dakota.

The decision for the authority to assume control of the project stems from several factors. Firstly, the authority believes it can execute the project more efficiently due to its close collaboration with local entities, including the city of West Fargo and water resource districts. Additionally, the authority anticipates being more cost-effective than the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which has traditionally overseen such projects. Importantly, the completion of this mitigation project is essential for the federal construction to proceed, as federal funds will only be released to local sponsors once the project is finalized.

The meeting also addressed the procedural aspects of this transition. An initial memorandum for record (MFR) will be issued to facilitate the authority's takeover of the design and feasibility phases, pending a formal amendment to the existing Project Partnership Agreement (PPA). This amendment will require legislative approval, which is currently uncertain due to ongoing funding discussions in Congress.

The resolution to take over the Cheyenne River Mitigation Project was unanimously approved by the authority members, reflecting a strong consensus on the importance of local management in ensuring timely and effective flood mitigation efforts. As the authority moves forward, it will continue to work closely with federal partners to secure the necessary funding and approvals to advance this critical project.