Conservation group, resident urge stronger floodplain protections for proposed 170th–Metcalf development in Overland Park

Scott Scholte, a member of the Heartland Conservation Alliance board of directors, and resident Marlene Carter told the Overland Park City Council on April 7 they want stricter protections tied to a proposed development and rezoning near 170th Street and Metcalf Avenue.

Scholte said the alliance, which he described as a coalition of regional organizations and community members, has focused its review on the Blue River watershed and had provided written comments to the planning commission in December 2024. "We feel the proposed plan actually does accomplish the objectives that we recommended for that project," Scholte said, noting the plan leaves the majority of the flood plain as open space and commits to restoring and protecting more than 40 acres of floodplain vegetation along the Blue River.

The Heartland Conservation Alliance testimony emphasized floodplain vegetation as a key factor in reducing downstream flooding, protecting stream banks, preserving water quality and maintaining habitat connectivity. Scholte said the alliance commends the parties involved for optimizing open-space and trail connections but asked the council to ensure permanent protections for all riparian segments and tributary vegetation.

During the same public-comment period, Marlene Carter said she is concerned the planned Blackhawk Trail neighborhood — which she described as approximately 150 single-family homes and duplexes — would sit in a flood plain and rely on a single access point to Metcalf Avenue. "This is over three times the recommended 50 units per access point with duplexes and single-family homes outlined in the Overland Park design standards," Carter said, adding that the depth and length of a cul-de-sac on the plan would conflict with city codes and create safety and sight-distance problems.

Carter also raised concerns about residents who may not be able to afford flood insurance and said some portions of the developer's proposed open space preservation did not include permanent restoration commitments for the northern bank of the Blue River.

The speakers did not request a specific council vote during the meeting. Council members did not take formal action on the development during the April 7 meeting; the comments were entered as part of the public record for the planning process.

The Heartland Conservation Alliance offered to continue working with city staff and developers as the project moves through the development process; Scholte said the alliance's members are available as technical resources.