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MARC and USACE present a $350 million watershed study; Raytown asked to fund a $20,885 study addendum
Summary
MARC and Corps consultants briefed the Board on a multi-jurisdictional Blue River Watershed feasibility study that identifies more than $1 billion in flood risk; the study proposes regional dry dams (one on Raytown reach) and estimated total costs just under $350 million if it progresses to construction. Raytown’s local addendum share of $20,885 was presented for approval as part of ongoing study work.
Tom Jacobs of the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC) presented a feasibility study conducted with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on June 17, describing flood risk and ecosystem degradation across a roughly 224-square-mile basin that includes Raytown. Jacobs said a CORES analysis identified more than $1 billion in cumulative flood risk and outlined a tentatively selected plan that includes ecosystem restoration and three regional dry detention facilities, one proposed on the Raytown reach (Dry Dam 5B).
Jacobs and MARC staff said the study phase is funded 50% locally and 50% federally; if the project advances to design and construction the Corps typically funds at least 65% with a 35% local match. MARC estimated the total program (design and construction) at just under $350 million and emphasized that the local partners would be responsible for long-term maintenance and potential land acquisition obligations. Jacobs said the Corps requested a small additional amount of resources to complete a more complete risk analysis on the dams; Raytown’s share of that addendum was presented as an ordinance item not to exceed $20,885.
Aldermen asked how Raytown’s share was apportioned. Jacobs said the feasibility-study cost share is based on percent of jurisdiction land area in the watershed; larger communities pay proportionally more. Alderman Walters expressed concern about paying for a study that may generate limited direct benefits in Raytown, noting Raytown’s estimated reductions in damages appeared comparatively small on the MARC slide deck. Jacobs said the study’s intent is to create a regional plan that the Corps can endorse for federal authorization and potential congressional appropriation in future Water Resources Development Acts.
No final local funding decision was taken beyond first-reading consideration of the intergovernmental agreement addendum during the June 17 session; staff indicated the item would return for formal consideration in the normal ordinance process.
