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Dubuque seeks $11.3 million from FEMA BRIC for B Branch Creek flood mitigation
Summary
City engineers told the council they are applying for a FEMA BRIC grant to fund $15.1 million of stormwater work on 17th and West Locust corridors; FEMA would fund 75% ($11.325M), the State 10% ($1.51M) and the city’s local share would be 15% ($2.265M). Council approved submittal 7–0.
City staff told the Dubuque City Council on July 20 they will submit a FEMA BRIC grant application to fund stormwater upgrades in the B Branch Creek watershed, focusing on the 17th Street and West Locust corridors.
Assistant city engineer Bob Shissel and City Engineer Gus Ahoyas described a package of improvements—primarily upsizing underground storm sewer capacity—to reduce urban flooding in areas where heavy rain has recently caused street and vehicle damage. The proposed project budget totals $15,100,000: FEMA BRIC 75% ($11,325,000), State of Iowa 10% ($1,510,000), and a city local cost share of 15% ($2,265,000).
Shissel said the team engaged a BCA (benefit‑cost analysis) consultant to meet FEMA scoring rules and that some corridors (e.g., an upper segment of West Locust and the Kauffman Corridor) did not meet BRIC’s benefit‑cost thresholds and therefore were excluded. Staff noted the city has already programmed significant stormwater funds in the capital improvement program and that a successful grant would free local dollars for other work.
Council members thanked staff for the application and emphasized the project’s potential to reduce flooding that damages vehicles and streets. The council voted 7–0 to adopt the resolution approving the grant application submittal.
