Here’s a look at current progress on the city’s first stormwater detention basin, located near the west end of Deatherage Avenue.
Below is a brief background of the project:
The city completed a stormwater evaluation and management planning study in 2013 for the watershed and primary drainage system throughout the entire city. From this, four regional detention facilities were planned to be constructed to reduce peak flow volumes in the downstream system. In 2019, the city was awarded a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for the construction of one detention basin at the North Fork of Howell Creek. The city also received funds from the Economic Development Administration (EDA) for the remaining three basins to be located at the Burton Branch, Galloway Creek and the South Fork of Howell Creek. Earthen berms will be constructed and are expected to reduce peak flows by about 33 percent.
The project experienced several delays, including the COVID-19 pandemic, that resulted in an extended timeline for completion as well as soaring costs of materials. The city has been working closely with the South Central Council of Governments (SCOCOG) and representatives to find ways to move forward with the project. Funds have been reallocated to allow for construction to begin on the North Fork Basin, which is currently underway. The city is also requestion a reallocation of funds from the EDA to support the construction of the Galloway Basin. Plans for the remaining basins are pending additional funding at this time.