Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce Inc issued the following announcement on Nov. 18
The highly anticipated City of Davenport flood resilience study is nearing its final approval, and we’re pleased to share the new roadmap to our 9-mile flood mitigation system of the future. Designed by engineering experts at HR Green, the plan brings a mix of incremental and transformational improvements that provide clear solutions to tackle Davenport’s unique relationship with the Mighty Mississippi.
The Quad Cities Chamber, on behalf of the entire Quad Cities business community, and Downtown Davenport Partnership, representing the many downtown Davenport business improvement district stakeholders, advocated for a long-term comprehensive flood mitigation strategy for the entire QC region. We asked for considerations like keeping key transportation routes open and businesses accessible, flood mitigation for as high as possible, engaging a professional firm and to not be hindered by financial constraints.
Thank you City of Davenport for taking our region’s concerns seriously and creating a roadmap to better protect our most treasured places and people that make up the soul of Davenport. Keeping commerce open longer and providing higher levels of protection to our key neighborhoods is a priority. So too is maintaining our favorite riverfront parks and amenities that define our community.
Not surprisingly, there’s no single or easy answer to pull this off. It will require a holistic approach. Underground sewer improvements, pumping stations, berms, road elevation changes and deployment of temporary protections are all on the list. Even better detours and individual private property improvements are key priorities. We need to reduce the impact of flooding on day-to-day lives and our local economy, including our ability to recover more quickly.
The whole system can be built in a phased approach to leverage multiple funding strategies, mitigating more flood risk incrementally over the years. The $165 million price tag may seem like a lot, but it’s only 22% of Cedar Rapids’ $750 million flood management plan. Davenport’s identity and our regional future is tied to making sure these solutions are prioritized. The impact of this plan will matter whether you’re a riverfront regular or not – our collective economic well-being is at stake.
From the flood task force recommendations in 2019 to the hundreds of public comments made through the study, this has included input from a wide variety of businesses, individuals and organizations. Thank you to everyone in the community who has participated, and a special thank you to City of Davenport elected officials and staff.
Yes, it’s a big idea. Yes, we can do this. And yes, we strongly encourage taking the time to read at least the presentation to Davenport City Council. Want the deep dive? Read the whopping 336-page full report that breaks down every corridor of the 9 miles.
We look forward to working with the City of Davenport over the years to ensure this historic flood mitigation plan is implemented with diligence as quickly as possible.
Original source can be found here.
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