Dear Neighbors,
We would like to share an update on the Little Walnut Creek Flood Risk Reduction project. The stormwater infrastructure has been completed, but more work remains on the detention pond and new trees.
Flood Risk Reduction
We have completed improvements to the neighborhood’s stormwater infrastructure, significantly reducing the risk of flooding for over 70 homes in the area. New creek side weirs at Quail Valley Blvd. and Mountain Quail Road divert floodwater from Little Walnut Creek into a new 10-by-13-foot box culvert beneath Mearns Meadow Blvd. The culvert safely directs floodwaters to the detention pond at Quail Creek Neighborhood Park. The new infrastructure will reduce the depth and frequency of flooding. However, please note that some chance of flooding remains, and many homes will still be in the 100-year floodplain,
Remaining Work and Soccer Field Restoration
Although the major infrastructure work is complete, additional work is still needed before the overall project is finished. The most significant task that remains is restoring the detention pond in Quail Creek Neighborhood Park so that neighbors can use it for recreation during dry weather. The neighborhood previously used this space as open park fields, and we are committed to restoring the area so it can once again serve the community in the same way.
Currently, the pond is holding more water than anticipated even during dry weather. We have hired a consulting engineer to determine what improvements are needed to restore the field while maintaining its existing flood detention capacity. We do not have a final timeline for this work but expect it to take at least one year to complete. We expect to have more information about the recommended approach and next steps in 2027. We will share updates as they become available.
New Trees
We will also address the condition of newly planted trees throughout the project area. We are working with the project contractor and partnering City departments to ensure continued maintenance of these trees. We appreciate residents who have brought their concerns about the trees to our attention.
Project Background
The Little Walnut Creek Flood Risk Reduction project is designed to reduce flooding for homes and roadways near Little Walnut Creek, between Metric Boulevard and Rutland Drive. The project has a construction cost of approximately $28.8 million, funded by the City’s Drainage Utility Charge and 2018 and 2006 Bond Funds. Construction began in 2021, was temporarily placed on hold in 2022, and resumed in 2023 with a new contractor. The City remains committed to completing the remaining work and delivering long-term benefits to the community.
Questions, Contacts, and Email Updates
If this email was forwarded to you, you can sign up for email updates on the project page to stay informed about construction activities, detention pond restoration, and upcoming milestones.
Thank you for your continued patience and engagement as we work to complete the Little Walnut Creek Flood Risk Reduction project. We understand the importance of flood protection, neighborhood safety, and restoring community spaces, and we look forward to sharing more information as the remaining work progresses.
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