Residents of Merriam are pushing back against two plans that would reshape the city’s downtown area in the name of flood mitigation. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has proposed a plan that would require the removal of 17 buildings and the construction of a levee and floodwall. The plan is designed to protect the area from a 100-year flood, but some residents are concerned about the impact it would have on the city’s historic downtown.

Flood Mitigation Efforts

The Corps’ plan is part of a larger effort to reduce the flood risk of Turkey Creek, which runs along downtown Merriam. The city has also been working with a private engineering firm to develop a separate flood mitigation plan. However, some residents are skeptical of the need for such measures, citing the fact that flooding has not been a major concern in the area for decades.

Despite these concerns, city officials say that the threat of flooding is still a real one. A 100-year flood could happen at any time, and the city needs to be prepared. The Corps’ plan is designed to withstand such an event, with the levee and floodwall heights being nearly 3 feet above the height of the water line from the 1998 flood.

The city is also in the process of developing a downtown master plan, which will guide future redevelopment in the area. The plan will take into account the flood mitigation efforts, as well as other factors such as economic development and community engagement.

Community Concerns

Some residents and business owners are concerned about the impact that the flood mitigation plans could have on the city’s historic downtown. The private engineering firm’s plan calls for the demolition of all of the buildings in the area, which could lead to the loss of the city’s character and charm. Others are concerned about the cost of the plans, which could be in excess of $73 million.

City officials say that they are committed to working with residents and business owners to find a solution that works for everyone. They are considering both the Corps’ plan and the private engineering firm’s plan, and will make a decision based on what is best for the city.

Original reporting: Johnson County Post (Overland Park) — read the source article.