JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON -- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Alaska District prepared a draft integrated feasibility report and environmental assessment for proposed improvements to the Lowell Creek flood diversion project in Seward.
The tentatively selected plan recommends the construction of a new flood diversion system. It is available for public review and to elicit comments.
“Public safety is our top priority and we are committed to addressing risks associated with aging infrastructure,” said Bruce Sexauer, chief of the Civil Works Branch. “This is an important project for the citizens of Seward, and we will continue to work with our partners to achieve a viable solution.”
New structural components would include a new 18-foot diameter tunnel upstream from the existing one; refurbishing the existing tunnel; extending the outfall 150-feet to carry flow and debris over the road; a new canopy to protect the tunnel inlet from landslides; and improving the low-flow diversion system. The project would include tree removal, implementation of an early warning system and evacuation plan. The total project cost is $124.6 million.
The existing flood diversion system in Lowell Creek Canyon does not adequately manage flood events and presents a risk to public safety, property and critical infrastructure with little to no warning. Excessive flood waters from the current system continue to threaten the community and pose a significant risk of economic damages. Debris flowing from the outfall creates a tenuous situation with a history of damage and destruction to the bridge on Lowell Point Road, as well as flooding of the shellfish hatchery, Alaska SeaLife Center and local sewage treatment facility.
The report is available for the next 30 days until Oct. 21. It may be viewed on the Alaska District’s website at: http://www.poa.usace.army.mil/Library/Reports-and-Studies/. On that webpage, look under “Documents Available for Public Review” and expand the Civil Works link.
Comments may be submitted to the address below or via email to: Brent.S.Howard@usace.army.mil
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Alaska District
ATTN: CEPOA-PM-C-PL
Post Office Box 6898, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska 99506-0898
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Release no. 20-039