PHOENIX (April 25, 2018) – Good news for some residents that will benefit from a Flood Control District (FCD or District) of Maricopa County program that develops solutions to local flooding hazards. Today, through the Small Project Assistance Program (SPAP), the District Board of Directors approved three flood control projects within the City of Phoenix. Drainage improvements will take place in District 3 around: 1) 7516 North Black Canyon Highway, 2) Grovers Avenue at 53rd and 55th Place and 3) Monterosa and 22nd Streets. The projects are projected to be completed by June 30, 2019.
“The Small Project Assistance Program gives us the opportunity to help fund and, effectively and efficiently, resolve neighborhood flooding problems,” said Supervisor Bill Gates, District 3. “These projects are examples of successful multi-agency partnerships that provide more peace of mind to our residents as well as save taxpayer dollars over their lifespan.”
Projects will include the construction of storm drain systems that connect new storm drain lines, manholes and catch basins to increase stormwater capacity. This will help reduce flood risk for 5 residential properties and help prevent roadway or access closures in the area during storms.
“The safety and well-being of our residents is always our top priority,” said Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton. “Floods can be dangerous, destructive and expensive. The Flood Control District’s Small Project Assistance Project initiative helps us solve localized flooding and better protect our residents from storm and property damage.”
Under SPAP, the District provides the lead municipality with 75 percent of the construction costs, up to $250,000. The municipality is responsible for the remaining funding, as well as, all aspects of design, right-of-way acquisition, utilities relocation, construction management and other logistical work including post-construction maintenance. The District is able to help municipalities with projects that address small-scale flooding that directly affect residential or commercial properties in Maricopa County and can be fixed by a simple solution with minimal administrative delay.
“We continue to work in a collaborative manner with our partners at the Flood Control District to address local drainage issues across the city,” said Vice Mayor Thelda Williams, Chair of the Phoenix City Council’s Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee.
Since the Small Project Assistance Program was launched in 2009, the District has approved $11.6 million of funding for 54 projects that were submitted and qualified for program funding. Cities that have benefited from the program include Avondale, Glendale, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Surprise, Wickenburg, Mesa, Gilbert and Guadalupe.
“One of the goals for the Flood Control District is to reduce the risk of loss of life or property due to stormwater flooding,” explained Michael Fulton, FCD Director. “Through the Small Project Assistance Program, we work with local government partners to develop solutions to local flooding hazards that impact Maricopa County citizens.”