Corps will host virtual public meeting for Lowell Creek study

Representatives for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Alaska District will host a virtual public meeting Tuesday, Oct. 20 at noon for anyone interested in learning about the draft report for the Lowell Creek Flood Diversion Project. The public will have an opportunity to ask questions and submit comments.

Within the Corps’ authorities, the Alaska District is assisting the City of Seward to identify a project that provides an alternative method of flood diversion in Lowell Canyon. Public safety is a top priority and the Corps is committed to addressing risks associated with aging infrastructure.

The draft feasibility report provides a tentatively selected plan that delivers a long-term engineering solution to reduce potential risks to the community. It proposes the construction of a new 18-foot diameter tunnel and diversion dam upstream of the existing project. The new tunnel would have a capacity of 8,400 cubic feet per second in comparison to the existing tunnel that can handle a maximum flow of 2,800 cfs. Surface flow from Lowell Creek would be diverted through the new tunnel. 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 draft report is available for public review and comment 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.

For more information and instructions on how to join the virtual public meeting, please see the attached second page of this document.

# # #