Stormwater and Stream Enhancement Plan for Winkler, Hodges, and Boone Creeks
Stormwater and Stream Enhancement Plan for Winkler, Hodges, and Boone Creeks PROJECT PURPOSE The purpose of the project is to improve the hydrologic conditions in and around the area of the Boone Mall by reducing sediment and pollutant loading, mitigate flooding/reduce flooding frequency, and improving stormwater management. The project scope includes approximately ±2600 linear feet along Winkler Creek, ±1500 linear feet along Hodges Creek, and ±1200 linear feet along Boone (Kraut) Creek (see Town of Boone Conceptual Plan map). PROJECT NEED The Boone Mall and the surrounding urban area experience severe flooding during heavy precipitation events due to the impact of increased residential and commercial development, along with antiquated and failing stormwater management systems. All three streams (Winkler, Hodges, and Boone) are currently in a degrading state; with failing stream banks and increased collection of sediment and stormwater contaminants. Sediment accumulation (aggradation) raises the stream bed, resultaing in an increase in flooding and a decrease in biological habitats. In addition, stormwater runoff contains pollutants which are detrimental to the environment. The streambanks have poor habitat diversity, extensive invasive plants, and are severely eroded. The floodplain is largely non-existent, forcing the streams out of their banks, and onto impervious surfaces (i.e., parking lots) with largely outdated drainage mechanisms. Surrounding commercial and residential owners continually deal with clean-up and repairs from flood waters, an expensive and ongoing maintenance. There are innovative approaches and technologies which can be applied to the area which will greatly improve function, appearance, cost, and environmental health of the surrounding landscape. Innovative, green stormwater infrastructure should be implemented in these areas to provide a mechanism for filtration and dissipation of stormwaters.
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