When this project is completed, it will have a transformational effect on our town.
I testified on behalf of the City of Flagstaff regarding the Rio de Flag Flood Control Project after the testimony of Army Corps District Commander Colonel Andy Baker. The city, Colonel Baker and his staff, and BNSF Railway work closely together on this project that has been 23 years in development. The delays are mainly because of the complexity of design, complexity of agreements between partner agencies and organizations, and funding for the project. Maps and project descriptions can be found on the city’s website. Rio de Flag Flood Control Project | City of Flagstaff Official Website (az.gov)
Three major project components have been constructed to date, including a large detention basin on the Clay Wash reach, a bridge structure in the upper reach, and a large culvert under Butler Avenue. The city is approaching final plans and specs that will allow the project to be advertised for bid. Property is being acquired to construct the project, including property owned by BNSF Railway. City staff is engaged in complicated negotiations with the railroad on several Construction Maintenance Agreements for project approval and property rights. The goal is to have this project out to bid in early 2025 and begin construction by spring 2025.
The city received the final $52 million of federal funding for construction in FY 2020. Thus far, $84 million in federal funds have been committed to this project and the city has contributed $22 million as part of its cost share. Both of Arizona’s Senators have been instrumental in not only getting this project funded, but in ensuring it continues to move forward through the Army Corps.
When this project is completed, it will have a transformational effect on our town. First, it will remove more than half of our residents and over 1,500 structures from the flood plain including Northern Arizona University and City Hall. Second, it will allow people, for the first time in many of their lifetimes, to make improvements to their homes and businesses in the Southside neighborhood that they haven’t been able to make in decades because they lie in the flood plain. Third, it will eliminate costly flood insurance requirements for many residents and, finally, it will allow for significant economic development. In short, this project will transform our city and the lives of many, many residents. FBN
By Becky Daggett, FBN
Becky Daggett is the mayor of Flagstaff.