Imhoff Creek Stabilization Project begins

To help protect property and ensure the safety of residents, a project to stabilize the stream bank of an area of Imhoff Creek - located generally south of West Imhoff Road and east of State Highway 9 - is underway. This long anticipated project is part of the community's Stormwater Master Plan (SWMP), funded in part by federal dollars, and carried out in consultation with area residents.

"As Imhoff Creek adjusted to changing upstream conditions, down cutting and widening resulted in extreme bank and bed erosion, which are characteristic in this portion of Imhoff Creek," said Scott Sturtz, Director of Public Works. "Continued development along the length of the stream has exacerbated runoff problems leading to trees and fences falling into the creek, loss of property and threats to infrastructure - including the Imhoff Road Bridge, which failed in 2021 and was subsequently repaired."

The project, in full, costs approximately $5.5 million, with $2.9 million coming from a Hazard Mitigation Grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The project, being carried out by a contractor Cimarron Construction, began after all applicable studies and federal requirements had been met and approved. Construction of the engineered solution includes the removal of some vegetation in order to install the stabilization measures, which may be apparent from on-street observation but should not impact any public areas or services. Trees will be mulched and used in the same bank as part of the stabilization process. This project will be using a more nature-based approach, explained Public Works staff, which will allow for the engineered solution to stabilize the stream banks while also allowing the stream channel to regrow trees and vegetation over time. This will allow the area to retain its natural appearance and ecological function.

The project is expected to be completed in March 2027.

###