Flood mitigation projects included in city’s infrastructure plan

The City of Kelowna will be undertaking a lot of infrastructure projects this year, including two major ones aimed at reducing flood risks.

The city stated a total of $95-million will be invested in infrastructure projects in 2024, with $7-million of that going towards projects focused on protecting and safeguarding existing infrastructure and restoring natural habitat.

Among the sustainability projects planned is the continuation of the Mill Creek Flood Protection project.

This work intends to reduce the flooding potential from Kelowna Airport to Okanagan Lake, improve creek capacity through riverbank rehabilitation, improve riparian and fish passage, reduce debris accumulation, add temporary in-stream storage, and divert excess water to Mission Creek during spring flooding events.

The work will also see the Rail Trail re-established, tree planting, and the removal of two aging pedestrian bridges that have been deemed safety hazards.

The project is partially funded through a $22-million grant from the Government of Canada’s Disaster Mitigation and Adaption Fund.

Additionally, the city plans to start work on the South Ridge Storm Pond upgrade this year.

The project will involve installing a new warning system to alert crews if the pond is at risk of reaching full capacity, and putting in a new pipe system to divert excess water and prevent flooding events.

“These projects help build sustainability by addressing issues before they escalate,” Rod MacLean, Kelowna’s utility planning manager, said.

“This pro-active approach, helps prevent costly repairs and environmental damage, safeguarding Kelowna’s natural environment.”