Cleveland, TN Flood Risk Management Project Makes Significant Progress

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Nashville District is pleased to announce significant progress on the flood risk management project for the city of Cleveland, Tennessee. This collaborative effort aims to reduce flooding risks in the South Mouse and Fillauer Branch watersheds.  

The project, a result of a 2017 feasibility study, combines structural and non-structural measures. Structural measures include detention structures and channel modifications, while non-structural measures encompass property buyouts and elevations.

“The collaboration between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and our city has laid the foundation for a safer and more resilient community,” said Cleveland City Engineer Brian Beck. “These flood mitigation efforts address long-standing vulnerabilities, protect our residents, and pave the way for future growth. We look forward to the continued progress as we work together to safeguard our neighborhoods from the challenges of severe weather.”

Construction Underway on Key Channel Modifications

In April 2024, a contract was awarded to Wilamut Construction Company, LLC for the Ocoee Channel Modification and Clearwater Channel Modification. These modifications involve channel excavation, grading, and installation of drainage structures to increase water flow capacity and reduce flood risks. Completion is expected by April 2025.

Project Details:

• Ocoee Channel Modification: This involves 800 linear feet of modifications along Fillauer Branch.
• Clearwater Channel Modification: This project includes 570 linear feet of modification to improve water conveyance.

These modifications address the city’s history of flash flooding, particularly during severe weather events.

Non-Structural Measures Address Vulnerable Properties

The project also incorporates non-structural measures, including elevating at-risk structures and property buyouts. The city has completed all necessary buyouts and is working on elevating remaining eligible structures.

Project to Continue with Detention Structures and Additional Modifications

The 12th Street Detention Structure is nearing completion, while designs for the Blount Avenue channel modification and Williams Street detention structure are being finalized. Contract awards are anticipated in summer 2025.

“This project represents a major step forward in our commitment to protecting the city of Cleveland from flooding,” said Ramune Matuliauskaite, USACE Nashville District project manager. “By collaborating closely with the city, we are not only addressing immediate flood risks but also enhancing the quality of life for residents.”

Federal Funding Supports Infrastructure Resilience

Funding for these initiatives comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, highlighting the federal commitment to improving infrastructure resilience nationwide.

Long-Term Flood Risk Reduction Plan

This project is part of the comprehensive Mouse Creek Flood Risk Management Plan, designed to eliminate over 25% of expected annual flood damages in the region. The plan offers both structural and non-structural measures to reduce flood risks for residents and businesses.

For project updates and information, visit the USACE Nashville District website: https://www.lrd.usace.army.mil/About/Districts/Nashville-District/ or their social media pages.