Comments sought on Arcadia flood work

Individuals have until Feb. 19 to request a public hearing or comment on an environmental assessment of the most recent changes in the flood control project for Arcadia.

The assessment concludes that there are few effects on the environment between the original and new configuration of primarily Turton Creek. The assessment can be found at https://www.mvp.usace.army.mil/Home/PN/Article/3645844/continuing-author....

“While the proposed modifications and additions would result …  in some changes in the location, timing, and magnitude of effects on some resources, there would not be an appreciable change in the overall types and scope of impacts from” the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ original environmental assessment, according to the latest report.

 The environmental review reflects the addition of an Oak Street bridge, a widening as well as a rerouting of Turton Creek and the use of a “seepage trench drain” as opposed to wells along the levee to be constructed along the creek.

City officials have said the first phase of the project and a slice of the second phase could provide enough protection without Arcadia having to commit to the entire project, which is now estimated to cost over $58 million. Work on the first phase of the project could begin this year and the city has begun work on purchasing four homes and two commercial buildings to make way for the new Turton Creek flood works.

The latest assessment notes the project will store some dredged material on Avalon Hills property, a parcel being eyed for eventual residential and commercial development north of Arcadia. The corps anticipates purchasing already-minded sand from CSI, a company that owes the city back taxes and may be in foreclosure with the county for unpaid property taxes. 

Those wishing to have a public hearing on the assessment may send their reasoning to District Engineer, St. Paul District, Corps of Engineers, ATTN: Project Management, 332 Minnesota St., Suite E1500, St. Paul, MN 55101.