On heels of another historic rain, Huntingburg to host stormwater meeting

With Huntingburg having experienced a couple 1,000-year rain events over the past few years, the upcoming public meeting regarding storm sewer improvements is fitting.

Over the weekend, the city’s storm drainage system was inundated with nearly 9.5 inches of rain in a 24-hour period. The resulting flash flooding stranded some motorists in high water forcing rescues from the city’s fire and police departments.

The city has been developing a stormwater program with a goal to reduce flooding, improve infrastructure, create better recreational opportunities, and improve water quality.

Input is needed to help identify areas where storm water drainage creates property damage, transportation problems, erosion issues, and pollutant runoff. Information gathered at the meeting will be utilized to develop a study that will assess stormwater issues and establish a strategy to address ongoing stormwater needs.

The City of Huntingburg is hosting a public input meeting on stormwater drainage issues. The meeting will take place on Tuesday, September 18, 2018, at 5:30 p.m. at Huntingburg City Hall, located at 508 E. 4th Street.

Maps will be available for citizens to locate and discuss problem areas. Anyone with historical knowledge of the storm sewer system, or those currently experiencing stormwater drainage issues is encouraged to attend.

The meeting will be facilitated by Commonwealth Engineers, Inc.

Rain gauges were overflowing around the county this weekend. Ferdinand gauges indicate the town had about 9.66 inches of rain and Celestine had about 6.76 inches. Jasper had about 5.35 inches.