Starting in 2004, the City, Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and Yakima County have entered into agreements for improvements to the environment and reduction in flood risks on the Naches River from the 16th Avenue interchange at US 12 to the water treatment plant, including the Nelson Dam project. Part of the original plan that was developed from the Partnership Group was to make improvements to the floodplain at Cowiche Creek. With the 2018 Upper Yakima River Comprehensive Flood Hazard Management Plan, adopted by the City with Resolution R-2018-119, several projects were anticipated along Cowiche Creek to reduce flood risk.
This Interlocal Agreement sets out a process where the City, WSDOT and the County will work together to complete those projects to reduce flood risk and make environmental improvements. It is anticipated funding for these projects will be grants from Floodplains by Design, the Yakima Basin Integrated Plan and Recreation and Conservation Office. These projects include property acquisition, levee design and construction, floodplain restoration and development of some public spaces. The Interlocal Agreement is attached for City Council review. |