The Papio-Missouri River NRD (non-federal sponsor) is partnering with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Omaha District) on a study to evaluate solutions to reduce flood risks and improve public safety within the Papillion Creek basin in Douglas, Sarpy and Washington counties in Nebraska.
Serious flooding, including loss of life, occurred in the Papillion Creek Basin in 1964 and 1965. As a result of these floods, a 21-dam project was authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1968. Since then, the project has experienced considerable delays and size reduction because of significant changes in costs, regulations, and new legislation, as well as local opposition. As a result, only four of the authorized dams have been constructed by the Corps. Due to ongoing development in the basin, which has resulted in channel instability, and increases in surface runoff and water velocities, significant flood risk remains. There are approximately 4,700 structures in the 500-year floodplain with an approximate structure value of $1.9B.
Here’s a link to the final feasibility report for the Papillion Creek General Re-evaluation Study, as well as an addendum that outlines changes to the project costs and benefits.
If you have questions, please contact Amanda Grint with the Papio NRD at 402-444-6222.