Mayor Tom Henry with Public Works Director Bob Kennedy with assistance of Mike Kiester in Engineering Services and two of the contractors for the Westbrook rain garden project cut the ribbon
Mayor Tom Henry cut the ribbon Oct. 31 to officially dedicate the Westbrook Rain Garden. Fort Wayne's largest rain garden will compliment a major flood protection project.
“I believe it helps us greatly in solving the longtime problem of flooding in the Eastbrook/Westbrook neighborhood, while at the same time bringing a unique beauty to the area. In essence, hope is planted,” said Mayor Tom Henry.
“I was on the City Council some 25 years ago when I came out to help sandbag in the area. I know residents dealt with the flash floods along the Spy Run Creek many times. Once there were three floods in one year,” added Henry.
A view from the former Westbrook Avenue now a flood control project with the City's largest rain garden.
The Flood Control Plan for Westbrook materialized after numerous floods. Over the years several homeowners voluntarily approached the City asking to be bought out and last year the City was able to accomplish that. Using Stormwater Bond money the City purchased 11 homes last year.
“Through the years we've investigated many ways to protect the neighborhood from flooding. After looking at many options we determined that there was no structural alternative. So we started the process of removing the damaged homes and helping citizens relocate,” said Bob Kennedy, Director of Public Works. “I'm pleased the City and neighbors have found a way to work together on this project and that residents voluntarily sold their houses,” added Kennedy.
The flood control project expands the capacity for flood water storage at Spy Run Creek. It basically recreates a flood plain, significantly reducing the opportunity for property damage during high water in this area.
“We wanted to make the area aesthetically pleasing as well as using it for flood storage. So, our solution was to create a rain garden. As the project proceeded the City was able to incorporate suggestions from the neighborhood that have preserved some of the historical characteristics of the area,” said Kennedy.
The Rain Garden will collect surface water while the deep roots of the natural flowers and vegetation help more water soak into the ground. As flood waters recede the plants will serve as a sort of filtering system to improve water quality.
“Finally, a long awaited solution has arrived for flood protection to residents along Eastbrook and Westbrook Drive on the Spy Run Creek. What a beautiful solution it is'A Rain Garden that doubles as a lovely greenspace that everyone can enjoy in dry weather,” said Tom Didier, 3rd District Council Member.
More than 2500 plants and flowers were planted in the area. They will bloom at various times giving color through most seasons.
“We hope that citizens will take an opportunity to stroll through the Westbrook Rain Garden and enjoy something very unique in Fort Wayne,” said Mayor Henry.
Rain Gardens are a growing trend in urban areas as cities work to gain more greenspace, manage stormwater runoff and aid flood control. The City of Fort Wayne is planning nearly 20 additional rain gardens at various public locations throughout the City.
Mayor Henry is committed to completing several other flood control projects around the City in the next year.
To see video from today's ribbon cutting, check out the City's YouTube channel.