A consultant was hired to re-visit the Floodway's design and evaluate its performance. Engineering Northwest Ltd. (ENL) analysed data and ran computer models to aid in their evaluation. They tried to correlate field observations during rainfall events, such as the July 1997 storm, with the model results.
Lakehead Conservation commissioned the study to ensure that the Floodway will be able to continue to protect the Intercity area.
"Overall, the consultant's findings show that the Floodway would meet its design objectives," stated Rick Potter, Lakehead Conservation Chairman. "We were pleased to hear that the Diversion Structure near Ford Street was in good shape and would withstand the forces of ice, flowing water and debris.
"There are some items, however, that will need to be addressed, likely in our 1999 budget," noted Mr. Potter.
A few sections of the Floodway's banks have settled and are a little lower than they should be if they are to safely pass a combination of worst-case scenarios. In addition, the sediment traps have built up in portions of the Floodway channel and will require maintenance dredging. The consultant is examining ways to minimize the debris that builds up near the Diversion Structure.
