The City of Paris, in collaboration with TLM Associates is moving forward with the Brooks Street Drainage Improvement Project, a major infrastructure upgrade aimed at addressing both flooding issues and water quality concerns in the Brooks Street neighborhood. Here’s a detailed look at what the project involves, what to expect during construction, and how we’re working to minimize disruptions.
🌧️ Addressing Flooding and Water Quality
This project is about more than just moving water—it’s about improving its quality as well. Funded through a grant that requires water quality improvements, the project is designed to reduce erosion, runoff contamination, and improve overall stream conditions in the neighborhood. Over the years, what was once a small stream has evolved into a problematic drainage channel due to urban development and changing weather patterns. The current infrastructure, built decades ago, is no longer sufficient to handle today’s rain events, which are heavier and more intense than in the past.
🛠️ Project Design and Scope
Initial plans to armor the existing ditch with riprap were ruled out due to environmental regulations: wildlife in the ditch reclassified it as a stream, requiring a more sensitive engineering approach. The new design focuses on:
- Diverting excess flow away from the stream to reduce erosion.
- Maintaining a base flow in the stream for ecological health.
- Installing a new elliptical pipe system under Brooks Street to carry overflow water during storms.
- Improving drainage without pushing the problem downstream.
Due to underground utility conflicts—including gas, water, and sewer lines—the new pipe system will be slightly smaller than the existing outflows, but still capable of reducing overall strain on the drainage system.
🚧 What to Expect During Construction
Construction will be disruptive at times, with lane closures and delays expected as crews work on underground trenching and pipe installation. Here’s what residents should be prepared for:
- Temporary traffic delays, including 20–30 minute holds while equipment is moved.
- Possible temporary water service interruptions (2–3 hours) during water line relocations.
- Construction will take place over several months, including pre-work by the City’s Gas Department.
- A temporary gravel road is being constructed from Lark Street to Mockingbird Lane to provide an alternate access route to help ease traffic congestion during the project.
- Once the work is complete, the entire street will be repaved, but initial backfill will remain gravel to allow for settling.
🌟 Long-Term Vision
While the current work won’t solve every drainage problem in the neighborhood, it’s an essential first phase. The current drainage system in this area has been a problem for more than a decade, and this project is a significant step forward in long-term flood prevention and infrastructure resilience.
Looking ahead, the City is committed to addressing similar drainage concerns across Paris. Our Stormwater Management Director, Caleb Murnane, is currently conducting a city-wide drainage study to identify and address other problematic areas—with a focus on making improvements without worsening conditions elsewhere. This data-driven approach ensures future drainage projects are both effective and sustainable.
🔔 Stay Informed
We’re committed to keeping residents in the loop throughout the project. Updates will be posted regularly on our website, including:
- Construction timelines
- Expected road closures
- Service interruption notices