Saturday
June 29, 2024 
Upper Makefield officials are looking into ways to better control stormwater runoff in the township, and thereby mitigate some impacts of flooding.
At a recent public meeting, the elected five-person board of supervisors heard from township engineer Amanda Fuller about potential projects that could help mitigation efforts.
The board ultimately authorized Fuller, of Gilmore & Associates, to prepare a concept plan for improving a basin at the Washington Meadows development, and instituting upgrades to slow the rate of runoff coming from the Ascension Church property.
The board also green-lighted Fuller to prepare a hydraulic analysis of the Belamour and Valley View subdivisions’ basins. Such an analysis is essentially a study of a water system network that evaluates flows and performance under different conditions, including peak flow rates.
Fuller had recommended taking such steps following a study that looked at the Houghs Creek watershed to identify key properties whose runoff most affects that watershed. A stormwater analysis was then performed on the properties.
Flooding has been a significant issue in Upper Makefield. The Houghs and Jericho creeks have repeatedly flooded, eroding soil on their banks. There’s been major flooding along the Delaware River and Delaware Canal. As many as 200 properties in Upper Makefiled are at higher risk for flooding, according to township data.
Flooding has been painfully front of mind for many locals since the tragedy that occurred on July 15, 2023. A flash flood from Houghs Creek claimed the lives of seven people.
Fuller and supervisors sought to set residents’ expectations: The potential improvements Fuller is looking into aren’t going to magically solve Upper Makefield’s flooding problems. However, they can be part of a broader, long-term effort to lessen stormwater impacts.
“We have to start somewhere,” said Supervisor Braun Taylor.
Fuller noted that having plans prepared for possible key projects also could prove helpful in being able to quickly and effectively apply for grants that may become available. The grants could help fund such projects.
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