by Lisa Schauer
For the first time since the completion of the U.S. 522 bypass, a preliminary planning study of Warm Springs Run has been conducted, paid for by the USDA.
The purpose of the study is to analyze the run’s flood risks, according to project leader Rebecca MacLeod with Warm Springs Watershed Association.
MacLeod said the planning study includes suggested alternatives for the community to reduce flood risk and flood insurance premiums.
The town needs to pick an alternative, MacLeod advised Council in a public meeting held at Bath Town Hall on Tuesday, June 2.
The first alternative would be to do nothing, she said.
Finding a stormwater storage area upstream is the second choice.
Improving green infrastructure is the third alternative, and 300 acres needs protection from trees being cut down.
“We love green infrastructure. Trouble is, it works for smaller, more frequent storms. We’re seeing a change in storms,” said MacLeod.
The fourth choice involves building a channel under town. That was looked at in 1992, and it was very expensive, MacLeod said in the public meeting.
Lastly, a short box culvert from Congress Street through town could be constructed.
A cost-benefit analysis needs to be done on the alternatives MacLeod suggested to Council.
She said there are lots of opportunities for Morgan County to reduce flood risk, such as planting trees along the west side of Washington Street.
Councilwoman Susan Webster said the next steps should be to invite the consulting engineers to a meeting with Bath town council and Morgan County Commission for more information on the plan, which should be completed by the end of the year.
Changes to
Bath Tree Board
In related business, Bath Tree Board Chair Kate Lehman confirmed she has resigned.
Council voted to approve Alison Howard as a new member of the Tree Board.
