Photo By Jeremy Todd | Civil Engineer Alex Baldowski, points out the levee barrier system to Colonel Frank...... read more read more
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Most of downtown DC is at risk of flooding. It safeguards about 40 city blocks of downtown D.C., including the Federal Triangle area and parts of the National Mall. The levee is designed to protect against a 100-year flood event, which is a flood that has a 1% chance of occurring in any given year. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built a levee (raised mounds that stop flood waters) around the National Mall in 1939. They left one gap at 17th Street for transportation. While this flood protection system has been in place for decades, it continues to be actively maintained and tested.
On Wednesday, September 25, 2024, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Civil Works staff and the command team observed the installation of the 17th Street Levee system. Also in attendance were staff from the Department of Energy. During this annual exercise, they looked on as National Park Service employees installed the panels. The installation took less than two hours to complete. It was considered a positive success as the crowds that gathered applauded when its final panel was installed. This modern installation process is more than a stone's throw from the levee's humble beginnings.
From 1939 to 2014, that gap was filled with sandbags. It was constructed as part of a larger flood risk management project initiated after major flooding in 2006. In 2014, the USACE, National Park Service (NPS), and DC Government installed a modern post and panel levee closure. Once a year, the National Park Service tests this system that can close that gap within hours. Despite its regular testing and improvements, the true test of the 17th Street Levee Closure system lies ahead.
The 17th Street Levee Closure system hasn’t been used in a flood yet, but rising sea levels due to climate change make a flood event more likely each year. Flood risk management measures often have wider-reaching effects beyond their immediate vicinity. This levee is part of a larger flood risk management system for D.C., which collectively reduces the risk to a much broader area, including portions of Southwest D.C. The success of this flood protection system relies heavily on a crucial partnership between two federal agencies.
The partnership between the National Park Service (NPS) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) significantly benefits the National Mall in Washington, D.C. This collaboration combines the expertise of both agencies to enhance flood protection, preservation, and management of this historic area.
While USACE provides engineering expertise for flood risk management structures, NPS manages the day-to-day operations of these structures, ensuring they're ready when needed. NPS brings extensive experience in managing natural and cultural resources, and USACE contributes technical knowledge on water resource management. In case of floods or other emergencies, the partnership allows for a more coordinated and efficient response. USACE can quickly mobilize resources, while NPS can manage on-site operations.
The synergy between these agencies goes far beyond flood prevention, embracing a comprehensive approach to preserving the area's heritage and functionality. This partnership leverages the strengths of both agencies to provide comprehensive care and protection for the National Mall, ensuring its preservation for future generations while maintaining its functionality and historic beauty.
| Date Taken: | 09.26.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 10.01.2024 07:53 |
| Story ID: | 481894 |
| Location: | DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, US |
| Web Views: | 2 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, "USACE and NPS: A Powerful Partnership Preserving DC's National Mall", by Jeremy Todd, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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