Failed bridge worsened flooding

Now that the local-option sales tax (referendum) rush is over, it's time to take a more realistic look at flood protection for Cedar Rapids and adjust the plan. A good place to start is the U.S. Geologic Survey river data, which shows that the 2008 flood crest was unnaturally high and should never be repeated.

The 2008 flood was truly a 500-year flood, greater than any on record. However, after reviewing USGS data, I determined it was exacerbated when the river destroyed the old railroad bridge just south of downtown. The bridge and railroad cars on it effectively dammed up the channel, and the river had to rise even higher to go over and around the obstruction.

Comparing river measurements from upstream and down to historic flood data, I estimated the bridge collapse added approximately 6 feet to the flood level in the city. Thus, the initial 2008 crest prediction of 25 feet is what we need to protect against for a 500-year flood, not an unrealistic level of 31 feet.

The Corps of Engineers probably came to this conclusion, which is why their solution is closer to what is really needed.

We need to take a second look, remove the gold plating, and develop a plan and funding solution that is more palatable to the residents of this city.

Kevin Keene

Cedar Rapids