Jim Neubauer, City Administrator | City of Mandan website
Jim Neubauer, City Administrator | City of Mandan website
Mandan City Commissioners have approved a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant for the first phase of the Lower Heart Flood Risk Reduction project. This phase includes funding for final engineering and design plans, benefit cost analysis, and environmental compliance. The construction phase will follow once this is completed and receives FEMA approval.
A 2012 FEMA study indicated that the Heart River levee system could not withstand a 100-year runoff event. A subsequent study in 2018 by the Lower Heart Water Resource District (LHWRD) reduced but did not eliminate necessary improvements. The levee system extends from the second railroad bridge west of Mandan to where the Heart River meets the Missouri River.
The project involves replacing a concrete floodwall, raising parts of the levee, extending a stability berm, addressing seepage issues, and improving interior drainage. The area benefiting from these improvements includes critical infrastructure such as police and fire stations, city administration buildings, and more.
The total project cost is estimated at $24.5 million, with $13.8 million expected from federal funds. North Dakota will contribute $5.1 million, while local sources will provide $5.5 million.
In 2022, Mandan approved a special assessment district for this project affecting both commercial and residential properties in two tiers based on potential flood impact. Initial estimates have decreased due to additional grants obtained by the city and LHWRD.
The bid package is anticipated to be released in fall 2025 or spring 2026, with construction planned for 2026-2027 and completion in 2028. Property owners may see assessments on tax statements by late 2028.
The LHWRD manages over 12,000 acres with funding through Morton County allocations.
For more information on this project, visit mortonnd.org/lowerheartwaterdistrict.
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