STURGIS, S.D. – The City of Sturgis is taking steps to correct FEMA compliance issues involving two Bear Butte Creek crossings.
The Sturgis City Council on Monday approved corrective action alternatives for the Blanche Street and Sly Street crossings after officials determined culverts installed decades ago were put in place without required floodplain permits and hydraulic studies.
Public Works Director Rick Bush says federal regulations require any structure placed in a floodway to demonstrate it will not increase flood risks to nearby properties.
City engineers have identified a relatively simple fix for the Sly Street crossing. The Blanche Street crossing, however, is more complicated because of nearby city-owned structures.
Bush recommended lowering a section of Blanche Street by less than a foot to create a controlled overflow area during major flood events. The project would involve asphalt removal, bike path reconstruction, and excavation work.
The estimated cost of the Blanche Street improvements is between $125,000 and $150,000. City officials say the project will return to the council for final approval after FEMA completes its review, while work at the Sly Street crossing could be handled by city crews to reduce costs.
