Major changes involving the construction of the White River floodwall will soon take place along 67th Street and other areas in Broad Ripple.

The White River Indianapolis North Flood Damage Reduction Project is a cost-shared development between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USAC) and the Indianapolis Department of Public Works. The project's general description is outlined as "construction of approximately three and a half miles of floodwall and earthen levee along the east bank of the White River, being generated in three sections: Broad Ripple, Warfleigh and South Warfleigh."

"The overall purpose of the project is to either lower or eliminate flood insurance for the area residents," said Carol J. Labashosky, Public Affairs Specialist for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

When complete, the project is intended to provide approximately 2,400 properties with a 100-year level of protection. Upon acceptance of the floodwall from the Federal Emergency Management Act (FEMA), Broad Ripple's current flood restrictions may be reduced or removed for the neighborhoods, making development opportunities in the area less of a headache.

"There is indeed a chance for increased economic development in all the areas the floodwall will be protecting," said Michael Q. Holley, USAC Project Manager. "District development restrictions may be reduced, and everyone will benefit from the reduction or elimination of flood insurance."

Economically, Broad Ripple is viewed as one of the most popular areas for possible development. However, tough zoning restrictions due to the ever-changing elevation of the White River has made building in its boundaries a tough hurdle to jump.

The City of Indianapolis made the request to USAC to investigate the benefits of the floodwall. When it was determined that it would indeed be a benefit, the go-ahead was given to begin the project.

The main issue of concern for Broad Ripple, however, seems to be the overall need for a wall that will certainly create a hassle for numerous residents without a true promise of freedom from flood insurance.

Sharon Freeland, Executive Director of the Broad Ripple Village Association, said that most residents are not convinced of the need yet, let alone the idea of a four foot wall running through their neighborhood.

"There is going to be a large deal of parking restrictions both during and after the construction, and the overall look of the wall is also a big discussion amongst residents."

The "look" of the wall is something that the city and USAC workers seem to be putting a large effort into. While the idea of a large concrete wall with closing floodgates may seem sore on the eyes initially, attempts are being made to incorporate the Broad Ripple atmosphere into the façade.

The wall itself will range from two to five feet in height, with a stucco-textured surface that hopes to compliment the surrounding buildings - including the Indianapolis Art Center and nearby condominiums. Labashosky also said that sections of the wall along 67th Street will include recesses to display works of art and sculpture that can periodically be changed. The overall cost of the levee is estimated at $5.5 million.

Continue reading more about the levee and what areas will be the most affected during construction in the next edition of the Gazette.