Mayor Joe Hogsett, Indy DPW, the City-County Council and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers celebrated the accreditation of the Indianapolis North Levee System.

The construction and accreditation allows for new Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), that went into effect on March 20, which reflect the reduced flooding risk resulting from levee construction, and allowing for development/redevelopment on properties previously listed in the floodplain.

"From the start, it's been generations of community members, representatives, and City leadership who have worked to bring this project and today's FEMA accreditation to the finish line," said Mayor Joe Hogsett. "At nearly four miles, the levee has increased flood protection for about 5,500 people, over 2,000 structures, and about $1 billion in property value. It's a major achievement, and FEMA's recognition confirms that."

The origins of the project date back to 1991, when city officials engaged the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The floodwall, which stretches over 3.85 miles, was completed in phases between 2004 and 2019.

• Indy North Levee system map
• Indy North Levee system floodplain mapping

Overall, this levee protects 2,134 buildings (including a fire station and three schools), 5,494 people and $1 billion in property value, according to the 2023 USACE National Structure Inventory.

Members of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers traveled from Louisville to attend the event.

"This is a momentous occasion, not just for the city, but for the Corps of Engineers because we're delivering a project," said USACE Lt. Col. Guillermo Guandique. "It's a quality project - one that we put our name on."

"This accreditation has been a long time coming, and it is vital to the neighborhoods and businesses in the area," said Councilor John Barth, District 7. "It is the result of extensive collaboration and partnerships across multiple levels of government, with our valued community partners, and elected officials. It stands as a testament to the perseverance of everyone involved who has united with a shared purpose: to guarantee the well-being and safety of our community for future generations."

"We're so grateful about what this project will mean for our neighborhood, what it will bring to positively change our lives," said Libby Hiple, president of the Warfleigh Neighborhood Association.

Many former Indy DPW employees who contributed to the project were in attendance.

"Without folks like you and surely countless others who couldn't be here - dedicated public servants who come to work each day and do their absolute best to get difficult projects over the finish line - none of us may be here today," said Indy DPW Director Brandon Herget. "We all thank you for your service to the City of Indianapolis."

Indy DPW would like to remind property owners of resident responsibilities regarding stormwater. As a property owner, you are responsible for drainage issues on your property. You can help by making sure drainage ditches, driveway pipes, and easements are in working order and clear of anything that would obstruct water flow.