24-04-2025
Westport looking to improve stormwater management, reduce flash flooding
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A groundbreaking for the Westport Stormwater Improvements Project is happening Thursday morning.
If you've ever been to Westport during a heavy rain, you'll know all about the flash flooding that happens around Westport and Mill Street.
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The sewer system, which dates back to the 1800s, is undersized and overcapacity. Westport is one of Kansas City's oldest neighborhoods, where, over the decades, roads and buildings have been built over a natural drainage path.
The original system worked in the 1800s, but experts from KC Water said the flooding happens because the pipes are too small to carry the storm water, so the water builds up in parking lots and sometimes floods buildings, filling cars along the way.
The Westport Stormwater Improvements Project is described as a first-of-its-kind project. It will focus on Mill Street up to where it intersects with Southwest Trafficway and also along Westport Road, 40th Street and Waddell Avenue.
The project includes two underground stormwater storage facilities capable of holding 3.5 million gallons of water.
Mill Street will also be redesigned and reconstructed to improve stormwater management.
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Added enhancements will include new sidewalks and crosswalks, among other things. The project also includes a pedestrian walkway from 43rd to Mill Street and added space for park upgrades.
The groundbreaking is set for Thursday at 10:30 a.m. at the corner of 43rd and Broadway. To keep up on the project, check out the project's website, .
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