The city is closer than it’s ever been to solving flooding issues in Stafford Square. But hopes hinge on a $20 million federal grant application and some help from the city budget or sewer ratepayers.

 

On July 30, Fall River’s water and sewer systems director, Paul Ferland, provided an update on the designing and funding of a drainage overhaul at the intersection of Pleasant, County and Quarry streets to the City Council’s public safety subcommittee.

 

The crossroads is the low point of a 373-acre, heavily paved watershed. The area contains few green spaces that would let rainwater soak into the ground. Instead, it collects in storm drains that were built over 100 years ago and are too narrow.

 

So, water backs up, flooding Stafford Square as stormwater makes its way into the Quequechan River. It’s been happening for decades, Ferland said.

 

“Does it occur more often, potentially, because of the intensity of the storms that we get nowadays?” Ferland continued. “That could be said”

 

Ferland said construction on the drainage overhaul would take about three years once all the pieces are in place.

 

The Flint Village business district is set to receive streetscape upgrades thanks to state and federal grants.

 

See more at heraldnews.com.