The City of Slidell held a groundbreaking ceremony today for a $2.37 million flood mitigation project that will create a more resilient Louisiana, using the Louisiana Watershed Initiative’s approach to reducing flood risk and respecting the natural functions of the state’s watersheds.

The Lee Street Drainage Pump Station Hardening project will construct mechanical bar screens in front of the Lee Street Drain Pump Station intake basin to capture debris and prevent clogs due to heavy rain in an effort to reduce flooding.

“We are thrilled to begin the construction of the Lee Street Drainage Pump Station Hardening project,” said Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer. “Once complete, the new screens will automatically clear debris during storms and heavy rainfall, improving the drainage systems and minimizing flooding in the area. This project will help protect our community from flood hazards and supports our goal of fostering long-term flood resilience.”

The Louisiana Office of Community Development-Disaster Recovery funded the project through the state’s $1.2 billion CDBG-MIT grant, which is part of LWI’s Round 1 funding program for local and regional projects. LOCD-DR has approved 28 Round 1 projects, designed for implementation-ready, low-risk flood mitigation efforts with no potential negative impacts on surrounding areas.

“This Louisiana Watershed Initiative project will greatly benefit the local community as we continue working toward long-term resilience in our state,” said LOCD-DR Executive Director Gina Campo. “Not only will it improve overall drainage, it will mitigate flood risks for neighboring properties, as well as reduce the hazards of traveling on flooded roadways. LWI is dedicated to protecting our state, regions and local areas from these dangers.”

The Lee Street Drainage Pump Station Hardening project will take place in Region 7, one of LWI’s nine watershed regions throughout the state.