Purposeful flood infrastructure and park design
Low-lying, landlocked areas make Edina’s Morningside neighborhood prone to flooding—a risk that could grow as climate change brings more intense storms to the region. The city partnered with Barr to help reduce flood exposure to residents while enhancing existing community amenities. We performed hydraulic modeling (XP-SWMM), water quality modeling (P8), and detailed cost-benefit analysis of a wide range of infrastructure options.
Central to the designs were projects at Weber Woods and the adjacent Weber Park. Barr engineers and landscape architects worked closely with the city so the new infrastructure would enhance visitor experiences while providing necessary flood storage.
Once obscured by dense weeds and a chain-link fence, Weber Pond—one of the newly expanded stormwater ponds—is now a central aesthetic feature. New nature trails, ADA-compliant paved paths, and boardwalks provide pond access, and a variety of habitats—including turtle logs, pollinator-friendly plants, and over 1,200 new trees—replace invasive weeds.
Flood storage in the pond will be maintained by a pump station equipped with level-control pumping technology. Using a cellular connection, the station collects real-time weather data to anticipate flood-storage needs and adjust the pond’s water level accordingly. If a large storm event is forecasted, this smart infrastructure will automatically lower the pond to accommodate stormwater.
Barr developed the final infrastructure design and construction plans, assisted with construction bidding and permitting, and provided construction observation. Construction of the Morningside flood infrastructure project was completed in 2023. The Morningside project has increased neighborhood flood resilience, reducing the flood risk for over 160 homes and buildings, while enhancing Weber Park—without aggravating flood risk to any resident.