The City of Des Moines, Iowa is undertaking a comprehensive and multi-phase project known as the Des Moines Levee Alterations Project (DMLAP) to address the existing levee systems on the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers that do not meet FEMA levee accreditation requirements as outlined in 44 CFR 65.10. The primary goal of the project is to bring the levee systems into compliance with these FEMA requirements, thus reducing the risk of flooding in the surrounding community.
Barr provided detailed design and construction project management to achieve the desired improvements. This involved raising the crest elevation of select levees and floodwalls, modifying gatewell structures, enhancing temporary closure structures, improving embankment protection measures, assessing geotechnical stability, constructing seepage mitigation measures, and addressing deficiencies identified by the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE).
Our diverse geotechnical experience and expertise proved to be valuable during critical project phases involving geotechnical challenges. Team members conducted a thorough assessment of the geotechnical conditions to ensure the stability of the structures and to implement appropriate mitigation measures.
Seepage mitigation included a seepage relief trench system which eliminated the need to relocate numerous existing utility infrastructure.
Our experienced team coordinated design and construction to meet USACE’s guidance. This includes obtaining the necessary USACE permits, such as those related to Section 404 and 408, which govern wetland impacts and alterations.
The successful completion of the DMLAP will result in an improved flood risk management system that meets accreditation requirements specified by FEMA. By bringing the levee systems into compliance with 44 CFR 65.10, the project will enhance the overall resilience of the City of Des Moines, protecting its residents and infrastructure from the potential impacts of flooding events.