Transforming Neighborhoods through Community Partnerships and Flood Management Projects

10/18/23 07:55:am

No infrastructure initiative or I believe any type of civic improvement, can be accomplished in a vacuum. It takes people coming together and being partners.

Partnership is an easy word to throw around, but real partners must work hard to be successful. Just like a marriage, it takes a commitment from all parties.
The Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) has transformed from an agency that implemented infrastructure improvements mostly on its own to an agency that now seeks partners in all our efforts. MMSD learned the hard way that success is built atop the shoulders of many.

MMSD is currently working to reduce the risk of flooding in the 30th Street Corridor near Capital Drive. Two floodwater basins have already been built, and a third is being designed.

A stormwater basin is similar to a man-made pond that temporarily holds stormwater to reduce flooding. After the storm has passed, the water in the basin slowly releases to a nearby stream.

MMSD partnered with the Northwest Side Community Development Corporation (NWSCDC) to engage with neighbors. NWSCDC planned workshops, public meetings, social events, and more, with MMSD attending for the sole purpose of presenting our thoughts and then listening. MMSD learned so much! Once these projects are completed, I know they will become a neighborhood destination, a place to recreate, play, and learn.

What better outcome could you ask for from a flood management infrastructure project?

Efforts like 30th Street Corridor start by building partnerships, but the real sign of a good partnership is that you have also built friendships. As the young lady at the end of this video says, “It’s awesome to be here.”

North Stormwater Basin
East Stormwater Basin
Future West Stormwater Basin

Thank you to all of MMSD’s partners (friends)!

Be Safe. Be Understanding. Be Kind.

. Kevin L. Shafer signature

Kevin L. Shafer, P.E.
Executive Director - Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District

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