Emporia City Commissioners could move forward on a long-discussed environmental project as soon as next week.
During their recent study session Wednesday, commissioners spoke with Bruce Boettcher of BG Consultants regarding stormwater improvements to the Becker addition. BG is planning to present a contract for the improvements next Wednesday for commission approval after years of conversations on the topic.
According to residents, yearly rainstorms have led to significant erosion in a creek bed located behind the property. The erosion has led to large trees falling into the creek bed, the exposure of utility lines and a loss of land for homeowners.
Boettcher proposed two possible solutions to the problem Wednesday.
Both projects would cost roughly $3 million and Emporia Mayor Rob Gilligan says it would be the second-largest single project investment by the city during his time on the commission.
If all goes according to plan, Boettcher says the project could begin by this time next year. A funding mechanism for the project has not been decided, however, Gilligan says it is possible the commission could issue bonds to cover the cost.
The Emporia City Commission will reconvene for an action session next Wednesday at 7 pm inside the Municipal Courtroom at White Auditorium.
