Flood mitigation projects in Colorado Springs recognized for impactful and innovative construction

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- Two flood mitigation projects in the Colorado Springs area were recognized by the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) for being innovative in finding ways to protect the community from flooding.

One is in a detention pond in the northeastern corner of Garden of the Gods Park. It's designed to significantly reduce the flooding risk along Camp Creek. That area became vulnerable to flash flooding in the burn scar left by the Waldo Canyon Fire in 2012.

The other flood mitigation project is in the Pine Creek area. This project incorporated natural elements to strengthen the creek's banks, to restore the natural channel and stream system, to preserve area vegetation, and stabilize the channel to protect surrounding areas from flash flooding.

According to the city, both of these projects were funded, in part, by FEMA Pre-Disaster Hazard Mitigation Grants.