Swamp Creek Improvements

Location: Kenmore, WA
Client: City of Kenmore

The City of Kenmore had become increasingly affected by upstream development, with the nearby Swamp Creek draining an urban area that had grown to 25 square miles. The increased pressure on the creek worsened flooding conditions for residents and increased flows to the City. Working with Kenmore officials, Otak designed and managed the implementation of several flood-reduction and stream-restoration measures. These measures included the reconstruction of 1,000-linear-feet of the Swamp Creek channel to provide additional floodplain storage and wetland area and the restoration of natural stream functions. The channel modifications, creation of floodplain wetlands and restoration of riparian vegetation are all expected to improve fish and wildlife habitat in the area while improving conditions for residents as well.