Additional Hydraulic Improvements

Construction anticipated in late 2025 or early 2026.

The Additional Hydraulic Improvements Project is focused along the Blanchard River through the downtown Findlay area on the North side of the Blanchard River. It includes widening the floodplain bench between North Cory Street and the CSX Railroad, demolition of the existing pedestrian bridge, and the installation of two in-river riffles. The Additional Hydraulic Improvements floodplain bench is intended to be a continuation of the floodplain bench associated with the Norfolk Southern Railroad Bridge Improvements and Hydraulic Improvements Phase I. No other bridges will be impacted as part of this project. The work will take place on property purchased by the City and County.

In a 100-year storm, the water surface elevation reduction is projected to be 0.3 ft at Main Street, 0.2 ft at Riverside Dam, and gradually decreases to 0.0 ft upstream of OH-568. A 0.3 ft reduction is observed on Eagle Creek 0.5 miles upstream of its confluence with the Blanchard River. Additional benefit is seen during smaller, more frequent events.

The estimated final cost for this project is approximately $6,000,000. FEMA funds are being pursued to provide the funding for this project. If a FEMA grant is awarded, the project may begin towards the end of 2025, once FEMA’s project review and environmental assessments are complete.