By HOLLY GASKILL
In a recent study, several points on the Rivergreenway were outlined as needing intervention to prevent erosion of the bank.
Through a Lake and River Enhancement grant, the Bluffton Parks Department was able to work with Stantec, an engineering firm, to study the Rivergreenway. Ross St. Clair and Jenna Meert, engineers with the firm, presented their findings at Washington Park Wednesday night.
St. Clair explained that the firm first evaluated the Rivergreenway in the spring, when they could see exposed areas of the bank. They’ve returned several times since then to evaluate their initial findings through different seasons.
“Conditions look pretty good from the bank, but looking from the river paints another picture,” St. Clair said.
Meert then presented three areas of high-need along the Rivergreenway where the Wabash River threatens the walking path or other nearby infrastructure. Given discussions with city and county officials, St. Clair said, the firm will proceed with design plans for one of the points. These plans may include reshaping the bank to be more conducive to the current, supporting the area with rocks, and implementing native plant species.
At the low end for one at-risk area, Meert estimated the project would cost $40,000. Projections for the other two bank erosion points were around $100,000. However, St. Clair noted these were rough estimates and contingent on many factors.
St. Clair stated the first of these projects would be best slated for next fall and winter, but the matter would be largely dependant on funding. While the erosion is not the worst he’s seen, St. Clair said the pathway may be threatened in areas by the eroding bank within the next several years, especially if there were substantial flooding.
Meert outlined several additional vulnerable points on the bank which were determined to be a lower priority. Generally, Meert advised the area needed more vegetation, specifically bushes and trees, to secure the bank.
The engineers also fielded public input regarding which common fishing areas and public use areas where support or access features could be added.
holly@news-banner.com
