Flood control systems in the Kelsey Creek watershed are completed and have alleviated large-scale flooding. Some flood control projects in the Coal Creek watershed, however, are still under construction or are on the drawing board. Having a utility in place since 1974 has helped us develop a comprehensive drainage system that controls flooding and major storm damage. We know our efforts at stormwater management are working, since Bellevue's storm damage during regional storms is minimal compared to other local cities. You may recognize some stormwater detention sites right away because they're wetlands, which are recognizable.
Wetlands hold water during storms to slow water flow.
Identifying other sites can be tricky. For instance, at the corner of Bel-Red Rd. Actually it's a detention site that serves as a park in dry weather. If you look closely, you'll see that the garbage cans are bolted down so they don't float away when stormwater fills the site. Other stormwater detention sites function as sport courts during dry weather.