Flood Resilience Scoping Study for the Town of Whitingham, VT

Challenge

The East Branch of the North River passes through the Village of Jacksonville, VT, the central village in Whitingham. The Village contains a mix of residences, businesses, and municipal buildings, including the town offices, library, and fire house. During major storm events, the river floods the Village. 

Solution

In partnership with Fitzgerald Environmental Associates, we conducted a scoping study to investigate ways to protect the Village from severe flooding through improvements to the river channel, floodplain, bridge, culvert, and surrounding infrastructure. The study was completed per VTrans Municipal Assistance Bureau requirements. As part of the study we developed conceptual alternatives, oversaw plan production, coordinated with subconsultants, managed public meetings, and oversaw the schedule for all deliverables.  

The selected alternative was the replacement of the existing bridge and culvert with a new 56’ long by 16’ wide culvert with a naturalized bottom for the structure replacement.  

Results

The Town of Whitingham decided to pursue engineering of the selected alternative, and phase 2 is currently underway. The new structure will include a span and vertical clearance that better accommodates the East Branch of the North River reducing the flood risk for the area.  

At a Glance

• Client: Town of Whitingham
• Location: Village of Jacksonville, VT
• Project Dates: 2020–2022
• Services Provided:
  • Concept Plan
  • Coordination with Local & State Regulators
  • Feasibility Review/Scoping Study
  • Survey