Manhattan raises levee to help prevent major floods

MANHATTAN (KSNT) - The City of Manhattan and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is raising its levee system to control excess water when it rains to lower flooding risks.

After three years of work, the ribbon was cut for the new and improved system flood control system. Both groups in attendance talked about major floods in Kansas in 1951 and 1993. They say this investment will hep reduce severe flooding, making it safer for the community.

"Both commercial and residential areas will benefit from this project for years to come," said USACE Colonel Andrew Niewohner. "We're protecting property, we're protecting infrastructure and making the community stronger. In the event of a flood, improving the recovery time as well."

Manhattan Parks and Recreation also opened a hiking trail along the levee.

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