City systems prepared for significant rainfall events

With more rain in the forecast this coming weekend, the City of Spruce Grove’s utility infrastructure is once again ready to handle significant rainfall. Drainage, Roads, and Utility crews will also be on stand-by to monitor the situation and provide any necessary support throughout the community.

As seen last weekend (June 20-21), the City’s utility infrastructure and drainage system are well prepared to handle heavy rainfall events. Throughout the city, there was no significant roadway flooding (with the exception of one portion of Century Road, north of Grove Drive), which shows the system was functioning exactly as expected. Roadways and curbs are designed in a way to channel water and direct it to the nearest stormwater management facility (SWMF) and excess water running into the street is expected as it’s our secondary line of defense. During rain events, it is anticipated that SWMF water levels will rise, which may include flooding around nearby pathways and benches. This activity shows the utility is working as it should. 

This also confirms the importance of the City’s ongoing investment and maintenance of the stormwater network, which is supported through the City’s stormwater utility. The stormwater utility is a small monthly fee paid by all property owners and funds collected through the stormwater utility go into a dedicated stormwater network fund that is used to address preventative maintenance and repairs, as well as paying for future stormwater projects. This proactive approach helps ensure the City’s infrastructure can withstand significant rainfall as the community grows.

What can you do during a heavy rainfall event to stay safe and help minimize potential damage?

• Before the rain comes, test your sump pump to make sure it’s working properly.
• Ensure your eavestroughs are cleared and downspouts are lowered to support efficient water flow away from your property.
• If you are driving on a roadway that is covered in water, slow down to avoid hydroplaning.
• Stay away from any flowing water and SWMFs, as undercurrents may exist. Playing or splashing in the water is a significant safety risk.
• Consider reducing your non-essential water use during a heavy rainstorm, as this can help reduce pressure on the system. 
• If you have drainage concerns, please call the City’s water or sewer emergency reporting line at 780-441-6266.