Title
Update on Sea Level Rise
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Receive an update on sea level rise issues and provide City staff with general guidance on next steps.
Report
Issue:
Sea level rise and its potential to increase downtown Olympia flooding is a concern. In recent years, staff has provided City Council with an annual update on the science of sea level rise and our planning and engineering responses.
Staff Contact:
Eric Christensen, Planning and Engineering Manager, Public Works Water Resources, 360.570.3741
Andy Haub, Water Resources Director, Public Works Water Resources, 360.753.8475
Presenter(s):
Eric Christensen, Public Works Water Resources
Background and Analysis:
Downtown Olympia has a long history of flooding. It is built on low-lying fill and continues to be at risk of flooding.
The City first addressed the risks of sea level rise in 1991. Since 2007, staff has completed annual work plans that improve our information. In recent years, minor City construction projects have reduced flooding downtown. While it remains difficult to predict the level or timing of sea rise, our understanding of Olympia-specific implications increases.
The Olympia Comprehensive Plan goals and policies provide specific guidance on our response to sea rise (See attachment 1).
During the study session, staff will provide an update on global and local sea level rise trends. We will explain the implications to downtown. Staff will share a proposal to increase our community discussions about sea rise and to develop a response plan. The plan would address the long-term needs to protect downtown.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Various community groups and other agencies are engaged in climate change and sea level rise issues.
Options:
N/A
Financial Impact:
The City allocates $150,000 bi-annually through the Storm and Surface Water Uti...
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