DESCRIPTION
Project is to replace the Mill Creek Dam that was breached during the November 2008 storm. Project may require modification of downstream culverts and tide-gates. Flood Hazard Reduction Benefits -- The population directly protected by this project is approximately 325 people (130 homes) in Cosmopolis and at least 200 people (90 homes) in South Aberdeen. Also two businesses (Western Peterbilt with 25 employees and D4 Sports with seven employees) are adjacent to Mill Creek and are directly affected by its flood flows. Western Peterbilt provides Cosmopolis with tax base revenue on annual sales in excess of $14,000,000. The Grays Harbor County Road Maintenance Shop (with 10-15 employees) is also directly adjacent to Mill Creek. It stores critical equipment for the maintenance of roads in the central part of Grays Harbor County.
The Mill Creek Dam replacement project in Cosmopolis, WA, replaced a dam that was breached during a November 2008 storm. This project removed and replaced the existing dam with a new modern flood hazard reduction structure made of similar construction. The new dam includes both low flow and high flow fish passage that eliminated the fish barrier that the old dam was. Additional features constructed include habitat restoration, and the opening of close to 4 miles of new spawning habitat. A new footbridge was placed over the new dam to provide public access around the Mill Creek Pond.
