After experiencing two historic floods in less than two years, Ellicott City was in desperate need of plan for flood mitigation that protects public safety, provides a sense of security to businesses, residents, and property owners, and retains the city's historic charm. 

Upon taking office in December 2018, County Executive Calvin Ball immediately directed the Department of Public Works (DPW) to develop options for flood mitigation using those values as guiding principles. Utilizing the information provided in the 2016 Ellicott City Hydrology/Hydraulic Study, DPW worked with the author of the report to reanalyze potential projects to see how to most effectively reduce the amount of water on the street on Lower Main Street and the West End while preserving as many buildings as possible. 

After analyzing over 70 potential scenarios, the county executive selected the five options that best achieve the desired outcomes to present to the community for comment and discussion. The community was given an opportunity to comment on these options via email, the website, or at a public meeting on May 2nd.
 
After reviewing the comments and conferring with experts, County Executive Ball selected option 3G.7.0. This bold plan is the best available option to move forward with urgency, prioritize public safety, and build a model of resilience.  
 
This was eviewed by a national team of experts assembled by the Army Corps of Engineers. In their report, the Army Corps affirmed that the county is following a sound process and that the projects included in the county's plan can significantly reduce flood risk to Historic Ellicott City.