2026-09-28-minutes-public-works-study-session

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Gladmar Road used to access the park. In response to the 1996 flooding, the County constructed the Gladmar Park —Spur Dike and Gladmar Park levees in 1997. The County Park was not re-established following the 1996 flooding. In 2004, the County declared its intent to vacate any interest in the historic roads located in Gladmar Park and the undeveloped Wade Road, including associated flood control structures. The Gladmar Park levee was breached following the 2009 flooding, and Kittitas County subsequently prepared the Yakima River at Gladmar Park Alternatives Assessment Report in 2012. The record contains no formal Board decision following preparation of the report, and none of the alternatives identified in the report have proceeded to construction. DISCUSSION: Initial reports and reconnaissance indicate that the primary current flood impact is to Cascade Irrigation District's ability to deliver water during September and October. In addition, a significant amount of bank material has eroded along the PTC Trail, leaving the trail vulnerable to additional erosion. Because Kittitas County vacated the historical roads in the area and is no longer managing its ownership for park use, there are currently no County assets at risk. The Flood Control Zone District was established to address flood management needs within the County. Public Works staff recommends proceeding at this time by updating the technical evaluation, researching permitting considerations, and engaging with entities with impacted infrastructure to discuss potential partnerships. This initial effort would inform next steps and help define the appropriate scope of the County's response. As a long-term consideration, given the history of channel migration, flooding, and erosion in this area, flood control measures may not deliver a permanent solution. FISCAL IMPACTS: This work is not currently included in the 2026 Flood Control Zone District budget. There is sufficient fund balance to conduct an initial technical evaluation and scoping efforts. Project implementation would have more significant budget implications that would need to be evaluated once potential project costs are known. Public Works will also work to identify potential cost -share and partnership opportunities. ATTACHMENTS: Exhibit 1: Vicinity Map. Exhibit 2: Flood Impact Photographs Page 2 of 4 PUBLIC WORKS BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WORK SESSION STAFF REPORT