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2023 Flood Response

2023 Flood Response
Posted on 05/31/2023
2023 Flood Response

05/31/23

As a resilient community, the City positioned itself at the ready for potential spring flooding beginning in February with seasonal flood preparedness and a close eye on the National Weather Service Spring Flood Outlooks. And ready we were, as the flood forecast changed from minor inconvenience in February to a possible new historic crest at plus or minus a foot from 22 FT in April.

As the City headed into March, it became clear flood risk could be significant, calling for property owners to prepare for flooding as the City prepared. To assist, community meetings were held in March to help connect property owners with resources to reduce flood risk well before the river rose.

Forecast to reach flood Action stage of 13 FT in days ahead, the City activated its flood plan on April 6 in response to arriving river stages. The response went like clockwork from there, with the river reaching Moderate Stage on April 21, Minor Flood Stage on April 22, Major Flood Stage on April 25, and cresting at 21.51 sometime on May 1. In total, the river remained above the flood Action Stage of 13 FT for 43 consecutive days and Major Flood Stage of 18 FT for 17 days.

While response went smoothly, some damages were incurred due to river flow and currents that will take time for repair—markedly the pavement, sanitary, and storm sewer failure at Brady and River Dr and Credit Island Lane. Planning and work to perform repairs will continue into June. Noting some damage, Parks and Recreation was pleased to report the resilience of riverfront turf and Credit Island Lodge to flood waters.

The City looks forward to closing this event out with the re-opening of all roads.

Prior 2023 Updates - 01/01/23 to 05/26/23



05/26/23
The Mississippi dropped below the Flood Action Stage of 13 FT earlier in the week. Recovery will continue for a few more weeks. This will be our last flood update. We will keep the community informed as some of the remaining actions take place.

Roads

  • River Dr closures between Marquette and 2nd Streets will remain for several more weeks due to the collapsed sewers at Brady. Sanitary and storm sewer line repairs are estimated to be complete by June 9.
  • S Concord between Utah and River Dr will remain closed for debris clearing and cleaning. The road will re-open by June 2. Continue using Rockingham to Wapello to Railroad Ave to access the Davenport Compost Facility. 

Sand and Sandbags

  • Individuals who received sand and sandbags should call (563) 326-7923 or place a request online at www.davenportiowa.com/pwrs to have sand and sandbags collected. Sandbags must be placed in a pile in the curb line and not obstruct traffic. The City will not pick up sandbags we have not received a request for.

Parks

  • Volunteers are assisting staff with cleaning the Skatepark over the weekend. The park will re-open by Tuesday, May 30.
  • The Riverfront Recreational Trail and Walk have been cleared. Users should use caution, however, as some dirt remains along the edges. Staff will remove the material as time allows over the coming weeks.
  • The LeClaire Park turf was resilient and survived with minimal damage. Staff will continue monitoring and re-seed as needed. At this time, the turf is growing and being mowed.
  • The docks at Marquette are being repaired and will be reinstalled by or before Monday, June 5.
  • Credit Island Park will remain closed. The cleanup process has begun; however, road repairs are required before the park can re-open. Staff is currently developing a plan for repairs.

05/19/23

With Mississippi hovering at 15 FT today and expected to drop below flood action stage of 13 FT around Wednesday, May 24, we are getting closer to closing this flood event out. River Dr will remain essentially closed between Marquette and 2nd Streets due to the sinkhole on Brady St and to provide for a safe truck detour. Local access will be available between Myrtle and Ripely and Perry and Pershing. View a map of current closures at this link. 

Here’s what to expect in the coming weeks:

Roads

  • River Dr closures between Marquette and 2nd Streets will remain for several more weeks due to the collapsed storm sewer at Brady.  Repairs/removal of the structure and road cannot begin until river levels recede well below flood action stage of 13 FT. 
  • S Concord between Utah and River Dr may re-open by the end of next week, pending the volume of debris on the road and clearing activities. 
  • Beiderbecke should re-open sometime during the week of May 22 following cleaning.

Sand and Sandbags

  • Individuals who received sand and sandbags should call (563) 326-7923 or place a request online at www.davenportiowa.com/pwrs to have sand and sandbags collected. Sandbags must be placed in a pile in the curb line and not obstruct traffic. The City will not pick up sandbags we have not received a request for.

Parks

All riverfront park amenities remain closed going into the weekend.

  • Parks is assessing riverfront turf. Look for an estimated time for recovery and event info next week.
  • Parks is cleaning the Riverfront Recreational Trail and Walk. Look for updates on re-opening next week.
  • The trail between Marquette and Credit Island will remain closed longer as water will not be completely off the trail until next week.
  • Credit Island Park will remain closed until road repairs and cleaning can be performed. This could be two or more weeks. We will keep everyone updated.
  • Skatepark cleaning will take a little over a week to complete. Look for updates on re-opening the week of May 29. 
  • Watch for details on placement of the boat dock back at Marquette Landing.

Other Measures

  • Pumps have been or are being set, and appropriate gates closed in various low-lying areas of the City.

Forecast and Updates

  • We continue to monitor conditions as we recover. Watch for more re-opening information late the week of May 22.

05/19/23

With the river now falling below Major Flood Stage to 17.27 FT, more roads are re-opening! River Dr is now closed between Division and Gaines Streets, and Harrison to 3rd St on the east. Access to River Dr is available via 3rd and 4th Streets on the east and from Division on the west. The area between Gaines and Harrison is also accessible using north/south side streets. View detour map at this link.

Here’s recap of where things stand. 

Sand and Sandbags

  • Individuals who received sand and sandbags should call (563) 326-7923 or place a request online at www.davenportiowa.com/pwrs to have sand and sandbags collected. Sandbags must be placed in a pile in the curb line and not obstruct traffic. The City will not pick up sandbags we have not received a request for.

Roads

  • River Dr is now closed between Division and Gaines Streets, and Harrison to 3rd St on the east. Access to River Dr is available via 3rd and 4th Streets on the east and from Division on the west. The area between Gaines and Harrison is also accessible using north/south side streets.
  • S Concord is closed between River Dr and Utah, and along portions of Wapello and Miller.
  • Beiderbecke is closed.
  • Visitors to the downtown are welcome to park at the Harrison St Ramp for free due to parking lost due to flooding.

Facilities

  • The Freight House is open; however, Market will be held at its temporary location at the Scott County Administration building this weekend. Watch for Market to return to the Freight House on May 20.
  •  The flood walls at Modern Woodmen Park will be removed with the river’s re-treat. Games will happen as scheduled later this week.

Recreation

  • Please do not walk, wade, or drive through floodwater for safety.
  • The entire Riverfront Recreation Trail and Walk are closed.
  • Riverfront Parks (LeClaire, Veterans Memorial, Marquette Dog Off Leash) are closed.
  • The Skate Park is closed.
  • Credit Island is closed.
  • The boat dock at Marquette Landing is not in place.

Other Measures

  • Pumps have been or are being set, and appropriate gates closed in various low-lying areas of the City.

Forecast and Updates

  • We continue to monitor conditions as we recover. Watch for more re-opening information late the week of May 15.

05/12/23

With the river now falling below Major Flood Stage to 17.27 FT, more roads are re-opening! River Dr is now closed between Division and Gaines Streets, and Harrison to 3rd St on the east. Access to River Dr is available via 3rd and 4th Streets on the east and from Division on the west. The area between Gaines and Harrison is also accessible using north/south side streets. View detour map at this link.

Here’s recap of where things stand. 

Sand and Sandbags

  • Individuals who received sand and sandbags should call (563) 326-7923 or place a request online at www.davenportiowa.com/pwrs to have sand and sandbags collected. Sandbags must be placed in a pile in the curb line and not obstruct traffic. The City will not pick up sandbags we have not received a request for.

Roads

  • River Dr is now closed between Division and Gaines Streets, and Harrison to 3rd St on the east. Access to River Dr is available via 3rd and 4th Streets on the east and from Division on the west. The area between Gaines and Harrison is also accessible using north/south side streets.
  • S Concord is closed between River Dr and Utah, and along portions of Wapello and Miller.
  • Beiderbecke is closed.
  • Visitors to the downtown are welcome to park at the Harrison St Ramp for free due to parking lost due to flooding.

Facilities

  • The Freight House is open; however, Market will be held at its temporary location at the Scott County Administration building this weekend. Watch for Market to return to the Freight House on May 20.
  • The flood walls at Modern Woodmen Park will be removed with the river’s re-treat. Games will happen as scheduled later this week.

Recreation

  • Please do not walk, wade, or drive through floodwater for safety.
  • The entire Riverfront Recreation Trail and Walk are closed.
  • Riverfront Parks (LeClaire, Veterans Memorial, Marquette Dog Off Leash) are closed.
  • The Skate Park is closed.
  • Credit Island is closed.
  • The boat dock at Marquette Landing is not in place.

Other Measures

  • Pumps have been or are being set, and appropriate gates closed in various low-lying areas of the City.

Forecast and Updates

  • We continue to monitor conditions as we recover. Watch for more re-opening information late the week of May 15.





05/12/23

With the river now falling below Major Flood Stage to 17.27 FT, more roads are re-opening! River Dr is now closed between Division and Gaines Streets, and Harrison to 3rd St on the east. Access to River Dr is available via 3rd and 4th Streets on the east and from Division on the west. The area between Gaines and Harrison is also accessible using north/south side streets. View detour map at this link.

Here’s recap of where things stand. 

Sand and Sandbags

  • Individuals who received sand and sandbags should call (563) 326-7923 or place a request online at www.davenportiowa.com/pwrs to have sand and sandbags collected. Sandbags must be placed in a pile in the curb line and not obstruct traffic. The City will not pick up sandbags we have not received a request for.

Roads

  • River Dr is now closed between Division and Gaines Streets, and Harrison to 3rd St on the east. Access to River Dr is available via 3rd and 4th Streets on the east and from Division on the west. The area between Gaines and Harrison is also accessible using north/south side streets.
  • S Concord is closed between River Dr and Utah, and along portions of Wapello and Miller.
  • Beiderbecke is closed.
  • Visitors to the downtown are welcome to park at the Harrison St Ramp for free due to parking lost due to flooding.

Facilities

  • The Freight House is open; however, Market will be held at its temporary location at the Scott County Administration building this weekend. Watch for Market to return to the Freight House on May 20.
  • The flood walls at Modern Woodmen Park will be removed with the river’s re-treat. Games will happen as scheduled later this week.

Recreation

  • Please do not walk, wade, or drive through floodwater for safety.
  • The entire Riverfront Recreation Trail and Walk are closed.
  • Riverfront Parks (LeClaire, Veterans Memorial, Marquette Dog Off Leash) are closed.
  • The Skate Park is closed.
  • Credit Island is closed.
  • The boat dock at Marquette Landing is not in place.

Other Measures

  • Pumps have been or are being set, and appropriate gates closed in various low-lying areas of the City.

Forecast and Updates

  • We continue to monitor conditions as we recover. Watch for more re-opening information late the week of May 15.




05/10/23
Signs of the return to normal continued today, with the re-opening of River Dr between Bridge St through Bettendorf earlier this afternoon. With the development of a sink hole on River Dr at Brady and the river remaining at Major Flood Stage, we still have a ways to go.

View new detour map at this link. 

Here’s what your need to know as we head into the weekend.

  • Many of your favorite locations in the Freight House and Union Station have returned and are open. Call in advance before you visit. Visit the Market this Mother’s Day weekend at its temporary location at the Scott County Administration building. Market will return to the Freight House on May 20.
  • Several other River Dr adjacent businesses remain open and just a short walk away. Remember, you can park for free in the Harrison St Ramp. 
  • The River Bandits will play as regularly scheduled at Modern Woodmen Park.
  • Keep an eye out for more changing traffic control as the river moves off of River Dr, we know more about the sink hole, and repairs are made next week.

05/08/23
We are getting some relief as the river continues to fall. The current river stage is 19.05 FT, and expected to fall below Major Flood Stage of 18 FT, sometime, Thursday, May 11. In terms of road closures and detours we will only see minor changes late to mid-week. With continued fall through the weekend, time for cleaning and debris removal, we anticipate a full re-opening of River Dr sometime late the week of May 22.

Here’s a recap of what to expect this week.  

  • River Dr between Bridge and Bettendorf will re-open sometime mid-to-late week in coordination with the City of Bettendorf.
  • W 2nd St between Division and Gaines should fully re-open by the end of the day Tuesday, May 9.
  • The Davenport Compost Facility is open at 2707 Railroad St. Just take Rockingham Rd/Hwy 22 to Wapello, to Railroad St.
  • The River’s Edge will re-open to the public on Wednesday, May 10.
  • We will know more about the Farmer’s Market sometime Tuesday.
  • Union Station is set to re-open on Wednesday, May 10.

Sand and Sandbags

  • Individuals who received sand and sandbags should call (563) 326-7923 or place a request online at www.davenportiowa.com/pwrs to have sand and sandbags collected. Sandbags must be placed in a pile in the curb line and not obstruct traffic. The City will not pick up sandbags we have not received a request for.

Roads

  • River Dr is closed at Hwy 22/Rockingham Rd through Bettendorf. Several side streets are closed. View the detour map at this link. 
  •  W 2nd St is closed between Division and Myrtle.
  • Southbound Marquette is closed at 3rd Street.
  • S Concord is closed between River Dr and Utah. Closures have also extended onto Wapello and Miller.
  • Beiderbecke is closed.
  • Visitors to the downtown are welcome to park at the Harrison St Ramp for free due to parking lost due to flooding.

Facilities

  • The River’s Edge is closed until flood waters recede and roads are cleaned and recovered. Questions about the closure and/or programs should be directed to Davenport Parks and Recreation by calling 563.328.7275 (PARK).
  • Watch for updates on the Freight House, Market, and businesses. These locations are currently closed.
  • Union Station will re-open Wednesday, May 10.
  • The flood walls at Modern Woodmen Park will be removed with the river’s re-treat. Games will happen as scheduled later this week.

Recreation

  • Please do not walk, wade, or drive through floodwater for safety.
  • The entire Riverfront Recreation Trail and Walk are closed.
  • Riverfront Parks (LeClaire, Veterans Memorial, Marquette Dog Off Leash) are closed.
  • The Skate Park is closed.
  • Credit Island is closed.
  • The boat dock at Marquette Landing is not in place.

Other Measures

  • Pumps have been or are being set, and appropriate gates closed in various low-lying areas of the City.

Forecast and Updates

  • We continue to monitor conditions as we recover.

05/07/23
The Mississippi has been gradually falling all week after officially cresting at 21.51 FT, on Monday, May 1. We remain a bit on the high side of things with today’s river stage at 19.5 FT, but are looking forward to the river falling below Major Flood Stage of 18 FT sometime, Wednesday, May 10.  With this in mind, here are some of the changes that will happen next week:

  • Watch for portions of River Dr to re-open and an updated detour by mid-to-late week next week.
  • The Davenport Compost Facility will re-open at its regular location at 2707 Railroad St on Monday, May 8. There will be no drop-off at the Scott Area Landfill.
  • Look for updates on the re-opening of the River’s Edge, Freight House, Farmer’s Market, and Union Station early next week.

05/01/23
The Mississippi River is cresting and beginning to recede. Winds are creating a minor issue with National Weather Service reads on the gauges today, but right now, it looks like the crest will fall around 21.45 FT.

Our best estimate right now is that the river will continue falling back into its banks over the next two to three weeks. Roads will be re-opened, and detours lifted in line with river fall. What that means right now, the existing detour is likely to remain in place for another week. We will keep everyone updated as we walk the flood response plan back.

Key Takeaways for Today

  • Find recovery resources and information on gas restoration where utilities have been cut-off at www.bepreparedavenport.com.
  • Businesses are open and just a short walk away. Park for free at the Harrison St Ramp.
  • Keep doing your part to protect yourself and our community’s health. Obey traffic control in place.

Find other specifics about facility and recreation closures below.

Sand and Sandbags

  • As the river falls, call for sandbag pick-up at (563) 326-7923 or place a request online at www.davenportiowa.com/pwrs. Sandbags must be placed in a pile in the curb line and not obstruct traffic. The City will not pick up sandbags we have not received a request for.

Roads

  • River Dr is closed at Hwy 22/Rockingham Rd through Bettendorf. Several side streets are closed. View the detour map at this link.
  • W 2nd St is closed between Division and Myrtle.
  • Southbound Marquette is closed at 3rd Street.
  • S Concord is closed between River Dr and Utah. Closures have also extended onto Wapello and Miller.
  • Beiderbecke is closed.
  • Visitors to the downtown are welcome to park at the Harrison St Ramp for free due to parking lost due to flooding.

Facilities

  • The River’s Edge is closed until flood waters recede and roads are cleaned and recovered. Questions about the closure and/or programs should be directed to Davenport Parks and Recreation by calling 563.328.7275 (PARK).
  •  The Davenport Compost Facility’s Railroad St location is closed due to water over the road. Yard waste may be dropped off at the Scott Area Landfill from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Mondays, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Saturdays. Individuals dropping off yard waste will be directed on where to place yard waste at the landfill for later composting. No compost products will be available for purchase until the Compost Facility can be re-opened.
  • The Freight House, Market, and businesses will close to the public by 5 p.m., Friday, April 28. The Freight House Farmer’s Market will be held at the Scott County Administration Center located at 600 W 4th Street on Saturday, May 6, and Sunday, May 7.
  • Union Station is closed.
  • The flood walls at Modern Woodmen Park have been installed. No at-home games are scheduled during the estimated duration of the flood.

Recreation

  • Please do not walk, wade, or drive through floodwater for safety.
  • The entire Riverfront Recreation Trail and Walk are closed, with most of the trail covered with water as the river continues to rise.
  • Riverfront Parks (LeClaire, Veterans Memorial, Marquette Dog Off Leash) are closed.
  • The Skate Park is closed.
  • Credit Island is closed.
  • The boat dock at Marquette Landing is not in place.

Other Measures

  • Pumps have been or are being set, and appropriate gates closed in various low-lying areas of the City.

Forecast and Updates

  • Crews continue to respond to the river as it rises and is monitoring conditions.

04/28/23
The Mississippi has continued to creep up on a few of our central riverfront roads. Find details on updated closures at this link. We are currently at river stage 20.66 FT, and the forecasted crest of reaching 21.6 FT on May 1 remains current.

As we head into the weekend, please be aware of the impacts of driving around barricades or through water over the road.  Did you know the wakes created in these areas can impact adjacent property owner’s flood protection? Not to mention other potential impacts such as loss of a car. We can’t stress enough please do not walk, wade, swim or drive around flood water. Do your part to protect yourself and our community’s health and safety.

Property owners impacted by the flood are encouraged to visit www.beprepareddavenport. A growing list of recovery resources and information can be found there.

Find other specifics about facility and recreation closures at the 04/27/23 post below.

04/27/23
The Mississippi River hit river stage 20.04 a short time ago and is predicted to crest at 21.6 FT on Monday, May 1. As the river has risen, we have adapted and prepared to be resilient. Today, the State of Iowa is supporting that effort by opening up the Iowa Individual Assistance Program and offering Case Management Services for residents impacted by flooding following a State Declaration of Emergency by Governor Kim Reynolds. View the full press release and linked resources here.

Moving into the weekend, many may still be preparing. Remember to check out the property resources tab on our www.beprepareddavenport.com website and observe traffic control and warnings in place. River Dr is closed from Hwy 22/Rockingham Rd through Bettendorf, and the entire Riverfront Recreation Trail is closed.

Here’s information on current conditions and response:

Sand and Sandbags

  • Sand and sandbags are available to the public impacted at river levels to 23 FT. Place requests by calling 563.326.7923 between 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, or by submitting a request online anytime at www.davenportiowa.com/pwrs. Be sure to include contact information and needs.

Roads

  • River Dr is closed at Hwy 22/Rockingham Rd through Bettendorf. Several side streets are closed. View the detour map at this link.
  • W 2nd St is closed between Division and Myrtle.
  • Southbound Marquette is closed at 3rd Street.
  • S Concord is closed between River Dr and Utah. Closures have also extended onto Wapello and Miller.
  • Beiderbecke is closed.
  • Visitors to the downtown are welcome to park at the Harrison St Ramp for free due to parking lost due to flooding.

Facilities

  • The River’s Edge is closed until flood waters recede and roads are cleaned and recovered. Questions about the closure and/or programs should be directed to Davenport Parks and Recreation by calling 563.328.7275 (PARK).
  •  The Davenport Compost Facility’s Railroad St location is closed due to water over the road. Yard waste may be dropped off at the Scott Area Landfill from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Mondays, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Saturdays. Individuals dropping off yard waste will be directed on where to place yard waste at the landfill for later composting. No compost products will be available for purchase until the Compost Facility can be re-opened.
  • The Freight House, Market, and businesses will close to the public by 5 p.m., Friday, April 28. The Freight House Farmer’s Market will be held at the Scott County Administration Center located at 600 W 4th Street on Saturday, May 6, and Sunday, May 7.
  • Union Station is closed.
  • The flood walls at Modern Woodmen Park have been installed. No at-home games are scheduled during the estimated duration of the flood.

Recreation

  • Please do not walk, wade, or drive through floodwater for safety.
  • The entire Riverfront Recreation Trail and Walk are closed, with most of the trail covered with water as the river continues to rise.
  • Riverfront Parks (LeClaire, Veterans Memorial, Marquette Dog Off Leash) are closed.
  • The Skate Park is closed.
  • Credit Island is closed.
  • The boat dock at Marquette Landing is not in place.

Other Measures

  • Pumps have been or are being set, and appropriate gates closed in various low-lying areas of the City.

Forecast and Updates

  • Crews continue to respond to the river as it rises and is monitoring conditions.

04/25/23

The Mississippi River is currently sitting at River Stage 18.76 FT and is expected to continue climbing to approximately 21.6 FT by Monday, May 1, and potentially crest at that time. Travel on and adjacent to River Dr will continue changing as the river rises. By the end of the day, Wednesday, April 26, River Dr will be closed between Hwy 22/Rockingham through Bettendorf. The road is currently closed on the west; the closure will continue to extend through Bettendorf over the next 18-hour period.  View River Drive Detour Map.

Whether for work or play, if your plans include visiting the riverfront area over the next two weeks, please do your part to keep you and our community safe, healthy, and resilient.

  • Do not tamper with, climb on, or otherwise vandalize temporary flood barriers.
  • Please avoid driving, walking, wading, or swimming through floodwater. Floodwater can carry unseen hazards such as debris and bacteria. Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can sweep you away, and 12 inches can float many vehicles.
  • Consider carpooling. Remember parking is free at the Harrison Street Ramp until floodwater recede and on-street/lots are re-opened.

Here’s an update on current conditions and response:

Sand and Sandbags

  • Sand and sandbags are available to the public impacted at river levels to 23 FT. Place requests by calling 563.326.7923 between 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, or by submitting a request online anytime at www.davenportiowa.com/pwrs. Be sure to include contact information and needs.

Roads

  • River Dr is closed at Hwy 22/Rockingham on the west through Tremont. This closure will extend through Bettendorf by the end of the day Wednesday, April 26. View the detour map at this link.
  • S Concord is closed between River Dr and Utah. Closures have also extended onto Wapello and Miller.
  • There will be limited thru traffic access on W 2nd St between Marquette and Division Streets as the river continues to rise.
  • Beiderbecke is closed.

Facilities

  • The River’s Edge is closed until flood waters recede and roads are cleaned and recovered. Questions about the closure and/or programs should be directed to Davenport Parks and Recreation by calling 563.328.7275 (PARK).
  • The Davenport Compost Facility will close at the end of the day Wednesday, April 26. Yard waste may be dropped off at the Scott Area Landfill from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Mondays, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Saturdays. Individuals dropping off yard waste will be directed on where to place yard waste at the landfill for later composting. No compost products will be available for purchase until the Compost Facility can be re-opened.
  • The Freight House, Market, and businesses will close to the public by 5 p.m., Friday, April 28. The Freight House Farmer’s Market will be held at the Scott County Administration Center located at 600 W 4th Street on Saturday, May 6, and Sunday, May 7.
  • Union Station is closed.
  • The flood walls at Modern Woodmen Park have been installed. No at-home games are scheduled during the estimated duration of the flood.

Recreation

  • Please do not walk, wade, or drive through floodwater for safety.
  • Riverfront Parks (LeClaire, Veterans Memorial, Marquette Dog Off Leash) are closed.
  • The Skate Park is closed.
  • The Riverfront Recreational Trail and Walk are closed.
  • Credit Island is closed.
  • The boat dock at Marquette Landing is not in place.

Other Measures

  • Pumps have been or are being set, and appropriate gates closed in various low-lying areas of the City.

Forecast and Updates

  • Crews continue to respond to the river as it rises and is monitoring conditions.

04/24/23
Travel Alert! In coordination with the IDOT, W River Dr is now closed between Hwy 22 and Division. Use Hwy 22/Rockingham until the river recedes in the coming weeks. Watch for additional changes in travel routes on Tuesday, April 25.

04/23/23

The Mississippi River will continue creeping up over the next two weeks. Currently, the river is sitting at 17.25 FT and is expected to reach 18 FT sometime Monday, April 24, and potentially 21.1 FT by Sunday, April 30. The most recent National Weather Service forecast indicates the Mississippi is expected to crest at 22 FT +/- 1 FT around May 2 to May 4. 

As we head into the week, be aware traffic control on River Dr will continue to change on Monday, April 24, as the river consumes more of River Dr. The River’s Edge will also be closed beginning Tuesday, April 25. Remember several other river adjacent businesses remain open. Park for free at the Harrison Street Ramp.

Here’s everything you need to know as we plan for resilience.

Sand and Sandbags

  • Sand and sandbags are available to the public impacted at river levels to 23 FT. Place requests by calling 563.326.7923 between 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, or by submitting a request online anytime at www.davenportiowa.com/pwrs.  Be sure to include contact information and needs.

Roads

  • River Dr is closed between Division Street on the west and 3rd Street on the east. This will change throughout the day Monday, April 24, as traffic control will extend the closure to Tremont. North/south access through the intersection will remain at Western, Scott and Ripley. The closure will continue to extend as the river rises.  View detour map at this link.
  • S Concord is closed between River Dr and Utah. Closures have also extended on Wapello and Miller.
  • Beiderbecke will become covered with water and closed as the river continues to rise above 18 FT.

Facilities

  • The River’s Edge will close to the public beginning Tuesday, April 25. Questions about the closure and/or programs can be directed to Davenport Parks and Recreation by calling 563.328.7275 (PARK).
  •  Access to the Davenport Compost Facility is available by taking Rockingham Rd/Hwy 22 to Wapello to Railroad Ave. Watch for changes as the river rises above 19 FT.
  • Union Station is closed.
  • The flood walls at Modern Woodmen Park have been installed.
  • Watch for updates on the Freight House and Market, as well as Modern Woodmen Park, this week.

Recreation

Please do not walk, wade or drive through floodwater for safety.

  • Riverfront Parks (LeClaire, Veterans Memorial, Marquette Dog Off Leash) are closed.
  • The Riverfront Recreational Trail and Walk are closed.
  • Credit Island is closed.
  • The boat dock at Marquette Landing is not in place.

Other Measures

  • Pumps have been or are being set, and appropriate gates closed in various low-lying areas of the City.

Forecast and Updates

  • Crews are monitoring river levels and are prepared to respond, as needed, to changing river levels.







04/20/23
The City received a forecast update from the National Weather Service this afternoon. The Mississippi is now forecast to crest at 22 FT +/- 1 FT around May 2 to May 4.  Things will be changing quickly over the next week.

Here are a few key things keep in mind as head into the weekend. Watch for another update on Monday, April 24.

  • If part of your commute includes River Drive, plan for an alternate route beginning April 21. Find a map of the detour and areas closed due to flood barriers and/or water over the road. Note additional lane reductions may be required if we receive significant rain or the rate of river rise picks up speed. Expect a new detour to go into effect sometime Monday, April 24 as the river rises above 18 FT.
  • As alternative to riverfront and on-street parking between Iowa and Pershing, visitors to Downtown Davenport may park for free in the Harrison Street Ramp beginning Friday, April 21.
  • Remember to patron your favorite locations. They will be open and just a short walk away.

We will provide another update as conditions change and implementation of the plan continues with river level rise.
Find additional details on our current response activities in our update from April 19 below. Note Credit Island is now closed to the public, and sand and sandbags are available to properties impacted at river levels to stage 23 FT. Find details on sandbags at www.beprepareddavenport.com. 

04/19/23

With the Mississippi River forecast to take a swift uptick from a little over 15 FT on the afternoon of Friday, April 21, to around 18 FT on Monday, April 24, additional steps in the flood plan are being implemented. If part of your commute includes River Drive, plan for an alternate route beginning April 21. As the river rises, please remember to turn around, don’t drown. Find details below.

Sand and Sandbags

Roads

  •  River Dr will be closed between Iowa and Perry Streets beginning Friday, April 21, to install temporary flood barriers. Once the barriers go up, parking will not be permitted on side streets between Iowa and Perry, between River Dr and 2nd St. The riverfront parking lot will also be inaccessible. As an alternative, visitors to the area are welcome to use the Harrison St Parking Ramp for free.
  • River Dr will be closed at Marquette beginning Friday, April 21.
  • River Dr may see other lane reductions in low-lying areas during rain events due to the inability of the storm system to drain water at higher river levels, notably, the Federal area and adjacent to Marquette on either side.
  • S Concord is closed between River Dr and Wapello. Watch for this closure to extend to Utah by the end of the week.
  • Beiderbecke will become covered with water and closed sometime over the weekend.

Facilities

  •  Access to the Davenport Compost Facility is available by taking Rockingham Rd/Hwy 22 to Wapello to Railroad Ave.

Recreation

  •  The Riverfront Recreational Trail is closed between Credit Island and Veterans Memorial Park. The Riverfront Walk and other lengths of the Riverfront Recreational Trail will begin to cover as the river rises above 16 FT later this week. Please refrain from entering, walking, or wading through flood water for your safety.
  • Credit Island will close to the public Thursday, April 20. Water will begin to cover the causeway by late Friday.

Other Measures

  •  Pumps have been or are being set, and appropriate gates closed in various low-lying areas of the City.

Forecast and Updates 

  •  The current river level is 14.64, and currently forecast to reach 18.7 FT on Wednesday, April 26. We will receive more information on what the National Weather Service is forecasting on Thursday, April 20, during a scheduled flood briefing. Updates will be released as conditions change.

04/17/23

The Mississippi is on the move. Here’s what to expect as we head into the week. The current river level is 14.44FT and is expected to reach a little over 16 FT on the morning of Saturday, April 22.

Current Response Conditions

Sand and Sandbags
Sand and sandbags are available to the public impacted at river levels to 18 FT, visit beprepaeddavenport.com for details.

Roads
S Concord is closed between River Dr and Wapello. Watch for this closure to extend to Utah by the end of the week.

Facilities
Access to the Davenport Compost Facility is available by taking Rockingham Rd/Hwy 22 to Wapello to Railroad Ave.

Recreation
The Riverfront Recreational Trail is closed between Credit Island and Veterans Memorial Park. The Riverfront Walk and other lengths of the trail will begin to cover as the river rises above 16 FT later this week.

Credit Island is likely to close to the public on/around Thursday, April 20. Water will begin to cover the causeway at approximately 15.5 FT.

Other Measures 
Pumps have been or are being set, and appropriate gates closed in various low-lying areas of the City.

Watch for updates mid-to-late week. The City expects another update on the flood forecast from the National Weather Service on Thursday afternoon.

04/12/23

Since activating the flood plan on April 6, the Mississippi River has risen above the 13 FT Action Stage at Lock and Dam 15 and is expected to continue to trend upward over the next two weeks before cresting at or above 18 FT sometime in the first week of May. The City’s Flood Plan will be implemented incrementally with river rise. As part of the next steps in the plan, sand, and sandbags are being made available to private property owners at risk of flooding through Mississippi River flood stage 20 FT as follows.

  1. Small quantity sandbags (< 100). Small quantities of filled sandbags will be available for pick up at the City’s Marquette Facility on weekdays, 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., beginning Thursday, April 13. The bags will be staged outside the gates at the Marquette Facility located at 232 S Marquette St. Filled sandbags are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. Once the supply is gone, loose sand and bags may be furnished upon request to 563.326.7923. Hours may be extended as conditions warrant.
  2. Large quantity sandbags (> 100). Loose sand and bags are available to property owners needing large quantities of sandbags. Request loose sand and bags for delivery by calling Public Works at 563.326.7923, Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Requests need to include the number of bags requested, delivery address, and contact number.
  3. Flood Barriers. Large quantities of loose sand are available to property owners needing sand to fill private flood barriers. Request barrier sand by calling Public Works at 563.326.7923, Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Requests need to include the type and quantity of barrier to be filled, delivery address, and contact number. Remember to coordinate the placement of all flood barriers with Public Works to ensure there are no public right-of-way conflicts.

It is important to note limits may be placed on excessive requests inconsistent with forecast river levels and property attributes to reduce waste and ensure available supply.

Current Response Conditions

Roads

  • S Concord is closed between River Dr and Wapello.

Facilities

  • Access to the Davenport Compost Facility is available by taking Rockingham Rd/Hwy 22 to Wapello to Railroad Ave.

Other Measures 

  • Pumps have been or are being set, and appropriate gates closed in various low-lying areas of the City.

The City expects to hear another update on the flood forecast from the National Weather Service on Thursday afternoon. Pending a significant change in the forecast, we will provide our next update during the week of April 17 as the river continues to rise and additional actions are placed.

04/06/23
The City received a briefing from the National Weather Service earlier today on the Mississippi River flood outlook at Lock and Dam 15. Davenport’s flood plan has been activated, knowing the Mississippi will reach minor flood stage sometime between late Sunday, April 9, and Tuesday, April 11. Currently, there is significant potential the river will reach stage 18 FT around April 24 through May 1 and has a good chance of reaching 20 FT, pending the rate of snow melt to the north and precipitation. Right now, it also appears the rate of river recession may be prolonged based on a wet spring forecast. Stay tuned and in the know at www.beprepareddavenport.com. Here’s what you need to know as the river rises.

Roads

  • Watch for S Concord to close between River Dr and Wapello sometime next week.

Facilities 

  • With the closure of S Concord, access to the Compost Facility, 2707 Railroad Ave, will remain available via Rockingham Rd/Hwy 22 to Wapello to Railroad Ave.

Other Measures

  • Pumps have been or are being set, and appropriate gates closed in various low-lying areas of the City.

Property owners in the floodplain for river stages 13 to 20 FT should watch for updates next week. We will announce the availability of sand and sandbags at that time. Use this link for more preparedness tips during a recent community flood preparation meeting.

We are ready and resilient and encourage everyone to prepare for potential flooding. Our next update will be released as the Mississippi rises above the flood action stage of 13 FT early next week.

03/26/23
While the National Weather Service reduced the potential for higher river stages in the short term, it is still too early to tell to what extent Davenport will see spring flooding. The rate of snowmelt to the north and precipitation continues to be a threat as we head into April. As of the March 25 outlook, potential flooding changed to 80% of reaching river stage 17 FT (1 FT over Moderate Flood Stage) and a 50% chance that the Mississippi River could reach stage 19 FT (1 FT over Major Flood Stage).

Of note, the timing of a potential crest has been pushed out a little further, with possible river level rises more likely occurring in late April/early May.

All told, the City will continue making appropriate preparations and keeping the community informed as updates in the forecast are released.

To help the community prepare, property owners and managers who could not attend community flood preparatory meetings can still benefit from the information presented by watching a video of the presentation at this link and viewing the Powerpoint overview at this link.

Watch for information on the availability of sand and sandbags in the coming week to two weeks as the forecast becomes more settled.

03/15/23
Davenport is preparing the community to be ready and resilient to potential spring flooding based on the National Weather Service’s third Spring Flood Outlook on March 9. While there is still room for change, preparations are underway following the forecast of an 80% chance for the Mississippi River to reach 18 FT, or Major Flood Stage, and a 50% chance of reaching river stage 20 FT in April.

The Mayor and Council were updated on the outlook, City preparations, participation in FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Community Rating System program, the City’s Substantial Damage Management Plan specific to properties in Special Flood Hazard Areas, and upcoming community meetings on March 14 in the effort to support a prepared community.

As we prepare to protect infrastructure and travel routes to the extent possible, The City is encouraging the community to prepare; mailing invitations to attend two community meetings focused on preparing property owners located in the riverfront floodplain for flooding. Information on resources such as sand and sandbags, flood insurance, flood forecast, mitigation, and potential recovery steps will be covered.

  • Community Meeting #1 | 4:30 p.m., Monday, March 20, Police Department Community Room
  • Community Meeting #2 | 11 a.m., Wednesday, March 22, Davenport Council Chambers

Recognizing high river levels can impact other community members, we are providing a high-level overview of what to expect should river levels begin to rise.

  • 13 FT, S Concord closures begin, gates and pumps are set in southwest Davenport
  • 14.5 FT, Marquette and River Dr impacted. The road should remain open to approx. 17.5/18 FT if there is a long duration between river stage 15 FT and 18 FT. It will close if the duration is short-term.
  • 15 FT, Credit Island closed to the public due to water over the causeway
  • 15 FT, Modern Woodmen Park wall installation begins
  • 16 FT, Riverfront Walk begins to become covered
  • Greater than 18 FT, River Dr will close between Division St and Federal. Spot locations not covered by water or barriers will be accessible using N/S streets. 
  • Measures and the length of River Dr closures increase as river levels rise above 18 FT

Temporary barriers may be necessary on River Dr between Brady and Iowa Streets. The river forecast at that time will determine how and if temporary barriers are placed to maintain access to 2nd St and the Government Bridge. At a minimum, if river levels will exceed 18 FT, the barriers will be placed in a back-to-back configuration. The higher the potential and river stage, a second barrier will be added atop the riverfront facing barriers to form an “L” shape.

Staff is monitoring conditions and looks forward to a fourth Spring Flood Outlook on March 23. Stay tuned for updates, and remember the most reliable way to stay informed of response and recovery activities is to sign-up for alerts at www.davenportiowa.com/alertiowa.

03/13/23
The National Weather Service recently released its third spring flood outlook and intends to hold a fourth outlook the week of March 20, 2023, due to the potential for major flooding. The third outlook indicated an 82% chance of reaching major flood stage, a 70% chance of reaching river stage 19 FT, and a 50% chance of reaching 20 FT river stage. Chances will increase or decrease pending on the rate of melt and precipitation in the coming weeks.

To help at-risk property owners prepare, the City is holding two informational meetings to answer questions property owners may have and discuss available resources.

  • Monday, March 20 – 4:30 p.m., Police Department Community Room, 416 N Harrison Street
  • Wednesday, March 23 – 11:00 a.m., City Hall, Council Chambers, 226 W 4th Street

Those unable to attend are encouraged to visit our website, www.beprepareddavenport.com, to learn more about available resources.

We also encourage property owners to sign-up for flood alerts at www.davenportiowa.com/alertiowa.

02/24/23
The chances to reach moderate and major flood stages have increased since the first National Weather Service spring flood outlook. During the second outlook briefing on February 23, officials are now forecasting a 50 to 75% chance of reaching moderate flood stage, 16 FT, and a 50/50 chance of reaching major flood stage, 18 FT, between late March and mid-April. 

The change in forecast is primarily due to the volume of snowfall to the north over the past few weeks. The weather service mentioned, even though the overall risk of spring flooding is well above average on the Mississippi River, this does not guarantee that high-impact flooding will occur. The severity of any flooding will be determined by future precipitation events and the rate of snowmelt in the Upper Mississippi basin in the coming weeks.

With increased chances, the City will be closely monitoring river levels and is taking appropriate preparedness actions such as exercising gates and pumps, response refresher training, and inventory of flood fighting materials such as temporary barriers, sand, and sandbags. Property owners in the floodplain are encouraged to do the same. Key preparedness tips and information can be found at www.beprepareddavenport.com. The community can also sign-up for flood alerts at www.davenportiowa.com/alertiowa.

Watch for updates in the coming weeks as conditions change and the final spring flood outlook for the season is released on March 9.

02/10/23

Our friends at the National Weather Service issued the first of three spring flood outlook briefings on February 9. With probabilities ranging, at this time, from 10 to 25% for exceeding 18 FT in April, the National Weather Service reported an average risk for reaching 15 to 16 FT based on current snow water equivalent, frost depth, soil moisture, and forecast data. Although we may see little inconvenience or challenge from the Mississippi this year, keep in mind the forecast is early. Rest assured – the City is prepared for whatever comes our way.

As a resilient community, the City is preparing for all conditions that might arise by running through seasonal flood preparation activities. And, we encourage all property owners and business managers located in the floodplain to prepare too. Property owners can find a wealth of resources at www.beprepareddavenport.com.

As we prepare, we also want to draw property and business owners' attention to FEMA’s proposed Flood Insurance Rate maps. Find details at www.beprepareddavenort.com.

In the meantime, the City has been steadfast in its efforts to implement the City’s 2021/2022 Flood Resilience study. Requiring several years to implement, here are some current updates:

  • As a priority separate from the resilience study, three projects to reduce flood risk at the regional Water Pollution Control Plant and neighboring Davenport Compost Facility are in varying stages. A southern berm is anticipated to begin construction early summer of 2023. As construction on the berm starts, the City expects to receive news on the status of a $3.8M BRIC grant that will construct a northern berm. Pending a grant application, the engineering and design of a third project to build a rail overpass and a new, higher-elevation access road to both facilities should begin this spring.
  •  Phase II, clearing and repair, on Black Hawk and Walnut Creek berm repairs is in the planning stage. Work is expected to begin in the spring of 2023. Once complete, a new maintenance schedule will be implemented.
  • The Union Station flood defense system project continues through the FEMA approval process.
  • The City plans to resubmit an $18M+ RAISE grant for storm sewer improvements, and targeted road raises that will maintain access to River Drive through river stage 17.5 feet with little to no staff intervention/response, establish a permanent flood detour to river stage 22 feet once River Drive is closed due to flood waters, and keep access to the Centennial and Government Bridges open during flood events greater than 22 feet. After submitting the grant in 2022 and making it through several rounds, the City was informed it was not approved during that grant cycle; however, reviewers provided feedback to bolster a second submission in the spring of 2023.
  • A project to perform storm sewer improvements to prevent flood waters from inundating the area of River Drive from 3rd Street to Carey Avenue and the intersection of River Drive and Marquette Street will both be released for bid in August of 2023.

Watch for updates as the National Weather Service releases its next flood forecasts.