About the Project
The primary objective is to minimize the impact of flooding related to the backwater created where Clear Creek and the Puyallup River meet. The project also provides refuge and habitat for juvenile salmon and other associated wildlife in the lower Puyallup River system. The lower Puyallup River and Clear Creek combined floodplain is currently managed by two flood/tide gates underneath State Route 167/River Road. The project will reconnect 250-590 acres of floodplain. The project will allow the floodplain to react more naturally with the creek and the river.
The project will relieve flooding within the Riverside area of Pierce County during high flows on the Puyallup River. This will prevent the Puyallup River and Clear Creek from flooding lowlands behind the levee. Approximately 400 acres of farmland, commercial and residential properties are impacted.
This project is expected to take at least 10 years to complete. The first phase will focus on property acquisitions from willing sellers in the area. Once property acquisitions are completed, a new levee system to protect infrastructure outside of the property purchase area will be constructed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear Creek Floodway Fact Sheet
Project Goals:
- Develop a collaborative, non-mechanical, multi-benefit solution to flooding in the Clear Creek floodplain.
- Establish the best habitat potential for the floodplain
- Establish the best use for agriculture in the floodplain
- Continue stakeholder involvement in the long term
Clear Creek Strategy Plan
The Clear Creek Strategy Plan is in the process of being developed. The strategy plan will provide the project with a framework based on current circumstances and the goals of the project.
Interested Seller Notification
Pierce County uses grant dollars to purchase properties in the project area from willing sellers. An independent appraiser determines the fair-market value of the property.
If you have property in the Clear Creek-Riverside area and are interested in being considered for purchase by Pierce County, complete this
form and send it to:
Pierce County Planning and Public Works
Attn: Helmut Schmidt
2702 S. 42nd Street, Suite 201
Tacoma, WA 98409
or email the document to
Helmut Schmidt
Related
Clear Creek Floodgate Restoration
Clear Creek Habitat Restoration