Drainage Cleanup After 2016 Flood | Baton Rouge News

Since the 2016 flood, East Baton Rouge Parish has been on a massive cleanup mission—pulling thousands of tons of debris like refrigerators and tires from rivers and canals, clearing pipes, digging ditches, and upgrading storm drains with American Rescue Plan funds. Focused on preparing for a rare “one-thousand-year flood,” crews are tackling key waterways including Jones Creek and Bayou Fountain, even collaborating with neighboring parishes on Bayou Manchac. Officials like Director Fred Raiford reveal shocking finds—including over a thousand refrigerators and tire piles bigger than any dealership—highlighting how dumping grounds have clogged drainage systems. They’re also building retention areas to manage heavy rainwater, using hazard mitigation funds secured after the 2016 disaster. A recent rain event went smoothly, hinting at progress—but Raiford warns this is ongoing work. Over $150 million in projects await approval, with many ready to start once funded. Continuous maintenance is critical to avoiding future flooding disasters. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/f032aee1233bac34