Water Utility

Update from Mayor Soglin’s Press Conference Today

While things seem calm, and we have dodged two potential rain events, residents and businesses on the isthmus should not get complacent. We know that just north of here between 5 and 10 inches of rain fell last night. Had that rain fallen here, we would be looking at a totally different situation today.

We are facing an additional rain event this evening into tomorrow. City staff continue to monitor with the National Weather Service. Regardless of the weather, Dane County Lakes Management staff will continue to adjust the level of Lake Mendota. There is a likely increase in discharge rate at the Tenney dam tomorrow and we know an increase will result in more flooding along the Yahara River, Lake Monona and Starkweather Creek. When this happens, keep in mind, and let your neighbors know, this is planned and not a reason to panic.

The level of Lake Mendota, is being managed by Dane County, and staff there continue to do a remarkable job. The Tenney lock is in no danger of failing, the water is being strategically released to prevent that from happening.

While the county is continuing to lower the level of Lake Mendota staff are also cutting weeds to facilitate a quicker flow from Monona and that is effective.

Complete flooding information and updates, including road closures is at http://www.cityofmadison.com/flooding

Please continue to prepare

• The city has 4,000 to 5,000 sandbags filled and ready for distribution. Staff worked throughout the night to reach that level.
• Continue to make sure you have items of value removed from lower levels of your home or business
• Don’t park your vehicle in low areas-city ramps will accommodate vehicles overnight from 9:00 pm - 7:00 am for no charge through Saturday morning.

Road Closures

• One inbound land of John Nolen Drive is closed through Friday, during non-peak hours, 9:00 am - 3:00 pm. Crews are stabilizing the shore of Lake Monona to protect the integrity of the bike path and John Nolen Drive.
• All other road closures remain the same
• East Johnson closed from N. First to N. Baldwin St.
• East Main Street between Northern Court and the Yahara River
• Marston Ave between E. Johnson and Sherman Ave
• 700 and 800 blocks of E Mifflin St

Reminders

• Stay out of flood waters - they are not safe
• Don’t drown, turn around.

City staff are in constant communication with organizers of upcoming events in the City and decisions will be made on scheduling, alerts to participants, traffic issue and collaborative communication.

Mayor Soglin will hold another press conference at 11:00 am Wednesday, Aug. 29 in the 2nd Floor Conference Room at Water Utility, 119 East Olin Avenue.