The City of Alexandria, along with the Rapides Parish Gravity Drainage District No. 1 and the Rapides Parish Police Jury, completed the Horseshoe Canal Drainage and Flood Control Project, the first initiative of the Louisiana Watershed Initiative and one of 13 flood mitigation projects occurring in the state. 

This project, like the other mitigation projects underway in the state, is designed to improve water flow, reduce flooding and enhance local infrastructure. The intention is that these efforts will help the area to better withstand storms and heavy rainfall. It is one part of the state’s overall plan to enhance flood resilience and protect communities.

“This project, known as the Canal Hardening Project, began around 20 years ago following a study,” said Ralph Covington, President of the Gravity Drainage District No. 1. “Today, we celebrate the completion of this effort. We hope to see the benefits of this work as it greatly improves drainage and reduces flooding in this area.”

Covington explained that despite some flooding over the weekend, the new system definitely had a positive impact on the situation. He added, “The new initiative allowed water to flow more easily, showing that the project is already making a difference.”