Watkins Road & New World Drive Drainage Improvements

COLUMBUS, OHIO

Watkins Road & New World Drive Drainage Improvements

Ribway was tasked with preparing a comprehensive design report and detailed construction plans and specifications to address poor drainage conditions within a 332-acre tributary area. The project aimed to enhance runoff conveyance, improve roadside infrastructure, and resolve recurring flooding issues.

Key Design Elements

Hydrologic and Hydraulic Analyses:

  • Hydrologic Computations: Conducted using the SCS TR-55 method to evaluate runoff.
  • Hydraulic Computations: Performed with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers HEC-2 model to design efficient drainage solutions.

Recommended Improvements:

  • Roadside Ditches: Approximately 6,000 linear feet, with dimensions ranging from:
    • Width: 2–6 feet.
    • Depth: 2–8 feet.
    • Cross-sections: Designed with concrete or earth bottoms and grassed side slopes for stability.
  • Culverts: Installed 2,000 linear feet of 12″ to 48″ diameter culverts to manage stormwater flow.
  • Critical Crossings:
    • Twin 48″ circular culverts and 38″ x 60″ elliptical culverts were utilized at two railroad crossings and truck entrances at the Sherwin Williams Paint Manufacturing Complex.

Additional Scope:

  • Infrastructure Relocations:
    • Relocated 1,000 linear feet of security fencing and electric gates at the Sherwin Williams Complex.
    • Relocated 1,500 linear feet of overhead lines and power poles owned by the City of Columbus Municipal Electric Light Plant (MELP).
  • Easement Acquisition: Prepared easement documents for 10 properties to secure construction access and drainage infrastructure placement.

Challenges Addressed

  • Space Constraints: Designed culverts and ditches to fit within narrow corridors near critical infrastructure, including railroad crossings and industrial entrances.
  • Coordination: Worked closely with Sherwin Williams and utility providers to minimize disruptions during construction.

Timeline

  • Design Completion: January 2002
  • Construction Completion: December 2002

Project Outcome

  • Improved stormwater management and drainage capacity for the 332-acre area.
  • Enhanced roadway infrastructure with upgraded ditches, culverts, and shoulders.
  • Successfully addressed industrial and residential drainage issues with minimal disruption to surrounding operations.