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.