Wyandotte High/Lombardy Drive Green Infrastructure Project

Construction will take place in the area between North 20^th Street and Westview Drive, from Armstrong Avenue to Elizabeth Avenue.

Work will include installing about 1,200 feet of new storm sewer pipes, new manholes, nine curb inlets to collect street runoff, and two stormwater basins with plants that help filter water.

The Lombardy Drive project will cost about $4.5 million. Funding comes from two sources:

• American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA): $2,535,831.39
• Sewer User Fund: $1,916,915.36

Construction is expected to begin in March 2025 and finish by September 30, 2025. The project was bid out in December 2024.

Yes. Some roads and lanes will close during construction. Once the contractor provides traffic control plans, we’ll post updates here with details about which areas are affected and when.

Green infrastructure uses nature-based solutions, like plants, soil, and special paving materials, to manage rain where it falls. These systems help soak up or store stormwater so it doesn't overwhelm the sewer system or pollute local waterways.

Green infrastructure also supports wildlife, reduces flooding, and improves air and water quality. It brings added environmental, health, and economic benefits to the community. For this project, we’re using dry detention basins. These are shallow areas that fill with water during a storm and slowly drain within 24 to 48 hours.

The dry detention basins in this project will include landscaping designed to be both functional and attractive. The Unified Government’s horticulturist helped select native and drought-tolerant plants that stabilize the soil, require less maintenance, and support pollinators and local wildlife.

These plants help slow and filter stormwater, which improves water quality before it reaches streams or rivers. The landscaping also follows updated stormwater design standards to make sure it works as part of the green infrastructure system.

By using sustainable landscaping, this project helps manage runoff while creating a greener, more welcoming space for the community.

Photograph 1: Trash and Vegetation Cleanup (May 28, 2025)
This area was used for illegal dumping for many years. It became filled with trash and overgrown with invasive plants. The project team cleared the debris and thick overgrowth, helping to restore the site and improve how it looks. Cleaning up the area also helps protect the environment and public health. The remaining tires will be removed soon.

Photograph 2: Construction Progress in North Basin (May 28, 2025)
Construction is underway on the north detention basin. Crews from Amino Brothers are installing a new storm inlet near Orient Drive to help collect rainwater. They are also shaping the basin’s slopes and bottom to support drainage, and building a retaining wall along the north side to protect nearby land.

Photograph 3: North Basin Stabilization (May 28, 2025)
The upper slopes of the north basin have been reinforced to keep the structure safe and stable during construction.

Work in the South Basin is currently on hold. So far, $811,065.40 in ARPA funding has been spent on the project.

The remaining $1,724,765.99 in ARPA funds will be used to finish construction in the North Basin and stabilize the South Basin. The next steps for the project depend on receiving additional funding.