Just in time for spring storm season, the city of Joplin now has two automated storm floodgates where previously people have been swept away and cars have been trapped due to floodwaters. KRPS’s Fred Fletcher-Fierro has more.
The new floodgates, automated gate system along Murphy Blvd. at Joplin Creek, just west of Main Street is now complete and operational at a cost of just over $186,000.
The automated gates have a sensor to detect when the water reaches a certain height which then triggers the gates to close and the signs on each side of the gates to begin flashing to alter drivers.
The system will also detect when the water falls below the flood level and will automatically open the gates. The city has partnered with key stakeholders in the area to be notified when the flood event begins and ends.
This project was funded through the Parks and Stormwater Sales Tax Program that was renewed by voters in 2021. Perhaps most importantly the new gates are located just around the corner from Dover Hill Elementary and hopefully will prevent future tragedies.
The old gates will remain in place as a backup system in case the new gates become damaged or inoperable due to a vehicle incident or other issues.
Joplin’s Public Works Director Dan Johnson said in a press release, “This automated system will make the closure of Murphy Boulevard in high water to be more efficient,”.
For 89 9 KRPS News, I’m Fred Fletcher-Fierro
