Repairs to begin at three locations damaged by flood

The city is dipping into its reserves for $750,000 to start the process of repairing flood damage in three locations around Penticton.

Council approved the required budget amendment at Tuesday’s meeting.

Three flood events this spring on Carmi Road, Campbell Mountain and Ellis Creek caused by high rainfall led to heavy erosion issues on Carmi Road, pooling and sinkholes around Campbell Mountain and Naramata Road, and debris and damage in Ellis Creek.

The costs to address the Carmi Road issues are estimated at $45,000, with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure indicating it is willing to discuss sharing the cost of repairs.

And the Regional District Okanagan-Similkameen has indicated it is willing to cost share the estimated $50,000 needed in the Campbell Mountain area to analyze the problem and come up with a repair plan.

Ellis Creek’s problems go back to 2017, when flooding brought material downstream and deposited it in bridges and culverts at Atkinson Street and Main Street.

Staff intends to spend $400,000 on an Ellis Creek master plan, and another $250,000 for actual debris removal.

City engineer Ian Chapman said staff is also trying to secure disaster assistance from the B.C. government to offset some of the costs.