GILBERT, AZ — The town of Gilbert says it’s studying nearly two miles of Sonoqui Wash after the town says sediment buildup and parts of the channel that are shallow, undefined or blocked can contribute to flooding and erosion during heavy storms.
Read more House passes bill to make Daylight Saving Time permanent
The town says the study will track how water moves through the wash and help determine what improvements could reduce future flooding and improve safety.
Just south of the study area, resident Michele Sanders says she has seen how quickly conditions can change when the rain starts.
“People don’t realize how quick the water comes like a raging river, and then it ends up here, and it’s too late. People don’t know that their children are in danger when that happens,” Sanders said.
Read more US reinstates Iranian blockade in the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing strikes
Sanders says she has also watched the wash change over the years, saying erosion has created safety concerns in the area.
“It’s just a really dangerous situation for anybody,” Sanders said.
The town says the study will also account for future stormwater flows identified in a regional drainage study, helping ensure the wash has enough capacity for future conditions.
The findings will help Gilbert identify specific problem areas and guide future decisions about improvements along Sonoqui Wash.
Read more Subaru issues recall for 541,000 SUVs over label with incorrect weight rating
“It’s a good thing to help, maybe save a life or two,” Sanders concluded.
