In 2015, the Stormwater Division of the Public Works Department began to study watersheds within Town limits. The goal of these studies is to recommend and prioritize projects that will control existing flooding, stabilize streams, and improve overall water quality.

The Booker Creek Watershed has a drainage area of approximately 6.3 square miles and includes 5 subwatersheds:

• Lower Booker Creek,
• Booker Headwaters,
• Crow Branch,
• Cedar Fork, and
• Eastwood Lake.

The Lower Booker Creek Subwatershed Study identified $22 million in needed capital projects to improve flooding and water quality. The Council approved using the 2015 Stormwater bonds of $5.9 million for the top priority projects identified in the report. The top projects identified are:

1. Elliott Road Flood Storage,
2. Red Bud Flood Storage,
3. Piney Mountain Road Flood Storage,
4. Booker Creek Road Pipe System, and
5. Honeysuckle Road Culvert.

Also called the Booker Creek Basin Park, the Elliott Road Flood Storage Project on Booker Creek will help manage flooding for most storm events. During heavy rainfalls, this project will slow down the flow of water by holding more of it in place. There will also be some park amenities, including a stream overlook, public art, and paved trails.

Want to learn more about how this project will help manage flooding in the area? Check out "Rising waters raise concerns," a radio story by UNC student journalist Alice Bennett.

While in-person events are on hold, the Town held a virtual groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the Booker Creek Basin Park on May 15 at 10 AM. The video includes messages from Mayor Pam Hemminger, Stormwater Advisory Board Chair Pamela Schultz, artist Holly Felice, and Town staff.