Board approves $187,770 USGS stream‑gauging agreement for 2027

The Indianapolis Board of Public Works on Sept. 23 approved a professional services agreement (SY27001) with the U.S. Geological Survey for USGS‑operated stream gauging and data collection at multiple Marion County lake and stream locations for calendar/fiscal 2027, in an amount not to exceed $187,770 and with an agreement expiration date of Sept. 30, 2027.

Stormwater Administrator Natalie Stephen said the agreement continues the city's portion of funding for USGS‑operated streamgages and 11 flood data sensors and that the data provides value for ongoing programs including Eagle Creek Reservoir and dam management, water‑quality studies supporting the stormwater NPDES permit, floodplain studies, master planning for capital improvements and real‑time flood elevation monitoring during flood conditions. “This is an agreement directly with the USGS…Project SY27001 is a yearly continuation of the city's portion of funding for '24 USGS operated stream gauging stations as well as 11 flood data sensors,” she said.

A board member asked whether USGS actually performs the monitoring; Stephen confirmed USGS performs and maintains the gauges and provides a portal for the city to read data, and that funding is shared between USGS and the city. Idris Redman moved and Sabeke Jwanza seconded approval; the chair called for 'aye' and the motion carried.

Provenance: walk‑on presentation and board vote on the SY27001 USGS agreement at the Sept. 23 meeting.