City Council Approves Controversial Maple Diversion Project Plan

During a recent city council meeting, officials discussed the proposed Maple Diversion Project, which aims to enhance flood protection for Minot while necessitating the acquisition of 11 additional properties. The project, which has been in development for nearly six years, is a collaborative effort involving multiple stakeholders, including railroad entities and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Ryan Ackerman, representing the Cirrus River Joint Board, presented the project's alignment and its implications. He emphasized the social impact of the property acquisitions, acknowledging the challenges faced by affected residents. The project is estimated to cost $95 million, with approximately $61.5 million secured from federal funding, awarded in January 2022. The remaining costs will be shared between state and local sources.

The council was informed that the project would significantly reduce the number of Minot Valley residents in the regulatory floodplain, with about 60% expected to be removed once the first phase is completed. The timeline for construction is projected to begin in 2026, allowing affected homeowners a year and a half to two years to relocate.

Concerns were raised by council members regarding the impact on residents and the potential for property values to be affected during the acquisition process. The city plans to conduct fair market appraisals to determine compensation for the properties, ensuring that offers reflect current market conditions rather than assessed values.

The meeting also included a public hearing where residents voiced their concerns about traffic patterns and the implications of the project on their neighborhoods. The council is expected to vote on the proposed alignment and property acquisitions in the coming sessions, with the hope of moving forward efficiently while addressing community concerns.