Construction is scheduled to begin on November 3 for a new storm drain system aimed at improving stormwater collection and reducing flooding near the border of Scottsdale and Tempe. The project targets an area that has been identified as having moderate flood risk, with several structures vulnerable during significant rain events. Residents in the vicinity have previously experienced local flooding and property damage.
The construction will take place along Roosevelt Street and Continental Drive, starting at Miller Road and extending westward to 68th Street/College Avenue. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the cities of Scottsdale, Tempe, and the Flood Control District of Maricopa County.
The planned infrastructure includes extending an existing 78-inch storm drain that directs water toward Indian Bend Wash. Stormwater will be collected from streets north of Roosevelt Street and Continental Drive, which is expected to improve drainage conditions for areas further south. The project involves installing approximately 7,500 linear feet of storm drain, 1,200 linear feet of lateral connection pipes, additional lateral drains along 74th Street, 70th Street, and 68th Street, as well as curb inlet catch basins and manholes.
Completion is anticipated by December 2026. The total cost for the project is estimated at $13 million. Funding will come from multiple sources: the Flood Control District of Maricopa County will provide $8.45 million (65%), while both Scottsdale and Tempe will each contribute $2.275 million (17.5%). Tempe will act as the lead agency overseeing the work.
More details about this project are available on Tempe’s Water Project Updates webpage.
