Upper North Landing River Stormwater Master Plan

RK&K has successfully completed the Upper North Landing River Stormwater Master Plan (SWMP), a critical project commissioned by the City of Virginia Beach to address the complex challenges of one of the city’s largest basins. This area encompasses 156.84 miles of pipes, 61.89 miles of open conveyance systems, and 7,071 nodes across a 30.5-square-mile drainage basin. The project focused on identifying and resolving 358 simulated flood areas (SFAs), particularly in vulnerable regions such as road crossings and neighborhoods around Stumpy Lake.

The team utilized advanced modeling software like PCSWMM to simulate and analyze flooding scenarios. By integrating two-dimensional models with one-dimensional simulations, RK&K provided cost-effective solutions tailored to the area’s unique challenges. Future conditions, including a projected sea level rise of up to three feet and a 20% increase in rainfall, were factored into the plan. Innovative strategies, such as the installation of channel gates and large pump stations, were proposed to proactively manage flood levels before storm events.

The flat, low-lying terrain of the watershed presented significant challenges, often leading to flooding even before rain events began. RK&K’s approach ensured that roads would remain passable during a 100-year storm event, with flood depths reduced to levels safe for emergency response. Despite an aggressive timeline, the project was completed within six months, thanks to the collaboration of 13 modelers across five regional offices.

The SWMP will guide the City of Virginia Beach in prioritizing and implementing future Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) across its watersheds. The project not only addresses immediate flood management needs but also establishes RK&K as a leader in developing innovative solutions for coastal and flood-prone areas, with implications for future projects across the Hampton Roads region and beyond.