The roadway between Carson City and Lake Tahoe was constructed in 1957 in preparation for the 1960 U.S. Olympics in Squaw Valley. Part of the Clear Creek Watershed, erosion has become a serious problem over the years, prompting NDOT to make some significant erosion control and stormwater improvements. James Murphy of NDOT’s Stormwater Management Program explains the benefits of the much needed project.
The project has two primary benefits: erosion and sediment control. Currently, NDOT is replacing more than 50 storm drains and drop inlets and enhancing roadside slopes and curb and gutter on U.S. 50–greatly improving drainage and controlling erosion throughout the area.
Rock lined basins are used to enhance stormwater infiltration, allowing the sediment that is transported with stormwater runoff to remain in the rock instead of in our creeks and lakes.
Since 2005, NDOT has dedicated millions of dollars to enhance U.S. 50 drainage into the Clear Creek Watershed, with approximately 20,000 feet of drainages downstream of U.S. 50 improved with earth and rock work to reduce erosion.
Rock-lined slopes also help to further prevent slope erosion when stormwater flows down embankments.
Dedicated to storm water management, NDOT also has future projects are planned to further reduce erosion, preserve water quality and the overall health of Clear Creek Watershed.
–nevadadot on YouTube
Tags: Clear Creek, Clearcreek Watershed, NDOT, Nevada, Nevada Department of Transportation, Nevada DOT, NV, stormwater
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