City of Hendersonville Stormwater Department Secures Nearly $2.5 Million for Improvement Projects

The City of Hendersonville Stormwater Department has secured $2,456,000 in funding to advance critical stormwater improvement projects aimed at reducing flooding and strengthening community resilience.   

Of the total award, $2 million was provided through the NC Emergency Management Disaster and Relief & Mitigation Fund. An additional $456,000 was awarded through the NC Flood Resilience Blueprint. 

“This funding is going to be used to implement critical stormwater improvements in both the Wash Creek watershed and lower Mud Creek,” said Mike Huffman, Stormwater Director with the City of Hendersonville. “These projects reflect Hendersonville’s commitment to proactive flood mitigation, infrastructure resilience, and long-term community safety.” 

Wash Creek Watershed Improvements 

A total of $2 million from the NC Emergency Management Disaster Relief & Mitigation Fund, along with $356,000 from the NC Flood Resilience Blueprint, will support improvements within the Wash Creek watershed. The project will replace aging and undersized stormwater infrastructure that has contributed to recurring and public safety concerns during heavy rainfall events.  

Planned upgrades include upsizing and relocating portions of the existing storm drainage system into the public right-of-way, allowing for long-term City maintenance. By increasing system capacity to meet higher design standards, the improvements are expected to reduce flood frequency and depth, improve roadway safety, and ensure more reliable access for residents and emergency services. 

The Wash Creek project was identified as a top priority in the City’s Comprehensive Stormwater Master Plan and represents a strategic investment in long-term infrastructure resilience. 

Lower Mud Creek Floodplain Restoration 

The remaining $100,000 from the NC Flood Resilience Blueprint will support the ongoing floodplain restoration efforts along lower Mud Creek on the southside of Hendersonville. 

This initiative focuses on reducing flooding while restoring natural floodplain functions. Project components include reconnecting floodplains, restoring more than 2,000 linear feet of source streams, stabilizing 1,500 linear feet of Mud Creek streambank, and enhancing approximately 20 acres of wetlands and riparian areas. 

These improvements will increase floodwater storage capacity, reduce chronic flooding in nearby commercial and residential areas, and improve water quality by addressing stormwater runoff and loss of wildlife habitats. Conservation easements will ensure long-term protection of the restored areas while allowing for green space development and improved community connectivity. 

Together, these projects demonstrate the City’s continued dedication to environmental stewardship, proactive stormwater management, and climate resilience.