East Center Avenue Stormwater Improvements

Under an on-call contract with the Town of Mooresville, Ardurra was tasked with replacing a failing culvert on East Center Avenue. Recognizing broader opportunities, Ardurra conducted a detailed hydrologic and hydraulic (H&H) analysis to assess existing conditions and model storm events. While the culvert replacement remained central to the scope, the study revealed watershed challenges beyond the original project limits.

Ardurra proposed Regenerative Stormwater Conveyance (RSC) systems, nature-based solutions that treat runoff, reduce erosion, and improve water quality along Dry Creek. The project also introduced stormwater education elements to engage residents and promote environmental stewardship, as well as potential greenway expansion and park connectivity to support recreation and mobility in the corridor.

Phase 2 of the project includes final design, permitting, and construction of the culvert and drainage improvements, stream restoration, floodplain benching, and sediment transport modeling for Dry Creek. Additional scope items include waterline replacement and pavement reduction to support long-term sustainability. The study demonstrates Ardurra's ability to turn a single infrastructure repair into a multi-benefit community asset.

Key Highlights

• Flood Resilience — Reduced flooding risk and improved infrastructure resilience by replacing a failing culvert and designing drainage improvements to accommodate storm events up to the 100-year frequency level.

• Nature-Based Stormwater Management — Applied regenerative stormwater conveyance (RSC) systems to improve water quality, reduce streambank erosion, and enhance the health of the Dry Creek watershed.

• Community Stewardship — Introduced stormwater education features that encourage environmental awareness and public engagement beyond the drainage scope.

• Recreation & Connectivity — Identified greenway expansion and park linkage opportunities, positioning the corridor as a multi-use community asset.

• Long-Term Watershed Sustainability — Advanced future stream restoration, floodplain improvements, sediment transport modeling, waterline upgrades, and pavement reduction strategies to support long-term resilience and growth.

Ardurra turned a single culvert replacement into a broader stormwater strategy for the Town of Mooresville, reducing flood risk while improving water quality along Dry Creek. The resulting plan positions East Center Avenue for long-term resilience, recreation, and community benefit as Phase 2 moves toward design and construction.