FARGO (KFGO-AM) - Work could start as early as September on a flood protection project that will surround El Zagel Golf Course in Fargo.
The earthen levee will circle the course on the north, west and south sides. Designed to protect homes in the area, it will cost $1 million. The new levee will not prevent flooding of the 9 hole golf course. An existing earthen levee on the east side of the grounds cannot not be raised because of its proximity to the Red River and overtops at a flood level of 34 feet, filling the bowl.
City engineers are working with the Park District because it's sacrificing 4 acres of the golf course for the levee. District Executive Director Roger Gress says the levees "are a must and there will be considerable savings" to the taxpayer. Another plan looked at a concrete floodwall. It would require less space but was scrapped because of the $4.9 million cost. During the dike construction, El Zagel will undergo a complete re-design and will be closed for a year. The new course will include a number of amenities for golfers and a new clubhouse. The City will re-imburse the Park District $2.5 million for the course work
The levee will require six home buyout's along 14th Avenue and the permanent closure of a stretch of the avenue that connects to Elm street. Engineers will meet with affected homeowners in coming weeks. The estimated cost of the dike is $1 million. That does not include the home acquisitions.