America's River III: Bee Branch Creek Restoration

We believe that out of great challenges, we can create great opportunities. Throughout the past fifteen years record-setting rain has overwhelmed the North End neighborhoods of Dubuque. Between 1999 and 2011, six Presidential Disaster Declarations were issued with total damage estimates of almost $70 million. After years of community input, study and planning, the City embarked upon a course of action to prevent the significant and frequent flash flooding experienced in the Bee Branch Watershed.

Recommended by citizens and designed with resident input, the Bee Branch Creek Restoration is at the heart of the Bee Branch Watershed Flood Mitigation Project. Replacing almost one-mile of the buried Bee Branch storm sewer with the restored creek and floodplain protects over 1,373 homes and businesses from future flooding while creating a beautiful linear park. Amenities now stretch from the heart of Dubuque to the Mississippi River at Chaplain Schmitt Island including a multi-use trail, scenic overlooks, an amphitheater, benches, lighting, rest areas, a community orchard, a bioswale board walk, and a floating island system.

Through the America’s River III campaign the general public and private sector has the opportunity to create lasting legacy — to honor family, friends, and neighbors in a meaningful and visible way. We invite you to contribute to the campaign by naming a bench, tree, brick paver, or other amenity for a family member, friend, or business. Your contribution to the campaign will help ensure this flood mitigation project continues to support sustainable neighborhoods and enhanced quality of life for Dubuque and Iowa.

Thank you for your consideration and support.