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Dry Creek Rehabilitation – Reno, NV

Project Overview

J-U-B ENGINEERS partnered with the City of Reno and the Reno-Tahoe International Airport to rehabilitate an eroded section of Dry Creek. The goal was to restore drainage functionality, protect critical infrastructure, and prevent further damage to Airport and City property.

Project Background and Site Conditions

The project site is located on the southeast corner of the Reno-Tahoe International Airport property, north of the Peckham Lane culverts. Originally constructed in 1978, the 2:1 earth-lined channel had suffered significant erosion and slope failure, undermining adjacent fencing and posing a serious risk of property damage. Sedimentation, debris buildup, and invasive vegetation had also reduced the channel’s flood capacity and introduced wildlife habitat within the sensitive runway protection zone.

Design and Engineering Solutions

The 1,900-linear-foot channel restoration included:

  • Slope stability analysis

  • HEC-RAS hydraulic modeling for 100-year flows (3,700 cfs)

  • Grading and riprap sizing

To stabilize the channel, the banks were regraded to a 2.25:1 slope. More than 37,000 cubic yards of material were excavated, and approximately 15,000 cubic yards of 24-inch riprap were imported to restore the channel to dimensions of 100 feet wide at the top, 25 feet wide at the flowline, and 15 feet deep. Temporary coffer dams and clean water diversions were used during construction.

Construction Challenges and Coordination

Key construction challenges included:

  • Flash flood runoff and unexpected groundwater

  • Limited site access and a tight work zone

  • Equipment height restrictions due to proximity to runways

  • Strict environmental compliance requirements

Project phasing was tightly coordinated with pre-scheduled FAA runway closures, leaving no room for delay. J-U-B and the contractor worked closely with Airport Operations staff to maintain safety and ensure timely progress.

Performance and Impact

Following completion, the restored channel was tested by atmospheric river storms and performed exactly as designed, effectively reducing flood risk and protecting adjacent infrastructure. The project delivered immediate benefits, including:

  • Improved water quality

  • Enhanced flood resilience

  • Increased safety for aircraft operations

Permitting and Compliance

The project was successfully permitted through multiple agencies, including:

  • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

  • Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

  • Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

  • Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP)

  • Washoe County

  • City of Reno

The project aligns with the City of Reno’s Strategic Plan goals for Environmental Stability and Infrastructure.

Outcome

Completed ahead of schedule and under budget, this project demonstrates J-U-B’s ability to deliver complex, multi-stakeholder infrastructure solutions with lasting community value.

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