During a recent government meeting, Pierce County officials provided an update on the Jones setback levy project, which aims to enhance flood protection along the Puyallup River. Kevin Dragon, assistant county engineer, and Ryan Miller, engineering services manager, outlined the project's timeline, funding challenges, and next steps.

The Jones setback levy project, initiated in 2016, has undergone various studies, including a feasibility study conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which concluded in early 2024. The project, originally estimated to cost between $12 million and $20 million, has seen significant cost escalations, now projected at approximately $45 million. This increase is largely attributed to hydraulic modeling that identified additional impacts on nearby levees and the need for property acquisitions.

The county's financial obligations have raised concerns, as the local share required to close the funding gap could reach $35 million—an amount not currently budgeted. Consequently, the county plans to withdraw from the Army Corps' CAP 205 program, deeming the project economically unfeasible under its current structure. Instead, officials are exploring alternative funding sources, including a federal grant through FEMA, although complications arise from the inability to combine federal funds for the same project.

Council members expressed their concerns regarding the project's timeline and funding, with some suggesting that the costs could continue to rise if not addressed promptly. The county aims to develop a new implementation plan within the next six months, focusing on stakeholder outreach and property acquisitions necessary for the project.

The meeting also touched on the importance of the Jones levy for flood protection in the city, particularly in light of recent high-water events. Officials emphasized the need for continued support from the council and the community to prioritize this critical infrastructure project, despite the financial hurdles ahead.

As the county navigates these challenges, the future of the Jones setback levy remains uncertain, with officials committed to finding viable solutions to ensure the safety and resilience of the affected communities.