Current Phase: Design
Sponsor Project Manager: Haweni Gobena, Department of Transportation and Environmental Services
Managing Project Manager: Alex Haptemariam, Department of Project Implementation
Project Description
The Eisenhower Culverts Improvement Project aims to address the deterioration of the existing galvanized corrugated metal pipe arches that serve as critical stormwater discharge conduits from Lake Cook to Cameron Run.
The project seeks to repair or replace these culverts to provide reliable drainage, mitigate potential flooding risks, and protect the surrounding environment, including the vegetated outfall buffer near Cameron Run Regional Park. The goal of the project is to enhance the culverts' structural integrity and functionality, supporting long-term stormwater management for the City of Alexandria.
Progress Update
June 2025
The City of Alexandria conducted detailed inspections and a structural condition assessment of the Eisenhower Culvert to evaluate its condition, identify deficiencies, and recommend repair strategies. The assessment found moderate deteriorations due to aging, including corrosion, minor deformation, and sediment buildup. While the culvert remains functional, rehabilitation is recommended to ensure continued performance.
With the planning phase now complete, the project has advanced into the design phase. On May 15, 2025, the City hosted a public meeting to introduce the project team, share project goals, and outline the timeline. A total of 227 invitation letters were distributed to nearby residents and homeowners' associations in advance of the meeting.
The City has proposed a combination or rehabilitation methods to address the current deterioration, enhance stormwater function, and help ensure the culvert remains safe, reliable, and effective. The planned improvements will also reduce long-term maintenance needs, support flood protection, and strengthen overall infrastructure resilience for the City of Alexandria.
Project Funding
Total Project Budget: $2,126,386
Planning: $50,600
Design: $345,513
Construction: $1,730,273
Project Schedule
Planning: January 2024 - Fall 2025
Design: Fall 2025 - Summer 2026
Construction: Summer 2026 - Summer 2028
Planning Phase
Planning Overview
The City of Alexandria plans to repair the existing galvanized corrugated metal pipe arches at the Eisenhower culverts, which serve as discharge point for Lake Cook, allowing water to flow under Eisenhower Avenue into Cameron Run. These culverts are situated between Eisenhower Avenue and Lake Cook, near Cameron Run Regional Park.
The culverts are in poor condition, particularly at the pipe wall-invert interface. Severe corrosion, section loss, scouring, and undermining have been observed, with significant deterioration at the outfall. Additionally, debris buildup, vegetation, and sediment are obstructing the inlet, whole asphalt lining failures, cracks, exposed metal, and gaps between pipe sections further compromise the structure.
To address these concerns, the City has approved a proposal for a structural consultant to conduct a structural assessment (SCA) for the Eisenhower Culverts Improvement Project. The assessment will evaluate the overall condition, identify deficiencies, and provide recommendations for maintenance, repairs, or replacement. The project will be funded through the Stream and Channel Maintenance Program.
Planning Public Outreach
On May 15, 2025, the City held a public meeting to present the project. Notices were sent to 227 nearby residents and HOAs.
Future outreach will be shared in advance.