Roseau flood prevention project gets under way

ROSEAU, Minn. – Work crews broke ground Monday on a $30 million project that’s expected to provide long-term flood protection, peace of mind and economic stability to the northern Minnesota community of Roseau.

A 2002 flood in Roseau caused more than $100 million in damage, which prompted plans for a flood diversion channel.

Mayor Jeff Pelowski says economic development is challenging enough in a small town, but when you’re dealing with flooding every other year, it makes it more difficult.

The federal government is funding about 60 percent of the project, which is expected to take two years to complete.

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