Richmond activates Dock Street floodwall due to heavy rainfall

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The City of Richmond's Department of Public Utilities (DPU) has announced that the Dock Street floodwall will be activated as a cautionary response to the weekend's heavy rainfall. According to a release from city officials on Monday, Feb. 17, Dock Street will be closed between 17th and 21st Street while the floodwall is in effect. Detours will be in place until the water recedes and the floodwall is deactivated. In addition to the floodwall being activated, DPU has closed Bosher's Dam and several of the floodwall's interior gates. "DPU actively cleans storm drains in areas prone to flooding and are always prepared to respond to flooded inlets or drain," the city's release reads. "Residents and businesses are also encouraged to assist by keeping drains free of debris such as trash, sediment, cigarette butts, leaves, and lawn clippings. Inlets that are full of trash have reduced capacity to take the stormwater away and can cause flooding, driving hazards, and property damage even during small rain events." DPU has also closed parking areas at Pony Pasture and Huguenot Flatwater through Tuesday. The Belle Isle service access road next to Hollywood Rapids has also been closed. For more information on Richmond's floodplain management, visit the city website.