The City of Arlington’s Public Works Department Stormwater Division has officially completed the highly anticipated $2.2 million Marquis Circle Drainage Improvements project. On Sept. 11, 2026, officials marked the conclusion of this vital infrastructure initiative, a six-month endeavor launched in March 2026 to protect local residents from the persistent threat of urban flooding.
Located in West Arlington, the targeted project area is bordered by West Arkansas Lane to the north, Perkins Road to the east, Waterview Drive to the south, and Lake Arlington to the west. The comprehensive public works effort involved significantly upsizing the existing storm drainage infrastructure to capture more stormwater runoff within the city’s right-of-way.
Comprehensive Infrastructure Upgrades
In addition to the enhanced stormwater capacity, crews worked diligently to replace and rehabilitate aging sanitary sewer facilities. A key component of the upgrade involved replacing a failing storm drain outfall feeding into Lake Arlington, an essential step in maintaining the ecological and structural integrity of the local watershed.
The extensive project scope also required:
- New storm drain and sanitary sewer installations
- Strategic, limited water line relocations
- Limited asphalt paving and concrete driveway reconstruction
Strategic Investment and City Planning
This initiative directly supports the Arlington City Council’s priority to “Strengthen Our Communities.” It was executed as part of the City’s Capital Improvements Program for Stormwater for Fiscal Year 2024-2025. To fund the $2.2 million overhaul, the city utilized a combination of the Stormwater Utility Fund, the Street Maintenance Fund, alongside water and sanitary sewer bonds.
The Marquis Circle project is a localized reflection of a much broader municipal strategy. Since 2009, Arlington has invested more than $200 million in its Stormwater Capital Improvements Program. These ongoing investments encompass flood mitigation, infrastructure protection from erosion, voluntary flood buyouts, maintenance, and the integration of advanced technology assets.
Community Impact and Flood Safety Guidance
The successful completion of this project brings immediate relief to West Arlington homeowners who have historically faced drainage challenges during severe weather events. By expanding underground pipeline capacity and stabilizing the Lake Arlington outfall, the city is taking a proactive approach to climate resilience and neighborhood safety.
While the new system offers substantial protection and drastically decreases flood risks, residents should remain vigilant during unprecedented rainfall. Local authorities recommend keeping street gutters, driveway culverts, and surface grates clear of yard debris, leaves, and trash. Clogged grates can impede water flow, severely reducing the effectiveness of the newly installed systems. Homeowners are also encouraged to regularly review their flood insurance policies, as even upgraded neighborhoods can experience localized pooling during historic storms.
View the Marquis Circle Drainage Project Map Location
Learn about the City’s stormwater management initiatives
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