Cranston Installs New Flood Warning System at Oaklawn and Wilbur Avenue

CRANSTON, RI—A new flood detection and warning system has been installed at the intersection of Oaklawn and Wilbur Avenues in the hopes of preventing another motorist from getting stranded during severe rain events. According to Mayor Fung's office, the system, which cost $29,000, is solar powered and consists of a box with a sensor that detects when the lowest point of Wilbur Avenue is flooded, activating a system of flashing LED lights.

The area is prone to flooding during periods of heavy rain, the mayor's office said. The drainage system occasionally is overwhelmed as nearby Meshanticut Brook fills with water and the road can flood by a foot of water or more.

The dip in the road under the railroad bridge can trick drivers into thinking the water’s depth is much lower, resulting in numerous cases of stranded motorists facing severe damage to their car and often necessitating an emergency response.

“This unique system is a cost-effective way to improve public safety and will help ensure people think twice before driving into floodwaters,” said Cranston Mayor Allan W. Fung. “I’m glad the city has taken this step to address a problem that has plagued the Oaklawn neighborhood and affected numerous drivers.”

The system is the first such system to be installed in Rhode Island. It was purchased from Ocean State Signal, a Rhode Island company. The mayor budgeted $50,000 for the project in the current fiscal year.

“While this is not a permanent solution to stop all flooding in this problem area, it’s the right thing to do, right now, with limited impact on taxpayers,” Mayor Fung continued. “I want to prevent people from suffering not just embarrassment and property damage, but also potential injury. Floodwaters are dangerous at any depth.”

The plan was developed in-house. Public Works Director Ken Mason and Public Works Assistant Steve Mulcahy designed the system and approached Ocean State Signal to price out the necessary equipment. The system was installed by Rossi Electric of Cranston.

The system will not replace existing measures to warn drivers of flooding conditions. When heavy rains are expected, the Public Works department deploys traffic barrels along the side of the road. In the event the drainage system begins to back up and flood the road, city crews or police officers move the barrels around the floodwaters to warn drivers.

“The flashing lights and highly visible signs send a strong message and will compliment our efforts to keep people safe,” Mayor Fung concluded.