Merritt Invites Community to Explore What’s Ahead for Flood Mitigation on November 14th

Five years after the November 2021 flood, the City of Merritt’s Flood Mitigation Department is inviting residents, community partners and media to look ahead at the projects that will help build a safer, more resilient community.

The Stronger By Design Community Day takes place Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Claybanks RV Park.

This free event brings together project teams, engineering plans, community stories and family activities, offering residents an opportunity to see what has been accomplished and understand what comes next.

Merritt is preparing for a significant period of construction under its Flood Mitigation Plan.

The preliminary 2027-2029 construction schedule provides an early look at the anticipated timing and sequencing of funded projects.

As that work advances, residents can expect increased construction activity, traffic changes, noise and temporary access disruptions.

The November 14 event will give community members an opportunity to explore maps and engineering displays, ask questions about work near their neighbourhoods, and better understand how upcoming projects may affect daily life.

Project teams will also be available to discuss the planning, permitting and coordination required to move flood protection projects into construction. Timelines remain preliminary and may change as this work progresses.

The long-term vision extends beyond flood protection. Residents can learn about plans for river corridors, environmental restoration, walking trails and public spaces, and how these elements fit into the broader effort to strengthen Merritt’s safety and quality of life.

Event highlights in the two heated event tents include:

• Updates, maps, engineering plans and displays of future projects.
• Highlights and successes from completed projects.
• Opportunities to connect with project teams and community partners.
• A fish counter educational table.
• A screening of Episode Two of the Coldwater Stories docuseries, “5 Years,” with popcorn.
• Kids’ activities, face painting, raffles and giveaways.
• Snacks, coffee and hot chocolate.

The five-year milestone recognizes the lasting impact of the flood and the work residents, community partners and project teams have undertaken since 2021.

It also provides an opportunity to connect that progress with the decisions and construction ahead. Residents are encouraged to bring their questions, explore the plans and take part in the conversation as Merritt builds its next chapter.

For project information and updates, visit flood.merritt.ca. Event inquiries can be directed to floodmitigation@merritt.ca, or check out the active Facebook event.