Stormwater Management Overview

Wayne County’s Department of Public Services (DPS) has released a comprehensive overview of its stormwater management work across 43 communities, highlighting major improvements, increased system maintenance, and a proactive approach to reducing flooding risks.

Protecting Residents, Roads, and Neighborhoods

DPS’s mission is centered on keeping residents safe, supporting mobility, and improving quality of life. Stormwater management plays a critical role in achieving that mission. As extreme weather events and aging infrastructure place added pressure on drainage systems, DPS has expanded its maintenance and mitigation efforts to serve neighborhoods throughout the county better.


A Six-Part Strategy for Stronger Flood Protection

To manage stormwater effectively across such a large region, DPS uses a strategic, six-pronged approach:

1. Street Sweeping

Sweeping helps prevent leaves, trash, and sediment from clogging drains while also improving roadway safety and appearance.


2. Catch Basin Cleaning

Removing debris from catch basins keeps neighborhood drainage systems functioning properly, which is critical in older communities with aging infrastructure.


3. Detention Pond Maintenance

Regular cleaning and maintenance help ponds hold more stormwater during major rain events, easing pressure on roads and neighborhoods.


4. Roadside Ditching

Improving roadside ditches increases water flow, reduces pooling, and helps prevent local street flooding.


5. County Drain Maintenance

Keeping major drains clear ensures large volumes of water can move through the system efficiently.


6. Pump House Rehabilitation

Upgrading and modernizing pump houses strengthens the county’s ability to move water during severe weather.


Service Demand & Impact: 2020–2025

Stormwater-related requests continue to rise. Between 2020 and 2025, DPS responded to more than 5,700 stormwater service requests. The data highlights several communities experiencing some of the highest demand, including Dearborn Heights, Wayne, and Westland, areas where DPS has conducted extensive ditching, catch basin cleaning, and other mitigation work.


Some key highlights from this period include:

  • Over 1,000 catch basins cleaned
  • Major ditching projects completed across multiple high-need neighborhoods
  • Significant street sweeping and debris removal along county corridors
  • Pump station upgrades aimed at boosting reliability during heavy rain

These efforts reflect DPS’s commitment to staying ahead of stormwater issues before they become emergencies.

Building a More Resilient County

Wayne County continues to invest in long-term stormwater solutions to reduce flooding, protect homes, and keep communities moving safely. The 43-community initiative is part of the department’s larger push to modernize infrastructure, improve responsiveness, and deliver consistent, high-quality service to residents.

For more information or to submit a stormwater concern, residents can contact:

DPShelp@waynecountymi.gov | 313-224-7600