The Town of Rockland is studying ways to reduce flooding in Livingston Manor following a July storm that sent waterways over their banks, flooded roads and businesses, and forced the evacuation of five residents.

Town Supervisor Rob Eggleton says the work is part of the state’s Resilient NY program, funded through the state Department of Environmental Conservation. The state hired consulting firm SLR to analyze historical flooding in the town, dating back to the late 1800s.

“We’re never going to stop the flooding, but we want to be able to reduce the flooding as much as possible,” Eggleton said.

One priority is lowering flood levels along Main Street in Livingston Manor, where the Willowemoc Creek and Little Beaverkill converge. Eggleton says consultants are examining whether widening streambanks and slowing water flow could help reduce flooding.

The town has also been working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for about a decade. One potential solution involves widening bridges in the village or installing additional pipes to allow more water to pass through.

Other projects under consideration include restoring a floodplain near the former chicken plant property, just beyond the Livingston Manor High School. Trout Unlimited is pursuing a $4.5 million grant for work in that area, Eggleton said.

The town is also exploring opportunities to widen the Willowemoc’s stream corridor and stabilize eroding banks.

The town expects a final analysis in December identifying potential mitigation projects and additional grant opportunities. Officials will then have to prioritize projects and pursue funding.

The town will discuss the flood studies, potential projects and funding opportunities at a public meeting Friday, November 13, at 5:30 p.m. at the Roscoe Branch of the Western Sullivan Public Library, 85 Highland Avenue.