ROANOKE (WSLS 10) - Improvements were made to reduce the likelihood of flooding around the Roanoke River after the flood of 1985.
The flood reduction project was constructed between 2004 to 2012. It's designed to make it so more water can flow down the river without it overflowing.
"It doesn't save us from all flood so if people are in a flood prone area needs to be aware of that risk and have a plan and implement it," says Phil Schirmer, city engineer.
The river's capacity is just around 16.5 feet and Schirmer says it's worked well these past few years. However if the weather takes a turn for the worst the river will not be able to hold.
Teal Batson who owns Green Goat restaurant is concerned, but believes she may be ready in case of another big flood.
She has flood vents around the building and put all the electrical wiring on the top of the building to avoid flood waters.