Press Releases

WASHINGTON—The U.S. Senate passed H.R. 3383 today, a bill to designate the Wichita-Valley Center Flood Control Project as the "M.S. 'Mitch' Mitchell Floodway". Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) introduced the legislation in the U.S. House, which passed the bill in September.

“Today’s action by the Senate sends this bill to President Trump’s desk and puts us one step closer to permanently honoring Mitch Mitchell for his lasting contributions to our community,” said Rep. Ron Estes. “The Wichita-Valley Center Flood Control Project he developed to reduce flood waters in Sedgwick County has saved lives, prevented millions of dollars of property damage, and allowed for expanded growth and opportunities. I want to thank my colleagues in Congress, especially Rep. Bill Shuster and Sen. Jerry Moran, for helping pass this bill to provide this fitting tribute to ‘Big Ditch Mitch’ and his record of public service.”

“A longstanding pillar of the Wichita community and a talented engineer from Wichita State University, Mr. Mitchell’s work helped save hundreds of homes and millions of dollars in flood damage,” said Sen. Jerry Moran. “I am pleased we were able to get this legislation honoring his legacy across the finish line prior to the end of the 115th Congress.”

M.S. Mitchell served Sedgwick County and the City of Wichita as the Flood Control and Maintenance Supervisor for the City Council Flood Control Office from 1958-63. Under his supervision, the Wichita-Valley Center Flood Control project was completed to divert excess water around the city of Wichita. The construction of this project spanned ten years and included an acquisition of rights of way, relocation of utility lines and the rerouting of railroads. This was one of the largest diversion projects of its time.

Mitch Mitchell passed away on March 11, 2017, at the age of 91 years old.

Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas’ 4th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives. He serves on the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, and the House Committee on Homeland Security.