Bromley Flood 1997
The 1997 flood did considerable damage to the City of Bromley. On March 3, 1997, the Ohio River spilled over its banks blocking Route 8 between Bromley and Ludlow. By March 5, things had progressively become worse. Pike Street was completely underwater water. Also underwater were the intersections at Pleasant and Pike and Pleasant and Shelby. Muddy water was running through the city park and the Pleasant View Baptist Church. The only way in and out of Bromley was by Highwater Road to Villa Hills. Almost 100 families in Bromley were driven from their homes.
As the floodwaters continue to rise, members of the Bromley Fire Department patrolled the city in a small boat dubbed the “minnow.” Residents in the flooded areas were encouraged to leave their property. Other members began collecting food, clothing and cleaning supplies at the firehouse. Three residents who had been forced from their homes had taken up residence in the city hall. Many others were given shelter by the Benedictine Sisters at Villa Madonna Academy in Villa Hills.
The Ohio River finally crested at 64.7’on March 7, 1997. By this time, 133 structures were located in the flood zone. Work to cleanup the city began as soon as the water receded. Several hundred meals were served at the Bromley Firehouse under the guidance of the Salvation Army. The cleanup lasted well into April 1997.
Kentucky Post, March 4, 1997, p. 11, March 5, 1997, p. 3K, March 6, 1997, p. 3K, March 7, 1997, p. 1K, March 8, 1997, p. 2K, March 11, 1997, p. 3K and March 15, 1997, p. 5K.
