HOUSTON, TX - APRIL 21, 2022 - The Harris County Flood Control District was approved for a $2.2 million grant from the Texas Water Development Board’s (TWDB) Flood Infrastructure Fund program for Phase 2 of the Lauder Stormwater Detention Basin project (Bond ID C-34), a flood risk reduction project in the Greens Bayou watershed.
“We are extremely thankful for this funding and for the support of the Texas Water Development Board to improve flood resilience for residents in the Greens Bayou Watershed,” said Tina Petersen, Harris County Flood Control District Executive Director.
The Lauder Stormwater Detention Basin project includes a two-phase stormwater detention basin to reduce the risk of flooding in the mid-reach stretch of Greens Bayou by taking in excess stormwater during heavy rain events and then releasing it slowly back to the channel when the threat of flooding has passed.
Phase 1 included a wet-bottom stormwater detention basin, with a permanent pool, island, and features designed to improve stormwater quality. Phase 2 will be a dry bottom stormwater detention basin with opportunities for recreational development by other entities.
“Reducing chronic flooding has been my main priority since taking office. This Lauder Stormwater Detention Basin project represents the kind of progress residents expect and need to see, and we are grateful for the Texas Water Development Board’s support in making this critical project possible,” said Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia.
“Making Harris County businesses and homeowners safer from flood events requires a commitment to make smart investments, like the TWDB’s. If we want to see our community thrive, we have to ensure families and companies can confidently grow in areas where their businesses and homes are free from flood fears,” he continued.
The TWDB Flood Infrastructure Fund was established by the Texas Legislature and approved by voters in 2019 through a constitutional amendment to provide grants and loans for flood control, flood mitigation and drainage projects.
“We’re proud to provide grant funding for this much-needed project, which has been a team effort, and to partner with our good friends at the Harris County Flood Control District. The TWDB works diligently to help communities across the state, but it’s especially fulfilling to be a partner in helping an area see some relief after experiencing repetitive flooding,” said TWDB Chairwoman Brooke Paup.
The two basin phases are anticipated to hold at least 1,200 acre-feet, or 391 million gallons, of excess stormwater that might otherwise flood homes and businesses. Phase 1 was completed last fall. The project will achieve a 10-year system capacity and is part of the overall Greens Bayou Mid-Reach Program which, when complete, is estimated to reduce the risk of flooding for more than 4,500 structures in the 100-year floodplain along the mainstem of Greens Bayou. For more information on the Lauder Stormwater Detention Basin Bond Project, visit www.hcfcd.org/C34.