Challenge
The Buffalo Bayou watershed area, located west of Interstate 610 and north of Interstate 69, has faced severe flooding during major storm events. This low-to-moderate income (LMI) region, primarily reliant on aging underground drainage systems with limited open channels, has experienced significant property damage. A comprehensive flood mitigation solution was needed to protect residents and infrastructure from future storm events.
Solution
Our team conducted a proof-of-concept study to explore advanced flood mitigation strategies for the St. George Place Redevelopment Authority (TIRZ 1). The study focused on developing a gravity-flow inverted siphon stormwater tunnel system combined with surface conveyance improvements. Key actions included:
- Developed a complex two-dimensional (2D) stormwater model to simulate the performance of drainage systems under 2, 10, 25, and 100-year storm events.
- Proposed a gravity-flow stormwater tunnel fed by large box culverts to enhance water conveyance capacity and reduce flood risk.
- Analyzed multiple route options, intake, and outlet locations to determine the most effective and feasible flood mitigation measures.
- Conducted the study in partnership with the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) and the City of Houston, leveraging findings from HCFCD’s Phase 1 Tunnel study to inform planning and design efforts.
Benefit
By enhancing drainage capacity with a gravity-flow tunnel system and large box culverts, the region will gain increased resilience to storm events. The proposed stormwater improvements will significantly reduce flood damage for this vulnerable area.
