Liberty Wastewater Treatment Plant Protected by New Floodwall

The Liberty Wastewater Treatment Plant has flooded several times over the last few years. In response, HR Green assisted the City in applying for a FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) to install a combination of floodwall and earthen embankments, and to replace a 5,300-foot long outfall pipe.

In this fast-tracked project, the application was submitted then awarded in approximately four months, making it one of the first awarded in the state. Final designs were completed in 6 months and included significant coordination to obtain permitting including required permits with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR), Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), and private utilities (AT&T, Kinder-Morgan, Finley, and CenterPoint).

In addition, a wetlands delineation was completed and design changes were made that impacted the location of the outfall and the location (and quantities) of the earthen embankments and floodwalls at the WWTP. The construction phase of the project was awarded in January 2021 and the project is substantially complete.

The floodwall and earthen embankments will hold back future floodwaters surrounding the Liberty Wastewater Treatment Plant, preventing potential treatment disruptions and adjacent water contamination. This project is a great example of how we work closely with our clients to get the best possible outcome, understand the importance of quick turnaround, all while maintaining quality.