Solution Nears on Brays Bayou Plan

After 18 months of developing and analyzing scenarios, LJA and Harris County Flood Control District are closing in on a solution to reduce flooding on a 21-mile stretch of Brays Bayou.

LJA is acting as prime contractor on the project, significant in that it was one of the first eight federal flood control assignments throughout the United States undertaken by local flood control agencies under the new Section 211(f) federal program. In previous times, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers would have taken the lead; under this partnership, HCFCD has primary authority, with the Corps acting in a review capacity using federal criteria.

According to David Winslow, LJA Senior Consultant and Project Manager, construction for the project is currently estimated in the $200 million range. Alternatives under consideration include expanding storm water detention capacity, replacing bridges and constructing channel modifications.

Working very closely with HCFCD staff on a tight schedule, LJA's responsibilities have included an engineering analysis of each alternative, including its hydrologic effectiveness, concept design and appearance as well as capital and O&M costs. LJA has also addressed implementation, recreation and other improvement issues, including construction phasing. LJA is also directing the work performed by three other engineering companies on this project.

"After extensive engineering, economics, and environmental analysis, the Brays Bayou Project Team, led by LJA, has developed a viable, long-term plan to reduce flooding along Brays Bayou," stated Burton Johnson, Project Manager, Harris County Flood Control District.