Report from the District Engineer (Odyssey Engineering Group)
PROJECTS UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Bullhead Slough Rehabilitation
The District is dredging silt out of Bullhead Slough and rehabilitating the side slopes which have eroded over time. Project includes installing ShoreSox product at the water’s edge to stabilize and prevent future erosion.
Project includes eastern and middle sections of Bullhead. Rehabilitation of the western section of Bullhead will be performed in the future with construction likely to begin in first quarter of 2021.
Contractor is substantially complete with Phase 1 rehabilitation pending final inspections.
Improvements to Raw Water Tanks at Surface Water Treatment Plant
The District is installing a floating mixer in each of the raw water storage tanks at the Surface Water Treatment Plant located off Skinner Road. The mixers create constant movement in the raw water to limit sediment from settling to the bottom of the tank. In addition, stairs and walkways are being installed as part of this project to improve operator access to the tanks.
Project is under construction. Contractor is installing catwalk to serve raw water tanks. Project expected to be complete in early December 2020.
Electrical Improvements and Generator at Water Plant No. 2
The District is updating the electrical system including installation of a new generator at water plant no. 2 (located near the elevated storage tank).
Start up test was held on Monday, October 26. Contractor is substantially complete with only minor punchlist items
North Pump Station Improvements
The District is improving the access to the north pump station by adjusting the headwall and grading modifications. Project also includes automation of the pumps based on level of water in Bullhead Slough.
Construction activity is nearing completion and start up test will be scheduled in early November.
Improvements at Water Plant No. 3
The District is modifying the pumps and piping system at water plant no. 3 (located at the end of Willow Bend Dr.).
Notice to Proceed has been issued. Contractor will mobilize in October to begin construction operations.
PROJECTS UNDER DESIGN
The following projects are included in the new fiscal year budgets and were authorized by the District to commence:
Automatic Transfer Switch for Water Plant 1 & Water Well 5
Project includes installation of necessary components to allow the connection of a portable generator to provide electricity to the facilities, if the electrical grid is not providing the required electricity.
Engineer is preparing exhibits and specifications for bidding the proposed project. Project expected to bid in 1st Quarter 2021.
Epoxy Repairs on Structural Levee
Project includes regrouting and applying of epoxy to maintain the structural levee walls in the District.
Engineer is preparing exhibits and specifications for bidding the proposed project. Project expected to bid in 1st Quarter 2021.
Bullhead Slough – Phase Two
Project will dredge and rehabilitate the side slopes of the portion of Bullhead Slough between Oyster Creek and Farmer Road.
Project will begin advertising for bids in 4th Quarter 2020 with construction to commence in 1st Quarter 2021.
Main Channel Clean Out – Phase Two and Three
Project includes dredging of the main drainage channel between Pitts Road and Plantation Road and the South Pump Station, located at F.M. 359.
Project will begin advertising for bids in 4th Quarter 2020 with construction to commence in 1st Quarter 2021.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR THE DISTRICT
Odyssey attended a seminar held by Fort Bend County Drainage District, which discussed the updated Brazos River models. While the report is still preliminary, the current model shows the proposed 100-year flood plain elevation of the Brazos River lowering from approximately 86.9 to 85.5. This information is preliminary and subject to change.
