On September 24, 2024, at 10 a.m., Harris County will make a splash—quite literally—as officials gather at Hutcheson Park for the highly anticipated ribbon cutting ceremony for the Hunting Bayou Federal Flood Risk Management Project, affectionately dubbed Project Hunting. This monumental $100 million initiative, a collaborative endeavor between the Harris County Flood Control District and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, marks a significant step forward in enhancing flood safety for Houston’s vulnerable neighborhoods.

A Game-Changer for Flood Risk Management

Flooding has long been a pressing issue for residents in the Hunting Bayou watershed, particularly among low- to moderate-income communities. The completion of this project is set to alleviate these concerns by dramatically reducing flood risks. The improvements include the widening and deepening of approximately four miles of the Hunting Bayou, the replacement and modification of 17 bridges, and the excavation of the 75-acre Curtis M. Graves Stormwater Detention Basin, located near Homestead Road and Loop 610.

But what does this mean in real terms? With these enhancements, water surface elevations will decrease by an impressive 3 to 4 feet during a 100-year flood event, effectively removing around 4,450 homes from the floodplain. This reduction in flood risk promises to protect not only the residents’ homes but also the local economy and quality of life.

Key Players in the Celebration

Leading the charge at the ribbon cutting will be Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, alongside Colonel Rhett Blackmon, Commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Galveston District, and Dr. Tina Petersen, Executive Director of the Harris County Flood Control District. Together with distinguished guests and community leaders, they will celebrate a project that epitomizes collaboration, resilience, and forward-thinking solutions.

Community Impact and Enhancements

Beyond flood mitigation, the Hunting Bayou project also focuses on beautifying the area and enhancing community amenities. Expect to see a concrete trail and pedestrian bridges that will not only improve accessibility but also encourage community engagement with the natural landscape. The project embodies the spirit of Houston—where innovation meets community needs.

Join Us!

Mark your calendars and come join the celebration at Hutcheson Park, located at 5400 Lockwood Dr., Houston, TX 77026. Witness firsthand the progress being made in flood risk management and community improvement in Houston. 

As we cut the ribbon, let’s also celebrate a future with fewer flood worries and a stronger, more resilient Houston. Your presence at this event will contribute to a collective vision for a safer tomorrow.

For more info, visit hcp1.net