In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the ongoing challenges and advancements in flood management for Jersey Village, particularly in light of the tax day flood of April 2016. City Manager Mike Castro and Mayor Justin Ray highlighted the development of a long-term flood recovery plan initiated after the devastating flood, which has become a crucial roadmap for future improvements.
The plan, published in August 2017, was met with some criticism regarding its cost of $620,917 from the general fund, but it has provided essential data for securing additional funding. One significant project stemming from this plan is the construction of a berm at the local golf course, which cost approximately $8.96 million, primarily funded through federal and state grants.
The berm is designed to manage stormwater effectively, preventing flooding in the surrounding neighborhoods. During recent storms, including a notable event where 2.44 inches of rain fell in just 15 minutes, the golf course's water storage capacity proved effective, filling to only 40% of its capacity. This design allows for significant stormwater management, with the capacity to store 185 acre-feet of water, which is critical in mitigating flooding risks.
Despite these advancements, officials acknowledged that some residents still experienced flooding in their homes during recent storms, indicating that while progress has been made, the community is not entirely out of danger. The ongoing efforts reflect a commitment to improving flood resilience in Jersey Village, aiming to protect residents and reduce financial burdens associated with flood damage.