Title
Consider and take action on a resolution authorizing a professional services agreement with Freese & Nichols, Inc. in the amount not to exceed $5,000,000 for the Lower Clear Creek and Dickinson Bayou Watershed Feasibility Study (DR1908) (Executive Director of Capital Projects)
Background:
Approval of this resolution will authorize a professional services agreement with Freese & Nichols, Inc. in the amount not to exceed $5,000,000 for the Lower Clear Creek and Dickinson Bayou Watershed Feasibility Study (DR1908).
In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, Council directed staff to lead an effort to develop alternatives to address flooding in the lower Clear Creek/Clear Lake and Dickinson Bayou watersheds. Phase 1 of this effort concluded with recommendations for projects in excess of $1B. Some of these projects have been carried forward into construction by other jurisdictions.
Additionally, the project was authorized as part of the Water Resources Development Act through Congress in 2022. We remain authorized but have not received appropriations. We have elected to proceed with a self-performed feasibility study through a USACE Section 203 Study. Approval of this agreement will provide $3M for evaluation of flood mitigation projects in the watersheds with a goal to meet requirements necessary for federal funding of construction. It will also provide $2M for necessary environmental efforts if the projects are deemed feasible.
The Mayor, City Manager, and Galveston County Commissioner Dugie have advocated for this project to the Assistant Secretary of the Army’s Office and received buy-in. Agreements for coordination with USACE are in the works based on prior City Council approval.
While Staff is working to secure partnerships with neighboring agencies, we have been fortunate to secure partnerships from 4 entities to provide the $5 million necessary to start the study. League City, Galveston County, and City of Friendswood have committed to $1.25 million contribution each. We have also requested $1.25 million from Harris County Flood Control District and expect to have some form of agreement before the end of this year. Other expected partners include City of Dickinson, City of Santa Fe, Galveston County Consolidated Drainage District, Brazoria County, and others based on a prorated share of the watersheds via land area. That breakdown is attached as “Proposed Watershed Cost Breakdown”.
With the Direct Funding partnerships above, League City’s share of the study cost is $1,250,000 with an expectation that both Friendswood and League City would be reimbursed for their overcontribution as other entities participate.
It is estimated this study will take 24-36 months to complete from notice to proceed. However, there is a target to provide feasible projects by the beginning of 2027 such that staff and local partners can advocate for State funding as part of the 2027 legislative session.
Approval of this item, and execution of the contract, is contingent on receiving final agreements and funding from City of Friendswood, Galveston County, and Harris County Flood Control District.
Attachments:
1. Proposed Resolution
2. Exhibit A - PSA with Proposal
3. Proposed Watershed Cost Breakdown
4. CIP Project Sheet
5. CIP Aerial Map
6. Vendor Report Card
FUNDING
{X} Funding in the amount of $5,000,000 is available from Miscellaneous Capital Projects, fund 5015, with expenses charged to project expense string DR1908-PLAN DESIGN-DESIGN-TS CASH.
Revenues received by contributing parties outlined above will be deposited into fund 5015, with League City’s contribution being $1.25 million budgeted in the FY2026 CIP.
STRATEGIC PLANNING
{X} Addresses Strategic Planning Critical Success Factor #1: Develop and Maintain our Infrastructure