The City of Brownsville Public Works and Engineering Department recently presented the results of the Flood Infrastructure Fund Project Study at the Brownsville Public Library on Central Boulevard. The study, which was funded by the Texas Water Development Board, aimed to identify flood vulnerabilities within the City of Brownsville and surrounding areas, prioritize mitigation efforts, evaluate flood mitigation strategies, and provide a comprehensive flood mitigation implementation plan.

The recent presentation was the final public report on the flood infrastructure fund.

Doroteo Garcia Jr., the director of engineering and public works for the City of Brownsville, highlighted that the project identified 10 areas that are more heavily flooded during inundations. This information allows the city to prioritize projects and allocate resources to areas with higher density or greater impact.

Residential flooding is the primary concern for the public works and engineering departments, although commercial flooding is also of concern. Garcia explained that the city's location and the lack of accounting for current rainfall levels during certain developments contributed to the flooding issue. However, the city has made improvements to its policies and recently upgraded its drainage policy, mandating 50-year detention for commercial and residential developments above a certain size.

The key goals of the project were to identify flood vulnerabilities, prioritize mitigation efforts, evaluate flood mitigation strategies, and develop a comprehensive flood mitigation implementation plan. The study encompassed areas within the City of Brownsville, as well as nearby regions such as Los Fresnos, Rancho Viejo, Olmito, and unincorporated regions of southern Cameron County. By implementing the proposed flood mitigation strategies, the project aims to reduce the adverse effects of floods, enhance community resilience, and create a safer environment for the community.

Overall, the Flood Infrastructure Fund Project Study in Brownsville represents a proactive approach to address the challenges posed by flooding, protect residential and commercial areas, and promote the well-being of the community.