Governor Abbott Announces New Flood Prevention Efforts In Kingwood, Texas
Governor Greg Abbott today visited Kingwood, Texas where he took an aerial tour to survey damage along the San Jacinto River, and met with community leaders and elected officials to discuss Hurricane Harvey recovery and flood prevention efforts. During the meeting, the Governor announced new actions Texas will be taking to help prevent future flooding in communities like Kingwood.
"It has been a trying time for this community as we work through the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey," said Governor Abbott. "I want to assure all Texans that I am committed to working with the federal government and local officials to protect life and property from uncontrolled flood waters. I thank these local leaders for all they have done in their communities, and I want to assure them that we will continue working to make Texas more resilient to future flood events."
During the meeting the Governor announced a number of important and specific steps Texas will be taking to help prevent future flooding. These actions include:
- Using Hazard Mitigation Funds, the Texas Department of Emergency Management (TDEM) has authorized $3 million to jumpstart the engineering and permitting process to determine where dredging should on the San Jacinto River.
- Using Hazard Mitigation Funds, TDEM has authorized $2 million for a regional study focused on the San Jacinto River watershed to prevent future flooding.
- Using Hazard Mitigation Funds, FEMA has approved over 900 voluntary buyouts in Harris County.
- Instructing the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to investigate and take action against sand mining operations violating regulations.
- Directing the San Jacinto River Authority (SJRA) to immediately identify what can be done to prevent flood events along the West Fork of the river.
- Directing the SJRA to implement immediate and long-term solutions to protect lives and property of Texans living in the watershed.
- Directing the SJRA to identify funding to implement a long-term plan that better protects areas downstream of Lake Conroe.