This Week: Project Brays Bayou Bridge Replacements Expedited; New Finance Director Confirmed; Houston Celebrates Independence Day

Project Brays Bayou Bridge Replacements Expedited

The reconstruction of eight bridges along approximately 11 miles of Brays Bayou will be fast-tracked due to an intergovernmental funding agreement between the City of Houston, Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD), the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB), and the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). Although approved by the USACE, the funding for much of the planned Project Brays improvements has been delayed, leading to lengthy setbacks in construction. At Mayor Turner’s behest, to expedite these needed drainage improvements, the TWDB has agreed to loan the City $43M, interest-free. The City will advance the funding to HCFCD to complete construction. Once the project is complete, the HCFCD will be reimbursed this funding by the federal government, and will in turn repay the loan to the City of Houston.

The bridges to be rebuilt include Stella Link Rd, Buffalo Speedway, and Greenbriar Dr in District C, as well as Almeda Rd, Telephone Rd, Lawndale St, Forest Hill Blvd, and S. 75th Street.

New Finance Director Confirmed

Mayor Pro Tem Cohen and her colleagues voted to confirm Tantri Erlinawati-Emo as the Director of the Finance Department. Emo has worked for the Finance Department and the Public Works Department since 2007 and has served as Acting Director since September 2017. She received a Master in Finance from the University of Houston. Congratulations Director Emo!

Committee Materials Available Online

Chair Cohen convened a meeting of the Council Committee on Quality of Life where members received an update on the Texas Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Program, as well as a presentation on the proposed design guidelines for the Heights East, West, and South Historic Districts. The meeting is archived online via HTV (under the Committees & Commissions tab).

Houston Celebrates Independence Day

On Wednesday, July 4th, from 4PM-10PM, Houston will host the 31st annual Independence Day celebration on Buffalo Bayou with CITGO Freedom Over Texas. Festivities will include live music from Chris Young, the Mavericks, and several other artists on four stages throughout Sam Houston Park and District C’s Eleanor Tinsley Park. The fireworks display will begin at 9:35PM. Expect area street closures beginning Monday, July 2nd.