Title
Consideration of and action on a resolution ratifying the City Manager’s decision to authorize the submission of a Harris County Pct. 2 Partnership Project Grant application for the College Park Drainage Ditch Improvement, committing to provide the required cost share if awarded.
Body
Summary:
In January, Commissioner Adrian Garcia announced his office was accepting new applications for the Partnership Grant. These grants cover 50% of the total cost of a project, with the City funding the remaining half. The Public Works Department wished to apply for the Harris County Pct. 2 Partnership Grant for funding related to drainage infrastructure improvements. Public Works applied for, and received, this grant for the “College Park Drainage Ditch Improvement”.
Applying for the grant was a last-minute decision as we struggled to find a project that would meet the guidelines for the grant. Due to the timing, we did not have time to go to Council prior to submitting the grant application, therefore the City Manager gave his approval for us to move forward with the application with the understanding that, if approved, would have the action item ratified by Council.
After discussion with the Public Works Director and the Street and Drainage Supervisor, Shain Olson, it was decided to apply for a grant to have a complete rehabilitation of the College Park Ditch. This ditch is located between Luella Avenue and College Park Drive. (attached is an exhibit image). In order to get a rough estimate for the work, we contacted a local construction company who gave us an estimated cost for $1,896,500. On the grant application, the cost was rounded to $2-million.
The official award letter from Precinct 2 stating the project was selected for funding in the amount of $1-million, and that Harris County Flood Control District would take the lead on the project, was received June 2, 2026. At this time, the City’s estimated half of the project is $1,000,000. Once the County designs and bids the project, the City will have a more accurate number for the City’s 50% cost share.
Fiscal/Budgetary Impact:
Potential grant funding of $1,000,000 to be matched with an additional $1,000,000 from City resources, which are available for this purpose.
Recommended action
Ratify the City Manager’s decision to apply for the Harris County Pct. 2 Partnership Project Grant application for the College Park Drainage Ditch Improvement with approval of the resolution.