Taylor City Council approves $4.47M grant for drainage improvements project

In a recent Taylor City Council meeting, significant discussions centered around the acceptance of a grant from the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) aimed at improving drainage in the city. This grant, part of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, will fund the first phase of drainage improvements along Kimbrough and Shaw Streets, addressing long-standing flooding issues that have affected the community.

City officials highlighted the urgency of the project, recalling the devastating Memorial Day floods of 2015, which resulted in substantial damage to homes and infrastructure. Approximately 280 homes suffered an estimated $700,000 in flood damage during that event. In response, the city developed a drainage master plan, completed in 2022, which prioritized this project as the second most critical improvement needed.

The proposed drainage enhancements will include the installation of 3,700 linear feet of new storm drains and channel improvements, benefiting 73 properties directly. The project aims to eliminate flooding for 49 structures and reduce yard and street flooding for an additional 34 properties. While the drainage improvements are the primary focus, city officials noted that there may be opportunities to consider street enhancements concurrently.

The total cost for the first phase of the project is estimated at $4.475 million, with TDEM covering 90% of the funding. The remaining 10% will be sourced from the city’s utility fund. The timeline for the project began in 2022, and the council anticipates moving forward with the next phase following the completion of the design work.

This grant acceptance marks a crucial step in the city’s ongoing efforts to mitigate flood risks and improve infrastructure, reflecting a proactive approach to community safety and resilience. As the council continues to prioritize such projects, residents can expect further updates on the progress and potential future initiatives aimed at enhancing Taylor's drainage systems.