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Friendswood receives overview of master drainage plan; consultants to deliver central flood-risk database by May 2026
Summary
Consultants and city engineers outlined an 8-task master drainage plan intended to update flood models, identify projects and produce a public- and internal-facing web map and GIS database. City officials emphasized the plan will focus on drainage under city control and incorporate County and watershed data.
Friendswood city staff and consultants on March 3 presented a high-level overview of a new Master Drainage Plan intended to update the city’s flood-risk data, prioritize drainage projects and provide a centralized GIS database for decision-making.
Engineering Director Hill Arias introduced Jason Becker of Half Associates (presented as HAF/Half Associates in the packet) who described the study goals, eight major tasks and deliverables. The plan will update baseline hydrologic and hydraulic models, produce flood-risk maps, recommend up to 15 prioritized projects, and deliver a public- and internal-facing web map and a complete package of digital files. The consultant said the study will focus within the city’s roughly 21 square miles and nine sub-watersheds while incorporating upstream and downstream watershed data including Clear Creek.
Becker said Phase 1 will collect and validate data, including as-built infrastructure, historical flooding information and stakeholder input. Phase 2 will develop, screen and prioritize project alternatives and produce a road map for implementation and funding. The study will include two public meetings and multiple workshops with city staff and stakeholders; Becker said the project team aims to finish by May 2026.
Council members welcomed the scope. Councilmember Trish Hanks called for a city council workshop on existing conditions, stressing the need to account for neighborhood-level issues. Hanks asked about the origin of a suggested cap of 15 recommended projects; Becker said the number came from coordination with city staff and experience prioritizing a manageable number of projects that the city can implement.
City Manager Murad Kabiri and staff emphasized that the plan’s focus is on projects the city can implement (storm sewer, streets, local drainage), while acknowledging larger regional issues such as Clear Creek require partners. Rod (city staff) and representatives from drainage districts said the plan will be shared with Harris County Flood Control District, Galveston County Consolidated Drainage District and other partners to avoid duplicative work.
Officials said the plan’s key outcomes will include: a prioritized project list with feasibility and funding approaches; updated flood risk information for emergency management; an accessible web map and centralized GIS database; and a concise report with exhibits and one-page highlights for decision-makers. Staff indicated early opportunities exist — such as planned scoping studies for Brigadoon neighborhood flooding — that may move faster than the full master plan and could be considered in upcoming budget cycles.
The city will use the plan to inform capital budgeting, grant applications and future construction scopes. Public engagement components include a citizen action plan, a project website and stakeholder interviews. Consultants said they will provide training on the web map and deliver the digital model files to the city at the conclusion of the study.
