Houston Receives Grant to Improve Flood Warning Signals

Houston has won a $9.4 million federal grant to improve high-water signals at 40 intersections throughout the city. The high-water signals will feature battery-powered sensors and red lights that will warn drivers of flood waters in intersections.

Previously, the high-water signals have been solar powered, leaving them non-functioning for extended periods of time during cloudy weather. The new equipment will also feature a backup power generator to avoid this problem. Additionally, the new signals will have red lights, whereas the old signals have yellow lights which have led drivers to believe a warning is not dire. The sensor will connect to local flood alert websites including the Harris County Flood Control District and Houston Transtar, enabling drivers to see high-water warnings on a map in real time.

The federal grant will cover cover almost two-thirds of the $14.4 million necessary to complete the upgrades. The city of Houston will contribute $3.27 million, the Texas Department of Transportation will contribute $1.39 million, and Harris County will provide $380,000 in funding.