FORT WORTH (WBAP/KLIF)-The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has completed the puzzle of almost 2 decades of planning in the city of Fort Worth.
Rep. Kay Granger, Republican Leader of the House Appropriations Committee, made the announcement about the large donation to begin construction on the Trinity River Vision/Central City flood control project.
With their 403 million dollar donation, Fort Worth will be able to construct the Panther Island Project, which will expand Downtown Fort Worth and provide much needed flood protection for the growing population.
“This is a great day for Fort Worth. Having experienced unprecedented growth since I was mayor, we are now the 12th largest city in the nation. But with growth comes responsibility. As the leaders in flood control, I thank the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for understanding that responsibility and addressing that need for Fort Worth. Our community will be safer thanks to their hard work and tireless commitment” said Congresswoman Kay Granger. “I also thank U.S. Representative Marc Veasey for helping this project cross the finish line and Mayor Mattie Parker for her commitments to bring an unwavering community vision to its ultimate reality. Today Fort Worth will be safer and stronger.”
The project will essentially mimic a San Antonio River Walk entertianment area while protecting 2,300 acres of Fort Worth neighborhoods.
“This is the go-time moment we have been anxiously awaiting. We had confidence in the Corps of Engineers and our federal representatives. This funding announcement delivers the certainty that will make our community safer and the green light for further investment in the area. This is an incredible moment in Fort Worth’s history,” said Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker.
The project will take about 5 to 6 years to complete. Mayor Parker said the goal is to educate the community, get input and help to protect generations to come.
“The Trinity River flood control project is a critical piece of infrastructure that will provide needed flood protection and growth opportunities to Fort Worth. I am pleased to have been a part of the bipartisan team that got this project over the goal line.” said Congressman Marc Veasey.
“This is an important day for all of Tarrant County. We have experienced tremendous growth. But, with growth comes responsibilities. This flood project helps us handle our growth without raising people’s taxes. It’s a win-win for all,” said Tarrant County Judge Glen Whitley.
“Today’s announcement is great news. This funding addresses Fort Worth’s flood risks that are a result of a rapidly growing population which has tripled in size since our current levee system was built in 1960. This funding will update our levee system to reduce the risk of flooding to over 2,400 acres of Fort Worth neighborhoods. Tarrant Regional Water District is proud to be the Corps local sponsor to get the job done.” said Leah King, President, Tarrant Regional Water District.
The funding will allow the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to complete final design of all project components and construction of the bypass channel.