Identified as a top priority during the development of the District’s Parks Master Plan, this portion of trail was the first phase of over two miles of planned trails to provide connectivity and recreation for District residents.
EHRA planners, hydrologists and landscape architects worked together to propose an alternative use for the space, re-developing the basin into an amenity pond. EHRA carefully selected native plant materials for both their ability to survive in the harsh conditions of the basin as well as providing filtration for improved storm water quality.
EHRA worked with the District to create a comprehensive Parks Master Plan, which included recommendations for the development of over two miles of hike/bike trails adjacent to local streets, and within flood control and utility pipeline easements. The District began implementation of the Plan by prioritizing the beautification of West Road, a major arterial street that runs through the District.
There are many different routes to take in engineering. Why did you choose this route? When I first started school, I quickly realized that my options were restricted due to economic reasons. I decided to join to the military to help pay for school expenses. Even though this is not a typical route, it was more than well worth it. It took me five years to complete my undergraduate studies and obtain my Bachelors of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Texas at Tyler - Houston Engineering Center.
Did you always know you wanted to become a civil engineer? When I was in 9th grade, I was exposed to a class project that involved using nothing but straws, string and toothpicks to build a model bridge. This quickly sparked my interest in a field that involved construction. However, not clearly knowing the distinction between Engineering and Architecture, I chose Architecture straight out of high school. I quickly regretted this decision and decided to switch my major to Civil Engineering.
What was your favorite EHRA project that you’ve worked on and why? Northwest Park MUD Water Plant is my first project that I started working on at EHRA. Some aspects that have made this project both challenging and interesting include designing infrastructure around the existing blue creek subdivision, in a 0.75- acre site to include on-site detention. I was able to apply multiple concepts that I learned in engineering school, such as sizing detention and storm pipe calculations. Having all these constraints, and using concepts learned in engineering school made this project my favorite one that I've worked on.
If you were stranded on a deserted island, what three engineering tools would you want? Hammer, nails and a hand saw.
