The purpose of this project was to convert the existing at-grade crossing of Brazoria County Road 56 (CR 56) and State Highway 288 (SH 288) into a diamond interchange that includes a new overpass bridge and providing access to the newly developed Meridiana Development. Coordination with TXDOT, area landowners, utility companies, and Brazoria County was integral in obtaining approval and acceptance of the project. The main design challenge for this project was to accommodate double intersections on the west side of SH 288 to tie into existing access roads with two-way traffic and a new southbound on-ramp within a close proximity. EHRA coordinated with TxDOT throughout the project from preliminary concepts for the intersection and bridge through final design and construction. Each component of this project was designed in accordance with TxDOT standards and criteria.
A 720-acre gated master planned community located off Telge Road, just north of Willow Creek. See how EHRA was involved in this project.
EHRA completed preliminary engineering, phase one environmental site assessment and schematic development for the widening of Northpark Dr. between US 59 and Woodland Hills Dr. EHRA also provided program management, drainage analysis and design, traffic engineering, environmental documentation and schematic design for the roadway, as well as grade separation at the Loop 494/UPRR railroad crossing.
EHRA conducted traffic operations and access management studies for the Northpark Dr. corridor. This corridor is approximately 2.2 miles long and has major signalized and unsignalized intersections and driveways that access various subdivisions and industrial developments. These studies laid the groundwork for the widening of Northpark Dr. from a four-lane boulevard cross-section to a six-lane boulevard complete street. The new street design includes low impact development drainage, conventional drainage, a grade separation at the UPRR crossing with mechanically stabilized earth retaining walls, two at-grade crossings for bi-directional frontage access, reconstruction of two concrete bridges over a diversion channel, intersection improvements, a roadway-adjacent multiuse path and traffic signal improvements.
Drainage analysis and design included hydrologic and hydraulic studies of both existing and proposed conditions to demonstrate that proposed project components would not adversely affect the 100-year floodplain in the area. The roadway and traffic designs contained horizontal and vertical alignments, cross-sections, plan and profile, sidewalk and bicycle accommodations, intersection layouts, traffic control plans and signing and pavement markings.
As the program management firm, EHRA coordinated with TxDOT, UPRR, the City of Houston Council District E, COH Planning and Development Department, COH Public Works and Engineering Department, Montgomery County, Harris County, HCFCD and area residents throughout the project.
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.
Facilities requiring expansion were also common wall construction, and the EHRA team converted the facilities into aerobic digesters and sludge thickeners.
EHRA Engineering is privileged to collaborate with the City of Hedwig Village on their Westside Infrastructure Project. Our commitment to innovation and improved infrastructure supports the City’s vision, aiming to revitalize essential infrastructure while preserving the area’s natural beauty. This project represents a dedication to enhancing the City’s functionality and sustainability.
The Westside Infrastructure Project is a significant initiative for the City of Hedwig Village, focusing on the complete reconstruction of eight roads, along with new storm sewer design for its currently undersized and compromised network. The primary goal is to upgrade the 40-year-old pavement to meet modern standards, ensuring it serves the community effectively for the next 50+ years. Integral to the project is community input, which EHRA is incorporating to tailor the design to the residents’ needs and preferences.
A key feature of this project is the preservation of the mature trees that enhance the streets of Hedwig Village. EHRA has focused on safeguarding these trees by conducting thorough examinations and implementing solutions to minimize disruption to critical root zones. We have partnered with M2L, who are experts in urban forestry, to assess over 500 trees, including 83 heritage trees and 132 protected trees, to minimize the impact on the area's natural character. As the prime consultant for this project, EHRA is performing public infrastructure, hydrology and hydraulics and surveying professional services. We have also teamed with Geotechnical Engineering subconsultant, Ninyo & Moore, to enhance our understanding of the pavement's subsurface characteristics.
Project Progress and Milestones
The project commenced in late 2023 with comprehensive discussions in city meetings to gather stakeholder input. EHRA has worked with city officials and community members to refine project details, aiming for plan approval and construction bidding by 2024’s year-end. The project is currently within the 60% design stage, driven by a collaborative effort between the City of Hedwig Village and its residents. Active participation in City Council meetings and community engagements has been pivotal, with every voice helping shape the project’s direction.
The total project cost is estimated at approximately $12 million. As the City of Hedwig Village aims to balance quality and cost-effectiveness, EHRA is dedicated to delivering value-engineered solutions, mindful of taxpayer funds, and collaborating closely with the City to optimize project costs and efficiency.
Community-Centered Solutions
The community’s support and insights have been invaluable in addressing concerns effectively. We recognize the unique features of each home and adopt a personalized approach, working closely with the City to offer solutions that satisfy the majority of stakeholders.
A notable challenge has been addressing outdated utilities intersecting within the project area, specifically where sanitary sewer lines intersect with existing storm sewer systems. We are carefully examining these conflicts during the design phase to avoid potential issues and ensure optimal functionality in the new design.
EHRA Engineering is proud to lead this team in contributing to the improvements of the Westside Infrastructure Project for the City of Hedwig Village. We are committed to delivering a project that not only meets the City's current needs but also ensures sustainable and resilient infrastructure for future generations.