Friendswood is moving forward with approximately $10 million in critical water infrastructure projects, fully funded through federal COVID-19 relief money, officials announced at the December City Council meeting.
The projects include a new ground storage tank at Surface Water Plant No. 1 and installation of a 24-inch water transmission main, both aimed at enhancing water capacity and reliability for the growing community.
“Between these two projects, $10 million, and not a single penny of that ARPA funds is being wasted,” said City Engineer Hill. The projects are being funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, with minimal impact on local taxpayers.
The water line project, which came in significantly under initial estimates, will cost $4.98 million, while the storage tank project is budgeted at $5.02 million. Both contracts are pending approval and include contingency allowances for potential adjustments during construction.
The city also reported progress on additional infrastructure initiatives, including a wastewater master plan and various transportation improvements. A comprehensive drainage study for the Analia neighborhood is scheduled to begin in early 2025, addressing long-standing flooding issues in that area.
Hill also reaffirmed that partnership opportunities are actively sought to maximize available resources.
Construction timelines vary for the different projects, with the ground storage tank expected to take approximately one year to complete.
