HOUSTON – A flood-prone underpass near Franklin and Navigation in east Houston remains under investigation, as officials say identifying and repairing drainage issues could take several weeks.
The area has repeatedly flooded after rainfall, at times reaching significant water levels and forcing drivers to avoid the roadway.
The city first told KPRC 2 on April 21 that a contractor would be on site Thursday, April 24, to begin inspections and plan repairs. According to city updates, a consultant team was on site April 24, 25, and 26.
Work included CCTV inspections, pipe cleaning, surveying, and railroad flag support due to active train operations in the area.
On April 28, officials said the project is a high priority but noted that a timeline for completion is not yet available. In an update on April 29, officials said the investigation is ongoing and expected to take “a few weeks.”
Officials said the system involves a storm sewer installed around 1936 that runs approximately 25 to 40 feet underground within a railroad right of way. Access points are narrow and constrained due to the age and location of the infrastructure.
Crews are working to determine the alignment of the storm sewer system and identify potential damage or puncture points. Officials also said the system connects to drainage leading toward Buffalo Bayou and may be impacted when water levels rise.
Once the investigation is complete, the next steps will include designing repairs followed by construction. No timeline has been provided for those phases.
In the meantime, crews have been pumping out water after rainfall and adding barricades to restrict access during flooding. Officials also said there are four locked swing gates at the underpass, with Houston police assisting in opening and closing them for safety.
The East End District is also working to install two cameras to help monitor conditions at the site.
Crews are scheduled to return Monday, May 4, to continue the investigation after recent weather delays.
Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roadways and follow safety guidance: Turn around, don’t drown.