Officials in Kingsville are inaugurating wastewater and flood prevention projects valued at $53 million.
The city aims to mend its primary wastewater conduit and address its flood-prone streets to prevent future inundation.
On May 21, 2021, Kingsville experienced roughly 12 inches of rainfall within seven hours. City Manager Mark McLaughlin noted that had that water been harvested and conserved, and it could have supplied Kingsville for three years.
The streets get inundated every time there’s significant rainfall in the area.
“We aim to prevent flooding on the 14th by installing larger pipes and more inlets beneath it. If flooding does occur, the water should recede much quicker,” he explained.
The initial undertaking involves replacing the city’s primary wastewater line.
“It’s crucial for Kingsville because this main line directs waste to our treatment plant. A blockage here means disruptions throughout the city,” he stated.
The city is enthusiastic about the new wastewater line and the financial support they’ve received. The Texas Water Development Board is funding 57% of the outstanding $8 million, with the remaining 43% sourced from a zero-interest loan spanning 30 years. While McLaughlin acknowledges the project won’t entirely prevent flooding, it will significantly hasten water drainage, directing it more swiftly to Baffin Bay than before.