713-627-3200
Regional Goods Movement Questionnaire
Project Information
| Agency Name | Harris County Engineering |
| Project Title | East Richey Rd Improvement Project |
| Facility/Street/Highway | E Richey Road |
| Limits | I45 NBFR to Grovedale Rd |
| Description | Safety improvements, access management, driveways, sidewalks and improved street geometry. |
| Timeframe | Short Term (0-5 Years) |
| Estimated Cost | $6,100,000.00 |
Investment Category-Focused Criteria
Yes
(1) Harris County Truck Route Study 2016, (2) Vision Zero Action Plan
(1) https://www.eng.hctx.net/Portals/22/02-25-2020_CTP.pdf, (2)https://www.eng.hctx.net/Portals/33/Vision_Zero/HC_Vision_Zero_Action_Plan_Report-09-12-2022.pdf
High
Yes
8% Truck Traffic - This is a conservative estimate based of HGAC’s Major Freight Cluster inflow/outflow freight trips for the industrial land use block.
12% Truck Traffic - This is a conservative estimate based of HGAC’s Major Freight Cluster inflow/outflow freight trips for the industrial land use block and HGAC Demographic forecast projections for 2045.
Yes
Yes
~760,000 SQFT of warehouse capacity within ¼ mile of the project corridor
The proposed project will have a positive impact on regional goods movement within and throughout the larger Houston-Galveston region. The project intends to reconstruct the roadway to increase capacity, which will help accommodate the growing freight traffic crossing through to and from the nearby international airport. The project will also improve connections to major critical freight networks and the Port of Houston, which will ultimately improve the efficiency of goods movement in and out of the region. The project will improve connectivity between George Bush Intercontinental Airport and I-45, the most heavily traversed multimodal freight corridor in Texas*.(* https://ftp.txdot.gov/pub/txdot/move-texas-freight/studies/i45-freight-corridor-plan.pdf) Furthermore, the project includes the implementation of Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) technologies, which will enhance the operational efficiency and safety of the roadway. ITS technologies could include things like dynamic message signs, traffic cameras, and real-time traffic monitoring and management systems. These technologies will provide real-time information to drivers, allowing them to make informed decisions about their routes and help mitigate congestion and delays. The proposed project on E. Richey Road would improve the connectivity and accessibility of the region, making it easier for residents living north of the corridor to move around, which can support economic growth and development. The project could also lead to improved safety and reduced travel times, which can have a positive impact on the quality of life for local residents and businesses. Additionally, the road project may incentivize and attract companies to consider economic opportunities offered along the corridor for growth and expansion. Overall, the proposed project will have a significant positive impact on regional goods movement within and through the region by increasing capacity, improving connections, implementing ITS technologies, and improving the quality of life for over 25,000 residents.
Yes
As it is important to Harris County, the Port of Houston recognizes the importance of integrating emerging technologies into its operations to remain competitive, as indicated in the Port of Houston 2040 Plan. By enabling digitally enabled ecosystems, innovative planning and offering optimized resources and workflows, the Port and by extension, the county, can operate in collaborative partnership and support real-time data available to stakeholders. Harris County incentivizes and supports logistics companies and warehouse operators to develop shared delivery networks that operate during off-peak hours. Houston's market currently promotes the implementation of alternative solutions to traditional warehousing, such as cross docking, drop-shipping, Just-in-time (JIT) Inventory, virtual warehousing, and on-demand warehousing, among other options. From the traffic operations perspective, Harris County is currently deploying a multi-faceted communications upgrade to the existing intersection traffic control systems (over 1,200 traffic signals under Harris County management). Part of the upgrades include providing wireless communication back to a central processing database and an infrastructure replacement program to replace aging traffic signals (over 300 traffic signals have been operating for more than 20 years). These upgrades to the traffic control systems will improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and minimize delays for freight transportation during peak and off-peak hours. Along the proposed project corridor, for every mile driven there is an opportunity to reduce over an hour of congestion delay. Considering the land uses and the importance of the warehousing sector near the Port of Houston, these savings are a game-changing differentiator in the market. Additionally, Harris County supports the adoption of intelligent transportation systems (ITS) among logistics companies and trucking fleets. ITS can optimize route planning and scheduling, reduce idling times, and promote the use of alternative modes of freight transportation such as rail and barge.
No
No
No
Other Investment Category Focused Criteria
The proposed E. Richey Road improvements will have a significant impact on the local freight activity and traffic operations, as well as the wider region. The IH 45 corridor is the most heavily traversed multimodal freight corridor in Texas, serving as a vital link for international trade. The proposed improvements will complement the ongoing IH 45 North Planning and Environmental Linkages study by improving accessibility to the corridor and enhancing the transportation network in the region. This project is particularly important for the county because the proposed segment of East Richey Road serves major freight industry clusters west of Harris County's biggest intercontinental airport. Shipping activity through the 19th ranked nationally for total cargo tonnage accounted for $14.1 billion in 2018, 96% more than reported in 2003. This growth is highlighted by the recent export market share trends, with civilian aircraft parts (11%), computers (7%), and medical instruments (5%) as the top 3 most valued exports - all of which have to be mobilized via networks of ground freight to reach the port. As of 2022, the top 3 exports by tonnage accounted for over 2,200 tons being mobilized through the port out to our County's trade partners*. (*According to the Texas Comptroller’s Office and the Houston Airport System reporting data, accessed in 2023) Moreover, the proposed improvements will enhance accessibility to the freight cluster, enabling more efficient movement of goods and materials. The Intercontinental Airport alone brings in 42,000 direct and indirect jobs to the surrounding area, or 27% of the total jobs provided in the area around the airport (2018). According to HGAC's demographic forecast model, by 2045 it is expected to be an increase of 12,500 households and almost 1.5x more jobs than there were in 2018. Given the strategic position of East Richey Road, improving freight access by improving the transportation network in this area, the project will support economic growth and job creation, benefiting the local community and the region as a whole. The proposed improvements include the construction of new stormwater drainage systems, the installation of intelligent transportation systems, and real-time traveler information to improve traffic operations and reduce delays. The project will significantly enhance accessibility, mobility, multimodal, resiliency, reliability, and traffic operations across the multimodal I-45 Freight Corridor. By improving daily traffic operations, intersection safety, and the state of good repair of the corridor, the project will support economic growth, improve livability, and enhance the overall transportation network in the region. With the future of the county’s surface transportation in mind, the proposed project on Rankin Road will also complement the ongoing TxDOT IH 45 North Planning and Environmental Linkages study and address the needs of the most heavily traversed multimodal freight corridor in Texas, bringing greater economic benefits and connectivity to the region. In conclusion, the proposed E. Richey Road improvements will have a positive impact on the local and wider region's economic growth, job creation, and overall transportation network. The improvements will enhance the accessibility, resiliency, and reliability of the corridor, benefiting residents and businesses alike. The project's implementation of new infrastructure technologies will further enhance the accessibility, resiliency, and reliability of the corridor, improving the quality of life for all. With the IH 45 corridor's strategic position as the most heavily traversed multimodal freight corridor in Texas, the proposed project will play a significant role in addressing the region's transportation needs, bringing greater economic benefits and connectivity to the region.
The proposed project offers several benefits to high growth areas, particularly those that are experiencing increased economic development activity. In the vacant land parcels 1/4 mile south of E Richey Road it is expected to see more light industrial land uses. Given the proximity to major freight corridors and an international airport, the freight transportation industry will continue to evolve and expand. For Harris County it becomes increasingly important for high growth areas to have efficient and reliable infrastructure to not only support the movement of goods and materials, but also to provide safe and resilient networks for the community. One of the key benefits of the proposed project is that it can alleviate future congestion due to potential economic development activity, such as the expansion of warehouses or other freight generators. By deploying advanced traffic control systems, optimizing route planning, and scheduling with intelligent transportation systems, and promoting sustainable transportation practices among logistics companies and trucking fleets, Harris County can ensure that its infrastructure can handle the increased demand for freight transportation while minimizing the impact on local residents. The proposed project also has the potential to attract new businesses and industries to high growth areas by providing enhanced levels of service to customers through increased visibility, improved transparency, and greater efficiency in the movement of goods and materials. As local businesses, industries and agencies continue to prioritize supply chain efficiency and sustainability, Harris County's investment in advanced technology and sustainable transportation practices can make it a more attractive location for companies looking to locate or expand their operations. Overall, the proposed project offers numerous benefits to high growth areas, including improved access to new land uses, reduced congestion, and enhanced economic development opportunities. By making the investment at the proposed project location, Harris County can support the growth of the freight transportation industry while promoting sustainable development and improving the quality of life for its residents.
The project is a multimodal connector that allows for walking/biking/ADA access for pedestrians to safely connect within an area that is located on the County's high-injury network. Prime objectives for this project are to provide accessibility to nearby residents along a major thoroughfare, to provide safety improvements that provide pedestrian and/or bicycle facilities along a major corridor that are separated from vehicular traffic by a barrier or provide dedicated bicycle facilities along a low volume, low-speed roadway that parallels a major corridor. To achieve this goal, the project proposes to implement a series of pedestrian and bicycle improvements along the corridor, including the construction of new sidewalks, crosswalks, and dedicated bike lanes. The project scope includes a wide multi-use paved trail on the north side of the roadway, providing pedestrian access to anchor retail tenants and transit opportunities from the nearby residential subdivisions and nearby multifamily complexes. The project also proposes to install new marked crosswalks at key intersections, providing safe crossing points for pedestrians, and improved pedestrian signals to improve safety and accessibility for pedestrians. The proposed project also includes the implementation of traffic calming measures along the corridor to reduce vehicle speeds and improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. This is important because the project corridor is the main access for schools, junior colleges, and trade schools. With a posted speed limit of 45, there is a goal to encourage drivers to slow down and share the road with freight traffic, pedestrians, and bicyclists, improving overall safety and comfort for all users of the roadway. To ensure that the proposed improvements are accessible to all users, the project includes the assessment and rehabilitation of ADA-compliant curb ramps and crosswalks, providing safe and accessible routes for pedestrians with disabilities. As a best practice, Harris County has been installing ADA curb ramps and crosswalks at every signalized intersection for the last 25 years, even if there was no existing sidewalk to connect at the time of signal construction. The presence of 16 sets of curb cuts along East Richey Road, with the majority leading into commercial businesses, poses a significant safety concern for pedestrians. These curb cuts disrupt the continuity of sidewalks and crosswalks, creating potential conflict points between pedestrians and vehicles. To address this concern, the proposed project would include measures to improve pedestrian safety, such as the installation of raised crosswalks, signalized pedestrian crossings, and/or pedestrian islands. Additionally, the project could involve the consolidation of curb cuts where possible to reduce the number of potential conflict points. Furthermore, the project could incorporate streetscape improvements that enhance the pedestrian experience and encourage walking and biking, such as the installation of street trees, benches, and bicycle racks. By improving the safety and comfort of pedestrians and cyclists, the project can help promote active transportation and support the County's goal of creating more walkable and bikeable communities. Overall, the proposed project will significantly improve walking and biking conditions along the corridor, providing safe and accessible routes for pedestrians and bicyclists, improving connectivity to the regional bike network, and enhancing overall safety and comfort for all users of the roadway. By improving non-motorized facilities, the project will encourage active transportation and support the County's efforts to promote sustainable transportation options.
Studies have shown the importance of maintaining and improving transit services for local bus service stops. According to a study conducted by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), investment in public transportation leads to significant benefits, including job creation, economic development, and improved access to essential services such as healthcare and education. The study also found that public transportation systems serve as a vital lifeline for many low-income and disadvantaged residents, enabling them to access job opportunities and other essential services that they may not otherwise have access to. The proposed project aims to improve transit services for the FM 1960 Imperial Valley route, which had approximately 640,000 boardings over the last fiscal year, with an average of 2,200 boardings on a typical weekday*. By incorporating transit signal priority measures, the project can help to reduce delays and improve the reliability of transit services, making them more attractive to residents. In addition, the proposed infrastructure improvements such as dedicated bus lanes and new bus stops will significantly improve the transit user experience, reducing travel times and making transit a more appealing transportation option. In addition to the high number of transit riders, there are also a significant number of residents living within close proximity to the project area. With over 24,000 residents living within a quarter-mile of East Richey Rd and over 250,000 residents living in the general area north of Beltway 8 and south of FM 1960, the proposed project has the potential to impact the lives of many individuals. Currently, the typical single-occupancy vehicle commuter in the Houston area travels a daily distance of 24 miles round trip to work. Over almost twenty years, the Houston-Galveston Area Council's Commuting Patterns Analysis reports that the total commute distance has doubled, to about 600,000 miles as of 2019. The proposed project's focus on pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, as well as improving transit services, can provide viable transportation options for residents living within the project area and beyond. This will help to reduce the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the road, alleviate traffic congestion, and ultimately improve the overall quality of life for residents. (*According to METRO Ridership Reports FY2022)
The proposed project can reduce inoperability for significant periods due to infrastructure damage caused by collisions with vehicles. According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), crashes involving commercial vehicles can have a significant impact on the safety and mobility of the transportation system, as well as on the economy and the environment. When bridges or other critical transportation infrastructure are damaged by these types of crashes, it can cause significant disruptions to freight transportation and other essential services. The proposed project location is the primary access to about 24,000 suburban residents, but also to over 760,000 square feet of warehousing space. By deploying advanced traffic control systems and optimizing route planning and scheduling with intelligent transportation systems, the proposed project can help to minimize the risk of collisions involving commercial vehicles. This can reduce the likelihood of infrastructure damage and the associated inoperability that can result from these types of incidents. East Richey Road, which is classified as a major thoroughfare, has a generous amount of right-of-way to accommodate two lanes in each direction and a raised median. However, land development and traffic patterns suggest that it might perform as a minor collector instead. There are 16 driveways intersecting the project corridor, and the traffic is collected and navigated towards I45 NB to the west, towards Imperial Valley Rd (north/south), or to Hardy Toll Road, 1/5 mile further east. Additionally, 43% of the total estimated traffic volume along the corridor is likely to enter from the interstate (I45 NB). The project area has reported 905 crashes in the last five years, indicating that there is a need for improvements to ensure the safety of commuters and commercial vehicles using this thoroughfare. Therefore, implementing the proposed project can help to address these issues and improve the overall safety and reliability of the transportation infrastructure in the area. Overall, the proposed project can help to reduce inoperability for significant periods due to infrastructure damage caused by collisions with vehicles. By deploying advanced technology and implementing safety measures aimed at reducing the risk of collisions involving commercial vehicles, Harris County can ensure that its transportation infrastructure remains safe, reliable, and operational even in the face of unexpected incidents.
Per the County's County Transportation Plan, all roads, street drainage, sidewalk and/or hike/bike trail system are to be measured on a nationally recognized and locally adopted criteria. The intent is for the Pavement Condition Index (PCI) to be the critical factor for management, maintenance, project, and budget decisions for linear infrastructure improvements. Measured on a scale of 0 to 100, any score of 71 or above is considered Satisfactory or Good - thus earning the moniker "B or Better Program". In addition to the Pavement Condition Index, for all county-maintained roads, Harris County tracks the Level of Service as an index. While the proposed project has a satisfactory pavement condition index, it is significantly underperforming to the mobility needs of the area. The latest accounting measures the 1.34 mile corridor to have a level of service of “F”, which indicates a forced or breakdown of flow traffic. To address this issue, the proposed project will involve the reconstruction of the roadway to improve its capacity and level of service, which will in turn enhance the safety and efficiency of the corridor for all users. The reconstruction will also include the replacement of aging infrastructure, such as traffic signals and drainage systems, which will improve the resiliency and extend the service life of the project facility up to an additional 30 years. It is crucial to consider community pillars such as schools when assessing the state of good repair for the project corridor. For example, Richey Academy, a special education academy located along the project corridor, is a transitional program that plays an important role in the community by providing middle and high school students who have experienced challenges adapting to a traditional school environment with the necessary support and tools to improve their academic and personal growth. As these students return to their home schools with marked improvement in behavior, attendance, and academics, the academy's impact extends well beyond its immediate students to the broader school district. Schools, like Richey Academy, are critical community institutions that require special consideration in transportation planning efforts. Crashes near schools can be especially disruptive to traffic flow and can create unsafe conditions for students and pedestrians. A study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that more than 20% of all crashes that result in fatalities involve school-age pedestrians. Additionally, the FHWA notes that crashes near schools can lead to increased congestion and delays, as well as reduced mobility for emergency vehicles. By implementing safety measures and improving the state of good repair of roads in the vicinity of schools, transportation planners can help ensure that these critical community institutions remain accessible and safe for all users. Furthermore, according to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), investments in the state of good repair of roadway infrastructure can significantly extend the service life of the roadway and reduce maintenance and operational costs over the long term. Additionally, the FHWA notes that infrastructure investments can also enhance safety, promote economic growth, and support job creation. Therefore, the proposed project is aligned with the goals and best practices identified by FHWA for improving the state of good repair of roadway infrastructure.
Planning Factors Criteria
Per FHWA crash rate guidance (https://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/local_rural/training/fhwasa14072/sec4.cfm) , the Million Vehicle Miles (MVM) for the years 2017-2021 is 62.72 and the existing fatality crash rate is 0.
Per FHWA crash rate guidance (https://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/local_rural/training/fhwasa14072/sec4.cfm) , the Million Vehicle Miles (MVM) for the years 2017-2021 is 62.72 and the existing serious injury crash rate is 1.07.
The proposed project aims to mitigate serious injuries and fatalities on a 1.34-mile Vision Zero High Injury Network corridor. The project will include several improvements (work types) that will collectively contribute to reducing the number of expected fatalities and serious injury crashes. Firstly, the project will add a center two-way left turn lane, which will provide a dedicated space for vehicles to turn, reducing the potential for collisions with other vehicles and pedestrians. This modification will help reduce the likelihood of head-on collisions, a major contributor to serious injury and fatal crashes. Secondly, signal modifications will be made, including leading pedestrian intervals, crosswalks, and ADA ramps. Leading pedestrian intervals give pedestrians a head start to cross the intersection before vehicle traffic is allowed to proceed. This modification increases the visibility of pedestrians and reduces the likelihood of collisions with vehicles. Crosswalks and ADA ramps improve the accessibility of the area and provide safe crossing opportunities for pedestrians, particularly those with mobility challenges. Thirdly, sidewalk improvements will be made, providing safer walking routes and separating pedestrians from vehicular traffic by a barrier. This will reduce the potential for pedestrian-vehicle conflicts and enhance safety for all users of the roadway. Additionally, dedicated bicycle facilities will be provided along a low-volume, low-speed roadway that parallels a major corridor, providing a safe space for cyclists. Finally, the project will improve freight movement, reducing the potential for conflicts between large trucks and other vehicles or pedestrians. By improving the safety and accessibility of the roadway for all users, the project aims to reduce the number of expected fatalities and serious injury crashes, contributing to the larger goal of achieving zero traffic fatalities and serious injuries.
Resiliency
Low
Medium
Harris County Engineering Department has extensive experience in developing and maintaining complete streets and roadway projects with resiliency measures. With a history of flooding events, Harris County has stormwater management practices and incorporates other climate resiliency measures to help improve the built and/or natural environment while enhancing resilience. In this proposed project, Harris County as the project sponsor has included specific improvements to reduce vulnerability to flooding. The project scope includes drainage improvements to mitigate flooding risks and improve the roadway's resiliency. This will be achieved by adding new drainage infrastructure and upgrading existing ones. The improvements in drainage infrastructure are projected to include adding additional stormwater inlets and pipes, installing new culverts, and upgrading existing ones. The new stormwater inlets will be designed to capture and convey runoff from the roadway, while the pipes and culverts will transport stormwater to the larger detention and retention ponds system. The drainage improvements will be designed to meet or exceed Harris County's stormwater design criteria, which are based on the latest standards and regulations for stormwater management - first adopted by Harris County Flood Control and the Office of County Engineer since 2011 (Harris County Low Impact Development & Green Infrastructure Design Criteria for Storm Water Management). The improved drainage infrastructure will reduce the risk of roadway flooding during intense rainfall events and enhance the roadway's resilience to future climate change impacts. In addition to the scoped drainage improvements, the project corridor was identified through a county-wide study (Emergency Transportation Measures Study) to be of high risk for local flooding in unincorporated areas of Harris County. E. Richey Rd scored 65 out of 100, noting multiple depressed sections as a major contributing factor to the high-flood risk label. Medium and high-risk road segments identified through this study are slated to receive engineering measures such as street signs, water gauges, flashers, remote sensors and AI-powered camera technology, among others. Overall, the proposed project documents the continued commitment of the County to reduce the local and regional vulnerability to flooding along the project corridor and improve the roadway's safety and accessibility during and after storm events. The incorporation of climate resiliency measures in the project design will ensure that the project is sustainable in the long term and can adapt to future changes in climate and rainfall patterns.
Access/Connectivity
7125
13330
Yes
Yes
Yes
Environmental Justice
7125
13330
2060
2655
333
4063
36.77
The proposed project will provide access management which creates accessibility and connectivity to nearby residents. Recommendations for increased mobility and expanded connectivity for all road users, including people in underserved communities, will be the primary focus of this project. The proposed project will make recommendations to create transit connectivity between affordable housing, schools, and employment centers to facilitate economic development opportunities. Additionally, the project scope includes sidewalk improvements, signal modifications with leading pedestrian intervals, crosswalks, and ADA ramps. These improvements will benefit vulnerable populations such as pedestrians with disabilities, older adults, and children by providing safer and more accessible routes for them to navigate the corridor. The addition of a center two-way left turn lane will also improve safety for all road users by reducing the risk of head-on collisions and rear-end crashes, which can disproportionately impact vulnerable populations. Furthermore, the inclusion of dedicated bicycle facilities along a low-volume, low-speed roadway that parallels a major corridor will provide safer and more accessible options for cyclists, including those who rely on bikes as a primary mode of transportation. Sidewalk improvements can have a significant impact on the quality of life for vulnerable populations. According to a study conducted by Smart Growth America, neighborhoods with better sidewalks and more walkable environments can have a positive economic impact on residents, particularly those in underserved communities. Increasing walkability in a neighborhood can increase property values by up to 15%, which can help to create more stable and resilient real estate markets. Additionally, sidewalks can also improve public health outcomes by encouraging physical activity and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Through the Built Environment Program Public Health Department, Harris County promotes health and equity through community planning and healthy community design, inclusive of infrastructure like sidewalks, and public transportation, among other man-made spaces and structures. Since 2015, the program has actively been contributing to build capacity, local knowledge and supporting opportunities that promote health equity. The inclusion of safe and accessible sidewalks can also have a tangible impact on the daily lives of residents. For example, in Los Angeles, the installation of new sidewalks in a low-income neighborhood led to a significant increase in foot traffic and an increase in sales for local businesses. Similarly, in Philadelphia, the installation of new sidewalks in a neighborhood with a high percentage of older adults led to increased social engagement and reduced isolation among residents. By improving access and connectivity for vulnerable populations through sidewalk improvements and other infrastructure upgrades, the proposed project can help to promote economic development and improve the quality of life for residents in underserved communities. These improvements can create more opportunities for residents to access education and job opportunities, which can help to promote economic mobility and reduce income inequality.
To mitigate or avoid adverse effects to vulnerable populations, as the project sponsor the County will ensure that the needs and concerns of the communities are elevated and communicated to departments and divisions tasked with performing the design and construction work. A community-centered approach will aid in envisioning solutions which mitigate barriers, meaningfully redresses inequities, and benefit economically disadvantaged communities. Harris County will utilize a diverse group of stakeholders in the development of the planning project. A representative Community Advisory Group will be created to oversee community-developed priorities and initiatives. This project will include grassroots and local community leaders, homeowner associations, advocacy groups for persons with disabilities, organizations advocating for equitable transportation networks, environmental and conservation groups, organizations representing persons with mental illness, and local and regional public agencies. Through established partnerships, the County will conduct meaningful engagement with the broader community as well as representatives of community groups through public meetings, workshops, and online surveys. The study will include active community engagement utilizing multi-lingual and accessible materials. The planning project will be guided by a Project Review Team consisting of major stakeholders. This overall strategy ensures that public stakeholders and vulnerable community members are integral to identifying potential impacts and developing mitigation strategies. To address concerns about displacement of vulnerable populations, the proposed project would be aligned with Harris County's Non-Housing Green Design Standards (NHGDS), and be shaped by a set of overarching, fundamental concepts that are the foundation behind Harris County's Imagination Zones. Compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods is a key concept that promotes the integration of new development with the existing community, preserving the neighborhood's character while enhancing the built environment. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is a fundamental concept that emphasizes the importance of providing equal opportunities for all members of the community. The proposed project seeks to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion by providing affordable housing and job opportunities for all residents, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or socio-economic status. Health and Wellbeing is a key concept that focuses on promoting physical and mental health among residents. The proposed project seeks to promote health and well-being by providing access to green spaces, recreational facilities, and pedestrian-friendly streets that encourage physical activity and healthy living. Fiscal Responsibility and Economic Development is a concept that emphasizes the importance of responsible budgeting and financial planning, while promoting economic growth and development. The proposed project seeks to promote fiscal responsibility and economic development by creating new jobs, attracting new businesses, and increasing property values. In addition to aligning with the Imagination Zone guidelines, the proposed project foresees comprehensive coordination with local authorities and agencies to minimize impacts to regional critical facilities, such as elementary schools, junior colleges, and trade schools within the 1/4-mile buffer of the project corridor. Measures to mitigate increased traffic congestion, isolation, exclusion, or separation can be considered during the design phase to ensure that the project benefits all members of the community, regardless of their mode of transportation. By prioritizing community engagement, leveraging existing guidelines and standards, and working closely with local authorities and agencies, the County is committed to delivering a project that benefits all members of the community and promotes a more sustainable and resilient future.
Impacts on Natural and Cultural Resources
The County is currently developing a Resiliency Plan to improve the resiliency of communities and infrastructure in the county. In addition, the County’s Vision Zero Action plan has committed to planning efforts (Complete Streets and multimodal thoroughfare planning) which will incorporate roadway safety considerations downstream of flood risk to people and properties; incorporating principles of sustainable urban development, mixed-use development patterns connected by multimodal transportation options to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. To avoid or mitigate impacts to natural resources, the proposed project will comply with all federal, state, and local regulations related to wetlands and flood plains. Harris County will implement best management practices to minimize potential impacts on these resources. In addition, the project will incorporate sustainable design practices such as green infrastructure and low-impact development to minimize the project's impact on natural resources. To address potential impacts to cultural resources, Harris County will coordinate the assessment and any necessary mitigation measures will be identified and implemented as part of the project design and construction process. The County will also follow all applicable federal and state regulations related to the protection of cultural resources. By adhering to these guidelines, Harris County aims to deliver a project that will provide significant benefits to the community while avoiding or mitigating potential adverse effects to natural and cultural resources.
Anticipated environmental outcomes include reduced vehicle miles traveled (VMT), creation of workforce housing in economically disadvantaged areas, more resilient real-estate values, enhanced recreational and community engagement opportunities, and cleaner air from less vehicle miles traveled. By improving linear infrastructure, the annual congestion and delay is potentially reduced by [1.45] hours per mile traveled over the life of the project. As the leading greenhouse gas emissions, an estimated air pollution emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2) are reduced by about [7] metric tons per day. In addition to the reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, the proposed project is expected to provide significant reductions in Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) emissions. The project's traffic management plan will implement measures to promote the use of alternative modes of transportation such as bike lanes, pedestrian walkways, and public transportation. By reducing the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the road, the project is expected to reduce NOx emissions by approximately [4.5] metric tons per year and VOC emissions by approximately [0.5] metric tons per year. Moreover, the reduction in congestion and delay as a result of the project can also translate to economic benefits. According to a study by the Texas Transportation Institute, traffic congestion cost Americans nearly $88 billion in 2019, including $17 billion in wasted time and fuel. By reducing congestion and delays, the project can save individuals and businesses time and money and contribute to the overall economic growth of the region. Additionally, the estimated reduction of 7 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions per day is equivalent to the carbon dioxide sequestered by about 3,700 mature trees over a 30-year period, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This not only helps to mitigate the impacts of climate change but also improves the overall air quality in the region. In conclusion, the proposed project is expected to have significant positive impacts on reducing air pollution emissions, including nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOC), as well as greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide (CO2). These reductions will result from reduced vehicle miles traveled, decreased congestion and delay, and the implementation of sustainable design features and best management practices. The County is committed to ensuring that the project is designed and constructed in a way that maximizes these benefits while minimizing any potential adverse impacts.
Innovation
Yes
The proposed project aims to implement new infrastructure technologies to enhance accessibility, mobility, multimodal, resiliency, reliability, and traffic operations. The project scope is slated to incorporate Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) to manage traffic flow and improve safety for all users, including motorists, transit users, pedestrians, and bicyclists. The project will also utilize the latest technologies for transit signal priority and real-time traveler information systems to enhance transit service reliability and make it more attractive to potential riders. Additionally, the project will feature complete streets design elements to enhance accessibility for all users, including those with disabilities, and promote walking and biking as viable transportation options. The project will also utilize green infrastructure solutions to increase resiliency and promote sustainable development. Through these measures, the proposed project seeks to improve transportation accessibility, mobility, and resiliency while enhancing traffic operations and reliability.
No