713-627-3200
Resiliency and State of Good Repair Questionnaire
Project Information
| Agency Name | Harris County Engineering |
| Project Title | CE King Parkway Project |
| Facility/Street/Highway | CE King Parkway |
| Limits | Tidwell to BW 8 |
| Description | Expansion from 2 to 4 lanes and addition of bicycle pedestrian trail |
| Timeframe | Short Term (0-5 Years) |
| Estimated Cost | $27,000,000.00 |
Investment Category-Focused Criteria
Roadway
Principal Arterial or Higher Functional Class
The CE King Parkway Reconstruction Project is designed to significantly reduce inoperability for significant periods of time due to damaged infrastructure, whether from natural causes or manmade incidents. Here's how the proposed project addresses these concerns: 1. Reconstruction and Widening of Infrastructure: By reconstructing the northbound roadway and reconstructing and widening the existing southbound roadway and bridge, the project ensures that the infrastructure can handle increased traffic loads and meets current standards. This reduces the likelihood of future damages and the need for frequent repairs, which can cause decreases periods of inoperability. 2. Upgrading to Current Traffic and Pedestrian Standards: The project includes upgrading the existing bridge and roadways to meet current traffic and pedestrian rail standards, which are designed to be more resilient against wear and tear, as well as potential impacts from accidents or natural events. This increases the durability of the infrastructure and reduces the frequency and duration of future closures for repairs. 3. Repairing Existing Channel Erosion and Abutment Undermining: By addressing current vulnerabilities such as channel erosion and abutment undermining, the project preemptively strengthens the infrastructure against potential damage from natural events like floods. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of sudden infrastructure failures that lead to extended inoperability. 4. Detention/Conveyance Channel Structure for Stormwater: Incorporating a detention/conveyance channel structure in the median, designed with Harris County Low Impact Development (LID) criteria, helps to mitigate the impact of stormwater discharge. This reduces the risk of flooding, a common cause of infrastructure damage and prolonged inoperability, by efficiently managing stormwater runoff. 5. Implementing Access Management Improvements: The focus on access management, including signal modifications and timing improvements, aims to enhance traffic flow and reduce congestion. By improving the overall efficiency of the transportation network, the project helps to lower the risk of accidents that can damage infrastructure and lead to long-term road closures. 6. Bicycle and Pedestrian Trails: Constructing dedicated trails for bicycles and pedestrians not only improves safety and connectivity but also reduces the stress on the main roadways. This separation of different types of traffic can help in minimizing the wear and tear on the road surface, thereby reducing the likelihood of damage. By incorporating these elements, the CE King Parkway Reconstruction Project aims to create a more resilient and durable infrastructure that can withstand both natural and manmade challenges, thereby ensuring continuous operability and reducing the risk of significant downtime due to damaged infrastructure.
15,691
70 years
Poor
No
No
Yes
CE King Parkway provides direct access to the designated feeder for a hurricane evacuation route, per the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA).
Other Investment Category Focused Criteria
No
The CE King Parkway Reconstruction Project incorporates several regional goods movement enhancement strategies within its scope, including: 1. Infrastructure Upgrades: Reconstruction and widening of roadways and bridges improve traffic flow, which is essential for the efficient movement of goods. Enhanced infrastructure supports heavier loads and reduces congestion. 2. Safety and Access Management Improvements: By focusing on signal modifications, signal timing improvements, and access management, the project aims to reduce accidents and improve traffic flow, which is crucial for the timely delivery of goods. 3. Stormwater Management: Implementing detention/conveyance channel structures for stormwater management helps prevent flooding, ensuring routes remain accessible even during adverse weather conditions. 4. Enhanced Connectivity: Adding bicycle and pedestrian trails improves overall regional connectivity, indirectly supporting goods movement by reducing vehicular traffic congestion on main thoroughfares. Although not classified as a critical freight corridor or a local/regional/state truck route, CE King plays an important role in alleviating congestion on facilities which provide first-mile last-mile connectivity to freight generators. The project improvement strategies align with broader regional goals of improving infrastructure resilience, safety, and efficiency, which are crucial for the smooth operation of goods movement networks.
CE King Parkway is a two (2) lane “bottleneck” from southbound Beltway 8 East (BW8E) to the US 90 freeway corridor. The CE King Parkway arterial south of Tidwell Road is a four (4) lane boulevard section. Tidwell is a 4-lane boulevard section from CE King Parkway east to southbound Beltway 8 East. The proposed CE King Parkway added capacity construction would complete the arterial grid and add resiliency to emergency travel options. From US 90 Business South to the US 90 Freeway, CE King Parkway is referred to as South Lake Houston Parkway. It is a principal arterial on the National Highway System route (FM 526), providing a vital area transportation link parallel to BW8E. Approximately 15,691 AADT is generated by truck traffic from heavy commercial development south of Tidwell Road and local traffic from subdivisions and schools. Existing residential development between Garrett Road and Tidwell Road has caused local road intersections with CE King Parkway to reach maximum capacity. Over 30 percent of existing platted lots remain to be built out within project limits. Also located on or adjacent to CE King Parkway project limits are the CE King Middle School, HM Carroll Elementary School, Michael R. Null Middle School, and the headquarters of Sheldon ISD. Additionally, Sheldon ISD completed construction between 2019 - 2020 of a replacement High School, Athletic Complex, and Sheldon Lake Elementary School on a 200-acre location south of Garrett Road and between CE King Parkway and Beltway 8 East SB FR. The school complex has two primary access points onto CE King Parkway. The new high school has a 3500-student capacity with a staff of approximately 300 and is served by 60 buses. The stadium parking facilitates 3500 vehicles. The primary project objectives are improved accessibility and mobility of people and goods on the regional thoroughfare and freeway network through increased roadway capacity and the addition of bicycle and pedestrian trails. Providing the additional northbound lanes addresses the capacity deficiency associated with the area “bottleneck” relative to increasing traffic volumes and higher capacity south of Tidwell Road, thereby making more effective use of all traffic lanes while gaining an inherent safety benefit. The project will provide sufficient left turn storage at major intersections: Garrett Road, East Little York Road, and Tidwell Road. Adding the boulevard section will provide significant safety to the access/egress to HM Carroll Elementary School. Also, the residential area collector street intersections at Fern Forest and Stonefield Manor Drive will enhance the safety and efficiency of operations. In addition to facilitating access and mitigation of traffic congestion associated with the new Sheldon High School and District Stadium, the following project objectives will also be achieved: 1. Enhancement of the area freight network of roads 2. Both vehicular and bike/pedestrian Level of Service (LOS) will be increased 3. Completing the whole boulevard section for the local arterial network enhances potential future bus transit expansion. 4. Reduction of truck VMT on adjacent parallel arterials (John Ralston Road and Southbound Beltway 9 East).
The CE King Parkway Reconstruction Project aims to improve traffic operations through infrastructure enhancements. Below are ways the proposed project improves traffic operations: 1. Roadway and Bridge Reconstruction and Widening: By reconstructing and widening the existing roadways and bridges, the project aims to increase capacity, reduce congestion, and improve traffic flow for both northbound and southbound traffic. This is particularly important for accommodating growing traffic volumes and improving the efficiency of goods movement and commuter traffic. 2. Upgrades to Current Standards: The project includes upgrading the existing infrastructure to meet current traffic and pedestrian rail standards, enhancing safety and operational efficiency. These upgrades are essential for ensuring that the roadway can handle modern traffic demands and reduce the likelihood of accidents that can disrupt traffic flow. 3. Stormwater Management Features: Incorporating detention/conveyance channel structures to manage stormwater effectively helps prevent flooding, which can significantly impact traffic operations by causing road closures and delays. By mitigating the impact of stormwater discharge, the project ensures that the roadway remains passable even during adverse weather conditions, maintaining consistent traffic operations. 4. Access Management Improvements: The project focuses on access management strategies, including constructing bicycle and pedestrian trails, which can reduce vehicular congestion on the main roadway. Improving connectivity and safety for non-motorized users indirectly benefits motorized traffic by segregating different modes of transportation and reducing potential conflicts. 5. Intersection Improvements: The project incorporates intersection improvements, such as adding turn lanes, upgrading signalization, and improving signage. These improvements are critical for reducing bottlenecks and enhancing the overall efficiency of the transportation network. The CE King Parkway Reconstruction Project, through these comprehensive infrastructure improvements, aims to provide a more efficient, safe, and resilient roadway that supports the needs of the community and the region's economic development. The project significantly improves traffic operations by addressing current and future traffic demands.
The CE King Parkway Reconstruction Project significantly improves walking and biking conditions by enhancing safety, accessibility, and connectivity for non-motorized users. The project scope includes constructing new bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure in the project facility and its vicinity. The proposed project offers the following benefits for active transportation: 1. Sidewalks and Pedestrian Standards Upgrades: The project includes upgrading existing sidewalks and pedestrian facilities to meet current standards. This ensures safer and more accessible pathways for pedestrians and accommodates a wide range of users, including those with disabilities. 2. Bridges with Pedestrian Amenities: As part of the roadway and bridge reconstruction and widening efforts, the project incorporates pedestrian amenities on the new and upgraded bridges. This will provide safe, dedicated spaces for pedestrians, ensuring they are separated from vehicular traffic, which significantly enhances safety for walkers. 3. Hike and Bike Trails: One of the project's standout features is the provision of recreational amenities such as hikes and bike trails. These trails serve as a means of transportation and promote physical activity and connectivity between neighborhoods, schools, parks, and other key community destinations. 4. Connectivity and Access Management Improvements: The project's focus on access management includes improving bicycle and pedestrian trails to create safer and more direct routes for non-motorized users. By addressing connectivity issues, the project ensures that walking and biking are viable and attractive options for short trips, reducing reliance on motor vehicles and traffic congestion. 5. Safety Enhancements: The project significantly improves the safety of walkers and bikers by constructing bicycle and pedestrian trails and other related infrastructure. These trails are designed to provide safe, dedicated spaces away from vehicular traffic, reducing the risk of accidents and making walking and biking more appealing for recreational and commuting purposes. The CE King Parkway Reconstruction Project's inclusion of new and improved bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure represents a comprehensive approach to enhancing non-motorized transportation. By providing safe, accessible, and connected pathways, the project not only improves the quality of life for residents but also contributes to the sustainability and health of the community. This focus on improving walking and biking conditions aligns with broader goals of promoting active transportation, reducing vehicular emissions, and fostering a more livable and environmentally friendly urban environment.
The CE King Parkway Reconstruction Project aims to significantly improve conditions for future transit services in several ways, directly and indirectly benefiting both existing and potential future bus transit expansion: 1. Increased Roadway Capacity: By adding northbound lanes and addressing the "bottleneck" from southbound Beltway 8 East to the US 90 freeway corridor, the project will increase the overall capacity of CE King Parkway. This expansion is crucial for reducing traffic congestion, which in turn can lead to more reliable and efficient transit services. Buses will be able to maintain schedules more effectively due to smoother traffic flow. 2. Enhanced Safety and Accessibility: The addition of a boulevard section and improved intersections (with sufficient left turn storage at major intersections like Garrett Road, East Little York Road, and Tidwell Road) will enhance safety for all road users. Safe and accessible roadways are essential for vehicles to operate efficiently. 3. Facilitation of Future Bus Transit Expansion: By completing the entire boulevard section for the local arterial network, the project lays the groundwork for potential future bus transit expansion. Improved road infrastructure can accommodate increased bus routes or services, facilitating better connectivity and coverage of the transit network in the area. 4. Improved Level of Service (LOS) for Vehicular and Bike/Pedestrian Traffic: Increasing the Level of Service for both vehicular and bike/pedestrian traffic indirectly benefits area transit services by improving the overall transportation ecosystem in the area. Enhanced pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure encourages multi-modal transportation, potentially increasing overall transit ridership by making it easier for people to reach bus stops or stations. 5. Reduction of Truck VMT on Adjacent Parallel Arterials: By reducing truck vehicle miles traveled (VMT) on adjacent parallel arterials, the project will decrease congestion on these roads, creating a more favorable environment for future transit vehicles that might use these routes. The CE King Parkway Reconstruction Project improves conditions for future transit services by enhancing roadway capacity, safety, and accessibility, laying the foundation for transit expansions, and creating a more integrated and efficient transportation network. These improvements will support the potential development of a more robust and comprehensive transit system in the future.
Planning Factors Criteria
0.630
3.779
The proposed CE King Parkway project aims to reduce expected fatalities and serious injury crashes through specific improvements and work types included in its scope. Based on the Crash Reduction Factors (CRF) in the H-GAC safety benefits calculation template, the interventions included in the CE King Parkway Reconstruction Project may contribute to reducing fatalities and serious injury crashes by a substantial rate. The work types and corresponding crash reduction factors include: -Install Traffic Signal: 35% reduction - Aims to reduce intersection-related crashes. -Add Left Turn Lane: 25% reduction - Aims at reducing intersection-related crashes. -Construct Paved Shoulders (> 5ft): 40% reduction - Aims at non-intersection related (roadway related) crashes. -Convert 2-Lane Facility to 4-Lane Divided: 45% reduction - Focuses on non-intersection related (roadway related) crashes. By applying these CRFs to the project's specific improvements, a significant potential reduction in fatalities and serious injuries, >50% in aggregate, is demonstrated. For example, if the project includes substantial intersection improvements and sidewalk installations across a problematic area, the combined effect of these interventions could lead to a notable decrease in the overall crash rate and severity.
Resiliency
Low
Low
The CE King Parkway project includes targeted improvements designed to significantly reduce the area's vulnerability to flooding. These improvements are part of a comprehensive approach to enhance the roadway's resilience against water-related issues and ensure its long-term usability and safety. The specific improvements included in the project scope that contribute to this objective are: 1. Complete Drainage System with Low Impact Development (LID): The project aims to design and construct a drainage system incorporating LID techniques. LID strategies are focused on managing stormwater as close to its source as possible. They include a variety of practices that use or mimic natural processes to infiltrate, evapotranspire, or reuse stormwater on the site where it is generated. By integrating LID into the drainage design, the project ensures more effective water management, reducing runoff volumes and improving water quality. This system is critical for mitigating the effects of heavy rainfall and preventing water from accumulating on the roadway, which can lead to flooding. 2. Sidewalks and Enhanced Roadway Design: While primarily aimed at improving accessibility and safety for pedestrians, including sidewalks along both sides of the roadway and designing a 4-lane concrete boulevard section also contribute to the project's flood resilience. These features are part of an overall roadway design that considers proper grading, elevation, and surface materials to facilitate water drainage away from the road surface, minimizing the potential for water to pool and cause flooding. 3. Accounting for Existing Sheet Flow: The project acknowledges the existing natural drainage patterns, including sheet flow directions, which generally run West to East and North to South. By designing the project to account for these natural water movement patterns, the improvements ensure that the new infrastructure works with, rather than against, natural processes to enhance drainage efficiency and reduce the likelihood of flooding. These improvements collectively enhance the CE King Parkway's ability to withstand and quickly recover from heavy rain events, significantly reducing the area's vulnerability to flooding. By incorporating advanced drainage systems, and careful roadway design that respects natural water flow patterns, the project ensures long-term resilience and safety for all roadway users.
Access/Connectivity
9,238
21,121
Yes
Yes
Yes
Environmental Justice
9,238
21,121
3,422
1,287
314
2,356
45.1
The CE King Parkway Reconstruction Project is poised to deliver significant benefits to vulnerable populations, including safety improvements, and enhanced pedestrian and bicycle facilities. These improvements are designed to ensure safer, more accessible, and more efficient transportation options for all users, particularly those who rely heavily on non-vehicular modes of transport or who may face greater risks in the transportation system. Here's how the project provides these benefits: 1. Safety Improvements: The project includes several enhancements that directly benefit pedestrians, cyclists, and school children. The project aims to reduce the likelihood of accidents involving these groups by addressing known crash locations and implementing proven safety measures. This includes installing traffic signals, improving traffic signals, and adding pedestrian signals at critical intersections. These measures are expected to significantly reduce intersection-related crashes, making the roadway safer for all users. 2. Construction of Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities: One of the critical components of the CE King Parkway Project is the construction of 5-foot sidewalks along the length of the project on both sides of the roadway. This improvement provides a safe and dedicated space for pedestrians and cyclists, reducing the risk of pedestrian-vehicle conflicts, and encourages walking and cycling as viable and safe transportation options. Sidewalks serve as critical connections to schools, residential areas, and commercial centers, enhancing overall mobility and accessibility for vulnerable populations. Moreover, providing this critical infrastructure improves health outcomes through recreational and exercise use and lowers air pollutant emissions. 3. Low Impact Development (LID) for Drainage: Incorporating LID techniques in the project's drainage system indirectly benefits vulnerable populations by mitigating the risk of flooding. This ensures that roadways and pathways remain accessible and safe during and after heavy rain events, reducing the risk of accidents related to wet or flooded conditions and maintaining continuous access to essential services. 4. Landscaping: The project's commitment to preserving existing trees not only contributes to the area's aesthetic value but also provides environmental benefits such as shade and cooling, improving the walking and cycling experience for vulnerable populations. By focusing on these key areas, the CE King Parkway Project demonstrates a comprehensive approach to enhancing the safety, accessibility, and overall well-being of vulnerable populations within the project area. These improvements are expected to contribute to a more inclusive and equitable transportation system that serves the needs of all community members.
The CE King Parkway Project is designed with a comprehensive approach to avoid or mitigate adverse effects on vulnerable populations, focusing on several key aspects, including bodily health, environmental preservation, community cohesion, and access to facilities and services. Below are ways the project addresses these aspects: 1. Safety Improvements: By incorporating safety measures such as improved traffic signals, pedestrian signals, and dedicated left turn lanes, the project significantly reduces the risk of bodily impairment, infirmity, illness, or death resulting from traffic accidents. These measures aim to protect all roadway users, including vulnerable populations like pedestrians, cyclists, and schoolchildren, by creating a safer transportation environment. 2. Drainage Improvements with Low Impact Development (LID): The project includes a complete drainage system featuring LID techniques to manage stormwater effectively, thereby reducing the risk of air, noise, or water pollution and soil contamination. LID practices also help maintain the natural flow of water, thus preserving the artificial and natural resources adjacent to the roadway. This approach minimizes the project's environmental footprint and protects the health of nearby communities. 3. Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities: The construction of 5' sidewalks along both sides of the roadway enhances accessibility and promotes healthier, non-motorized modes of transportation. These facilities improve the physical well-being of the community by encouraging walking and cycling, contributing to overall better health outcomes and reducing the risk of chronic diseases associated with sedentary lifestyles. 4. Community Cohesion and Economic Vitality: By upgrading the roadway to a 4-lane concrete boulevard and improving the overall infrastructure, the project fosters better connectivity within the community. Enhanced transportation links support local businesses, schools, and services, thereby contributing to the economic vitality and cohesion of the community. Improved access to amenities and employment opportunities also helps in mitigating adverse impacts on employment and ensuring equitable distribution of transportation benefits. 5. Preservation of Natural and Aesthetic Values: The project's commitment to keeping as many trees as possible and integrating LID drainage solutions demonstrates a mindful approach to preserving the area's aesthetic values and natural resources. This consideration helps maintain the community's character, ensuring that the project contributes positively to the local environment and the well-being of its residents. 6. Avoidance of Displacement: The project design and planning process have considered minimizing displacement of persons, businesses, farms, or non-profit organizations. By carefully considering the project's footprint and working within existing right-of-way boundaries where possible, the project aims to prevent or significantly reduce the need for displacements, thereby avoiding or mitigating one of the most direct adverse effects on vulnerable populations. The CE King Parkway Project demonstrates a comprehensive approach to minimizing adverse effects on vulnerable populations through these targeted improvements and considerations. It prioritizes safety, environmental stewardship, community cohesion, and equitable access to transportation benefits, ensuring that the project meets its immediate objectives and contributes to the long-term well-being and resilience of the community it serves.
Impacts on Natural and Cultural Resources
The Wetland Delineation Report prepared by Terracon Consultants, Inc. outlines the methodology and findings from a study to identify Waters of the United States (WOTUS) within a specific Right of Way (ROW) according to the Clean Water Act guidelines. Preliminary data, including maps and aerial photographs, were reviewed, complemented by a field survey on February 6, 2019, to identify potential WOTUS and wetlands, following the methods described in the 1987 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Manual and the 2010 Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain Regional Supplement. During the site visit, three types of areas were observed: linear (drainage ditches), wetland, and upland areas. Twelve artificial drainage ditches over 7 miles were found, with Ditch K potentially considered jurisdictional due to its hydrologic connection to a tributary, whereas the others were likely non-jurisdictional. Ten wetland features (Wetlands A-J) were identified as palustrine scrub-shrub wetlands. These were deemed likely non-jurisdictional and isolated, possibly not requiring Section 404 permitting. Upland areas were also reviewed and determined not to meet the three wetland criteria; hence, they were not considered wetlands. Documents have been submitted to the USACE for jurisdictional determination and discussion of permitting options before construction in potentially jurisdictional areas. USACE permits are needed for impacts to the waters of the U.S. under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act. Additionally, an Archeological Assessment conducted by Terracon revealed it unlikely that intact prehistoric or historic archeological deposits are present within the project's Area of Potential Effect (APE), based on a review of various resources, including USDA NRCS soil data, the Geologic Atlas of Texas, the TxDOT Potential Archeological Liability Map, and other historical databases and maps. This comprehensive assessment aimed to gauge the likelihood of preserving archeological sites within the project area, indicating a low potential for significant findings.
Nox Emission Reductions (tons) 0.55; VOC Emission Reductions (tons) 3.13
Innovation
Yes
The proposed project aims to implement new infrastructure technologies to enhance accessibility, mobility, multimodalism, 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, pedestrians, and bicyclists. The project will also utilize the latest technologies for traffic signal priority and real-time traveler information systems to enhance service reliability and make it more attractive to potential riders. A The project will also utilize green infrastructure solutions to increase resiliency and encourage sustainable development. Through these measures, the proposed project seeks to improve transportation accessibility, mobility, and resiliency while enhancing traffic operations and reliability.
Yes
The proposed traffic signals and traffic controllers will be equipped with technologies and standards that will be compatible with autonomous and connected vehicles.