Study Considers the End of Concrete in Houston's White Oak Bayou

According to an article by Mihir Zaveri, "aging infrastructure and costly repairs are prompting the Harris County Flood Control District and [the Memorial-Heights Redevelopment Authority] to take a second look at the White Oak Bayou's design." White Oak Bayou's concrete lining embodies a familiar approach to stormwater infrastructure, but doesn't exactly make for the most appealing public space or natural environment.

So the flood control district and the redevelopment authority have launched a study to assess "whether portions of the concrete lining can be replaced or retooled while boosting the bayou's ability to handle floodwaters."

"Although the study is just getting underway and improvements could be years away if they occur at all, the study holds the promise of more trails, natural features and meandering channels for the bayou corridor, which in turn could spur economic development," adds Zaveri.