Houston Public Works says a proposed $75 million flood relief project at Memorial Middle School, part of Spring Branch ISD, would reduce flood risk for more than 1,600 structures. The project, called the TIRZ 17 Memorial City Area Detention Basin, includes underground stormwater storage on the north end of the school property. According to a city flyer, the system would hold more than 90 acre-feet of water, or roughly 29 million gallons, during heavy rain and release it gradually. The city's project map shows work along parts of Kingsride Lane, Gessner Road, Barryknoll Lane and Vindon Drive. The city estimates construction will begin in spring 2027 and finish in summer 2029. Other goals include improving roadway safety and pedestrian access and preserving as many trees as possible.
Several neighbors told FOX 26 they oppose the proposal. They declined on-camera interviews. They raised questions about construction traffic, the project's effect on flooding and possible disruptions to school activities. One couple said they lost their home to Hurricane Harvey. They compared the proposal with another project they described as similar and voiced concerns about how construction and drainage changes could affect the neighborhood. The couple, whose children attended Memorial Middle School, also asked whether work on the property would interfere with campus activities.