This project was the second phase of parks implementation outlined in the District's Parks Master Plan, which was completed by EHRA in 2007. Utilizing the site of a recently demolished former wastewater treatment plant provided an opportunity to create a passive park space for District residents.
The facility features an activated sludge process system. Additionally, the facility is equipped with an emergency standby diesel generator.
EHRA completed preliminary engineering, phase one environmental site assessment and schematic development for the widening of Northpark Dr. between US 59 and Woodland Hills Dr. EHRA also provided program management, drainage analysis and design, traffic engineering, environmental documentation and schematic design for the roadway, as well as grade separation at the Loop 494/UPRR railroad crossing.
EHRA conducted traffic operations and access management studies for the Northpark Dr. corridor. This corridor is approximately 2.2 miles long and has major signalized and unsignalized intersections and driveways that access various subdivisions and industrial developments. These studies laid the groundwork for the widening of Northpark Dr. from a four-lane boulevard cross-section to a six-lane boulevard complete street. The new street design includes low impact development drainage, conventional drainage, a grade separation at the UPRR crossing with mechanically stabilized earth retaining walls, two at-grade crossings for bi-directional frontage access, reconstruction of two concrete bridges over a diversion channel, intersection improvements, a roadway-adjacent multiuse path and traffic signal improvements.
Drainage analysis and design included hydrologic and hydraulic studies of both existing and proposed conditions to demonstrate that proposed project components would not adversely affect the 100-year floodplain in the area. The roadway and traffic designs contained horizontal and vertical alignments, cross-sections, plan and profile, sidewalk and bicycle accommodations, intersection layouts, traffic control plans and signing and pavement markings.
As the program management firm, EHRA coordinated with TxDOT, UPRR, the City of Houston Council District E, COH Planning and Development Department, COH Public Works and Engineering Department, Montgomery County, Harris County, HCFCD and area residents throughout the project.
EHRA designed an expansion that implemented the installation of a new triplex lift station operating in conjunction with the existing duplex lift station.
EHRA planners, hydrologists and landscape architects worked together to propose an alternative use for the space, re-developing the basin into an amenity pond. EHRA carefully selected native plant materials for both their ability to survive in the harsh conditions of the basin as well as providing filtration for improved storm water quality.
In 1936, soon after the reelection of President Roosevelt, my Great Grandfather, Truman Edminster, Sr., opened the doors of Edminster Engineering. He had no way of knowing that the legacy he began would become the EHRA we know today. One that would carry on long after him and for the next three generations of his family.
Since that November day in 1936, as any long-standing institution does, Edminster Engineering has seen ups and downs, good times and challenging times. We have had the great fortune to be involved with countless projects that have helped shape the Greater Houston region into the booming metropolis it is today. We have been blessed to have the opportunity to work with some of the most respected and talented ‘greats’ in our industry whom with we have weathered the ups and downs together for nearly nine decades.
We begin a year-long celebration to the continuing heritage begun by my Great Grandfather and carried forward by Truman Edminster, Jr. (my uncle), Terry Russ, Jr. (my father) and Truman Edminster, III (who still serves the firm today). We have gained momentum into the 21st Century which will propel EHRA for decades to come. Some may wonder what is our ‘secret sauce’; it is our legacy of service.
EHRA has always been focused on the experience and satisfaction of our clients and our team members. As we continue to grow and mature as a firm, and prepare to seamlessly pass the baton to the next generation, our top priority will not change. We have built a culture around taking care of people. It is who we are, and it is what we do.
It is our ultimate hope, wish and desire to continue the EHRA legacy for the next 85 years and beyond. We are confident that together the team will achieve that goal.
Here’s to a great New Year. Blessings to all, and to your families, in 2021!