Mid City Times

In October 2023, the City Council approved a 15% increase in the Stormwater utility fee for FY24, which took effect in January 2024. This decision is part of a series of increases, including those in FY20 and FY25, resulting in seven rate hikes since the utility's inception.

The capital improvement projects funded by these increases aim to deliver three major flood mitigation initiatives over 15 years: Upper Lebow, Linwood/W. Seventh Street, and Berry/McCart area. Progress has been made on these projects over the past fiscal year.

Half of the FY24 fee increase is allocated to maintenance improvements. A five-year plan is being implemented to enhance service levels. In FY24, Stormwater Field Operations launched a citywide culvert inspection program to better prioritize cleaning needs for approximately 4,000 culverts managed by the City. Five new staff members were hired for this initiative. By December 2024, 666 culverts had been inspected and 586 cleaned, surpassing initial expectations.

Another focus was on drainage pipe condition assessment with a newly formed seven-person team tasked with inspecting and planning rehabilitation needs. This program aims to quickly identify areas requiring attention and mitigate flooding risks due to debris build-up.

These efforts are part of broader initiatives that include expanding service levels in related programs during FY24.

The Stormwater fee increase funds multi-year phasing for capital improvement projects while enhancing maintenance services for culverts and pipes. The goal is to protect the community from flood-related risks by improving stormwater management infrastructure.

Fort Worth's Stormwater utility was established in 2006 following severe flooding incidents that resulted in fatalities and significant property damage two years earlier. Its mission remains focused on safeguarding people and property from harmful stormwater runoff.

For feedback on future priorities of the Stormwater program or to subscribe to updates from City News, residents are encouraged to participate through available channels.