Fort Worth secures $90 million in state support to fast-track flood protection for Lebow Channel

Fort Worth, Texas – The City of Fort Worth is making a major leap forward in its mission to “Protect People and Property from Harmful Stormwater Runoff,” with the announcement of $90 million in state financial assistance for the Upper Lebow Channel Flood Mitigation Project. The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) approved the funding on December 16, 2025, bringing much-needed momentum to one of the city’s most flood-prone corridors.

Long-Term Problem Gets a Long-Awaited Solution

The Lebow Channel corridor, located in Council District 2, has suffered from repeated and devastating floods for years. Since 2009, the area has experienced over 100 flood incidents and five confirmed fatalities. Roughly 300 homes remain within the 100-year floodplain, placing residents at ongoing risk during severe weather.

The new investment from the state includes $18.75 million in grant funding and $71.25 million in zero-interest financing through the Flood Infrastructure Fund (FIF). This funding will allow the city to begin major improvements in 2028, aiming for completion by 2033.

According to Councilmember and Mayor Pro Tem Carlos Flores, “I continue working with the City’s Stormwater Program to work out a multiphase plan to mitigate flooding in the Lebow Channel. To date, $33M in Lebow Channel improvements have significantly reduced the amount of flooding, thereby increasing public safety. I enthusiastically welcome the news of the Texas Water Development Board-approved $90M funding from the State Flood Infrastructure Fund Grant for the Upper Lebow Flood Mitigation Improvements Project!”

Project Scope and Community Benefits

The Upper Lebow Channel Project will include:

• A 20-acre detention basin with green space and vegetation

• 1.5 miles of channel widening and rehabilitation

• Upgrades to bridges and culverts at several crossings

These enhancements will not only improve flood capacity but also bring recreational value, water quality improvements, and enhanced wildlife habitat to the area. Importantly, the upgrades will also reduce swift-water rescues, improve emergency access, and protect property values by removing homes from the floodplain.

The work addresses a 75-year-old channel system that no longer meets the demands of a modern urban landscape. By rebuilding with current standards, Fort Worth is positioning itself to better handle the storm events of the future.

Strategic Financing Reduces Long-Term Costs

The $90 million state funding will save Fort Worth approximately $52.4 million in interest costs. Additionally, the City has applied for a $50 million FEMA Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant, with a decision expected by February. If awarded, this federal grant would further reduce the zero-interest loan amount required from the state.

Without this combination of state and potential federal assistance, Fort Worth would have been forced to phase the project over decades, relying solely on its Stormwater Utility Fee, currently averaging $7.29 per month per residential customer.

Next Steps and Timeline

• FEMA Grant Decision: Expected by February 2026

• Finalize TWDB Funding Agreement: Due by June 16, 2026

• Design and Modeling: Begins in 2026 and continues through 2027

• Construction Start: Early 2028

• Estimated Completion: Early 2033

Property acquisition is already underway, including voluntary purchases and potential condemnation of nine acres near Diamond Hill Estates for the detention basin. Design work will include hydraulic modeling, structural upgrades, and easement planning, with efforts made to stay within existing rights-of-way where possible.

A Resilient Future for Fort Worth

With this major funding boost, Fort Worth’s Stormwater Program can move forward with meaningful infrastructure upgrades that will protect lives, improve neighborhoods, and make the city more resilient to future floods. The Lebow Channel project is not just about controlling water — it’s about delivering safety, stability, and peace of mind to a community that has waited far too long for relief.