Houston buyout program faces new challenges due to flooding

As recent storms cause severe flooding in Southeast Texas, Harris County is struggling to expand its home buyout program, despite being a pioneer in managed takedown policies.

Jake Bittle reports for Grist.

In short:

• Harris County has long been a leader in relocating residents from flood-prone areas, but recent events reveal their limitations.
• The county has been purchasing homes along the San Jacinto River for three decades, but more than 1,600 homes remain at risk.
• Funding constraints and the sporadic nature of federal assistance hamper the county’s ability to respond more effectively.

Key quote:

“It’s basically the largest and deepest river in the county, and the flood plain is so deep that we really can’t take on projects to repair those areas.”

—James Wade, Home Buyout Leader, Harris County Flood Control District

Why it’s important:

As residents face recurring devastation to their homes and communities, the emotional and financial stakes are high. The challenge for Harris County is not only acquiring and demolishing high-risk properties, but also supporting displaced communities and ensuring their successful resettlement to safer areas.