News Release
February 22, 2007
On February 22, 2007, Gary N. Oradat, Executive Director of the Coastal Water Authority gave a presentation about the Luce Bayou Project to the Southeast Chapter of the Texas Section of the American Water Works Association (TAWWA). CWA was also represented by Mr. Jerry L. Berry, CWA Operations Manager. The Southeast Chapter provides a forum for discussion of water resource topics such as interbasin transfer projects like the Luce Bayou Project.
Following the presentation, a Kellogg Brown & Root representative asked if Trinity River water from the Luce Bayou project would improve Lake Houston water quality. Mr. Oradat responded that water quality studies indicated that there would not be any significant improvement in water quality. A North Harris County Regional Water Authority representative asked about potential cost benefits relative to project scheduling. Mr. Oradat said CWA’s planning goal is a 2015 construction completion date to ensure water delivery to regional water authorities by the required 2020 mandated conversion from groundwater to surface water to avoid costly penalties. Mr. Oradat also responded to a City of Houston representative’s question about potential project impacts on future development of adjacent areas. Judging from the size of the audience and further discussions afterwards, the presentation was well-received.