Sulphur Branch Channelization Project Number 031

The Sulphur Branch Channelization Project Number 031 in Bedford, Texas, is one of 29 drainage projects included in a $70 million package of improvements that are still in progress. It is also one of four major channelization projects on this stream. The project goals include storm-water management, floodplain integration, soil erosion control, and slope stabilization. Located in a residential area of a nearly 50,000 population "bedroom community" in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, the project has involved many water management challenges, including ease of maintenance for the city. The existing stream had tall, moderately steep side slopes that were subject to significant erosion. The stream had migrated out of the drainage easement on many lots. Further erosion was threatening to take more of the residents' property if left unchecked. To help ensure that problem areas were addressed, Bedford's citizens were invited to provide input during the design process. The hydrology of the urban watershed was computed in a Master Drainage Study in 1992. The watershed encompassed primarily residential land use, some commercial development and a limited amount of undeveloped land. The soils were generally a mixture of clays and sands. Since the area was nearly fully developed and had moderately steep slopes, the stormwater runoff within the watershed was quick and severe during a rainfall event.