Public Works outlines $1.8 billion, 130‑project five‑year CIP; staff to provide digestible public summary

Public Works staff presented the draft five‑year Capital Improvement Plan (FY25–29) to the Planning and Zoning Commission, describing program areas, funding sources and near‑term projects the department will return to the commission to finalize.

Abby Morrison, Public Works Services director, said the CIP is a multi‑year planning document that typically catalogs capital projects above $50,000 and is updated annually as part of the budget process. Staff said the draft lists about 130 projects totaling roughly $1.8 billion across the five‑year horizon, with additional projects extending beyond year five in the full book.

Cindy bro, the CIP program manager, summarized program areas: Transportation, Water, Wastewater, Reclaimed Water, Drainage, Parks, Facilities and Technology (no technology projects listed this year). Staff identified funding sources including voter‑approved general obligation bonds, federal grants and WIFIA loans, tax increment reinvestment zones (TIRZ), impact fees, CAMPO funds and the Texas Water Development Board.

Operations director Evan G detailed the transportation portfolio (48 projects cited) and the planned Advanced Traffic Management System to monitor and manage signals. He highlighted intersection and corridor projects intended to reduce pinch points and improve traffic flow.

Utility director Brandon pett reviewed water and wastewater work: a water treatment plant expansion under construction, large transmission mains and rehabilitation in older neighborhoods, storage tank rehabs, interceptor projects to accommodate eastern growth and reclaimed‑water lines to serve parks and schools (including a project to serve 1849 Park and a branch along Weiss Lane).

Commissioners asked for clearer alignment of projects to the city’s strategic pillars, more explicit impact/outcome metrics for drainage and water projects (for example, how many homes or businesses would be removed from floodplains), a funding breakdown (grants vs. impact fees vs. other sources) and a short public‑facing summary explaining tax/fee implications. Staff said they have condensed summaries and will work to provide more digestible public materials and clearer justifications in project forms.

Staff noted no formal action was taken; the commission will see updates and a request for formal adoption with the FY24 budget cycle in September 2024, and staff expect to return on May 6 to request formal action on selected FY25 items.