Central Texas counties may begin receiving up to $1.25 million each in state funding to install flood warning sirens in the coming weeks and months, officials announced on December 16.
This funding comes less than six months after historic flooding during the July 4 weekend devastated parts of Central and West Texas, claiming at least 137 lives. In response, state lawmakers approved legislation requiring 30 counties included in a July disaster declaration to implement flood warning systems using $50 million in state grants.
Counties required to install the systems include Bexar, Comal, Guadalupe, Travis, and Williamson, among others.
Legislative Action and Funding Details
Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 3 in September, directing the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) to oversee the grant program and establish rules for warning system installations. TWDB staff said during a December 16 meeting that most of the $50 million would go directly to counties, with a small portion reserved for administering the program.
Each county could receive up to $1.25 million, according to the TWDB. Counties seeking additional funding will need approval from the board’s three members. Counties must submit detailed project plans outlining how they will use the funds, which may include installing sirens, rain and flood gauges, solar panels, as well as conducting local flood education and training programs.
Preparing Communities for Future Floods
After signing SB 3, Governor Abbott emphasized that the state aims to ensure flood-prone communities are better prepared for future events, particularly to protect campers and visitors. “If an event like this does occur again, those warning systems will go off in a way that will do everything possible to protect lives,” Abbott said on September 5.
The TWDB sent grant agreements to the 30 counties on December 17. The agreements allow counties to access up to 25 percent of the funding immediately after project approval, with additional funds available as project costs are documented. Before approval, each county’s commissioners court must formally accept the financial assistance and submit detailed project plans, including infrastructure, budgets, and timelines.
Collaboration and Project Timeline
Counties may work with local governments, river authorities, and other entities to implement the warning systems. During the December 16 meeting, TWDB officials said the board intends to begin approving projects and distributing funds by mid-January. TWDB Chair L’Oreal Stepney emphasized the importance of making funding available as soon as communities are ready.
Some counties are still conducting planning studies to determine the type and placement of flood warning infrastructure. In Kerr County, which experienced severe flooding on July 4, local entities are collaborating to strengthen preparedness for future storms.
The Upper Guadalupe River Authority (UGRA) is coordinating with cities, unincorporated communities, first responders, utility companies, and residents to develop a flood warning system and improve emergency communications. Currently, UGRA does not have flood warning sirens. Local officials aim to have sirens and other infrastructure operational by May 1, with project approvals expected by January 15 and contracts signed by March 1.
Community Impact and Support
During the December 16 board meeting, Lance Parisher, whose 20-month-old son died when the family home was swept away by the Guadalupe River, spoke in support of the flood warning devices. “I hope these will save lives in the future. Thank you so much for swiftly releasing these funds,” Parisher said.
Stepney highlighted that stories like Parisher’s reinforce the importance of quickly implementing the program and working closely with communities to prevent future tragedies.
