Haskoning has been confirmed as a key team member for the preliminary design of The Gate (Bolivar Roads Gate System) in Galveston, Texas. The system will be one of the largest storm surge barrier gates in the world, and once complete, is expected to shield over six million people.
Alongside lead consultant Jacobs, Haskoning will help deliver the Galveston Bay Barrier System, a central element of the Coastal Texas Project. The project has been commissioned by the Gulf Coast Protection District (GCPD) in response to the growing threat from devastating hurricanes, such as 2008’s hurricane Ike, which caused significant loss of life and over USD 30 billion in damage in the US. Galveston and Houston remain among the US cities facing the highest flood risk today, and in the decades ahead.
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Modelling and design studies
The engineering design will be led by Jacobs, a science-based consulting and advisory leader, with Haskoning as a key collaborator. The system is currently under design, but could include a 2.5-km dam with vertical lifting gates and two large moveable barriers. Responsible for integrating advanced hydro-dynamic modelling and design studies for the moveable gates, Haskoning will leverage its global experience and Dutch expertise in delivering complex storm surge barriers and coastal defences.
Haskoning has contributed to some of the world’s most high-profile storm surge barrier projects, including the Maeslant Barrier in Rotterdam. Through building information modelling (BIM), analysis of computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and parametric design, Haskoning will support the assessment of the project’s economic feasibility and streamline delivery, whilst maintaining high standards of safety and reliability.
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Resilience for residents and business
Upon completion, the Bolivar Roads Gate System will significantly reduce hurricane-induced flood risk to Galveston and Houston, protecting over six million residents, safeguarding an estimated USD 800 billion in regional assets and supporting operations along the Houston Ship Channel, one of the world’s busiest energy corridors. The design will mitigate the impact of storm surge on Galveston Bay.
Picture (top): Combi Wall (copyright GCPD).
