Work continues for a major improvement project along Poor Farm Ditch. The project is expected to replace deteriorating infrastructure and significantly increase the channel’s capacity to carry stormwater through the cities of West University Place and Southside Place.

The Harris County Flood Control District project includes widening and deepening approximately 3,100 linear feet of the existing concrete-lined channel between Bellaire Boulevard and University Boulevard. Construction is expected to take approximately four years, with crews completing the work in smaller sections to help limit impacts on nearby residents, businesses, and motorists.

Improving a Critical Drainage Channel

The existing concrete lining along Poor Farm Ditch is failing and needs to be replaced. Instead of restoring the channel to its current dimensions, the project is designed to increase the size of the channel, creating additional space for stormwater to move through the area.

At its widest point, Poor Farm Ditch is expected to increase from approximately 30 feet to 40 feet wide. The channel is also expected to be deepened from approximately 7.5 feet to 10 feet.

These improvements are expected to increase the channel’s effective flow area by more than 60 percent, from approximately 125 square feet to 200 square feet.

Because the channel runs through a densely developed area, the contractor will be required to complete construction in sections of approximately 500 feet at a time. This approach is intended to help reduce disruptions and allow work to progress safely within the limited project area.

Temporary Lane Closure on Holcombe Boulevard (as of 7/30/2026)

As construction moves forward, motorists traveling on Holcombe Boulevard between Edloe Street and Mercer Street should expect a temporary lane closure near Poor Farm Ditch.

The lane is expected to be closed from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and reopen during the evenings and on Sundays. This traffic pattern is expected to remain in place for more than a year.

Drivers should allow additional travel time, follow posted signs and use caution around workers and construction equipment.

The History Behind the Name

Poor Farm Ditch takes its name from the historic Harris County Poor Farm.

Harris County established the approximately 200-acre facility in 1894 as a working farm and shelter for economically-disadvantaged, disabled, and elderly residents. The drainage channel was dug directly along the eastern boundary of the farm property.

Today, the channel continues to serve an important drainage function in a heavily developed part of Harris County. The planned improvements are intended to help the channel continue carrying stormwater while meeting the needs of the surrounding community.

Visit HCFCD.org for additional project information, construction advisories, and future updates.