HCFCD Demolishes Flooded, Burned, Vandalized Townhomes on Aqua Vista in Forest Cove Today
Today, Harris County Flood Control contractors demolished the townhomes on Aqua Vista Street in Forest Cove. Flooded during Harvey, then abandoned and vandalized, they burned the week before July 4th this year.
Update on Remainder of Buyouts
HCFCD has purchased 80% of the townhomes on Aqua Vista St., Marina Drive and Timberline Court. There are 16 units remaining to purchase.
“We’ve demolished three buildings and four more will be demolished by the end of November,” said Matt Zeve, Deputy Director of Harris County Flood Control. “To date, we’ve spent approximately $4.1 million for all costs (appraisal, purchase price, closing cost, relocation, and demolition).”
“A FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) resulting from Hurricane Harvey is partially funding this acquisition. 75% of the cost is from the federal HMGP grant and 25% (plus some relocation costs) is funded by HCFCD. The estimated costs of the townhome buyouts, once complete, will total approximately $5M.” said Zeve.
“HCFCD hopes to complete all acquisition and demolition by the end of 2020,” he said.
Bittersweet Memories
Despite persistent flooding problems, right up until Harvey, many families loved the river lifestyle that these townhomes offered. Since then, they have become an eyesore, a haven for squatters, and a dumping ground. While many former owners and renters will lament the loss of these townhomes, they will also understand the need to move on.
At tonight’s Town Hall meeting at the Kingwood Community Center, the Houston Parks Board will talk about plans for this area. They include a green belt trail to connect the Spring Creek greenway to the Kingwood trail network through Forest Cove.
The Town Hall meeting starts at 6:30 pm.
Posted by Bob Rehak on 10/17/2019 with help from Matt Zeve, Harris County Flood Control
779 Days since Hurricane Harvey and 28 since Imelda
