San Antonio, TX –Today, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced $75,042,000 for the initiation, completion, and closeout of the Westside Creeks Ecosystem Restoration Project. The project aims to develop concepts for restoration of the Alazán, Apache, Martínez and San Pedro Creeks, maintain or enhance the current flood control components of these creeks, improve water quality, increase biological diversity, provide increased opportunities for people to enjoy these urban creeks and suggest the redevelopment potential along their margins.

The funding was awarded though the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and was made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment Act, which Congressman Cuellar helped pass in the House of Representatives.

“These creeks were originally built as part of a federal flood control project. The restoration project will ensure that the creeks are able to fulfill their intended purpose, and at the same time it will upgrade the quality of life in the community by providing a more enjoyable recreational space,” said Congressman Cuellar. “This project has been a priority since 2008 when it was initiated by the San Antonio River Authority, and it is very satisfying that we were able to secure the federal funding for it. I want to thank the San Antonio River Authority for their commitment and leadership in planning and advocating for the project.” 

“On behalf of the San Antonio River Authority, I want to thank Congressman Henry Cuellar for his leadership as a member of the Appropriations Committee and continued support of the Westside Creeks Ecosystem Restoration Project. We are pleased to announce full federal funding from the Army Corps of Engineers and we are thankful for Congressman Cuellar’s efforts to get us to this day. He has been a long-time friend of the River Authority and we greatly appreciate his consistent support. The ecological restoration and subsequent economic development will have immeasurable benefits to our community,” said San Antonio River Authority Chairman of the Board Jim Campbell.

The Westside Creeks are heavily urbanized watersheds located predominantly west and northwest (with a segment to the south) of downtown San Antonio, Texas. The Westside Creek Restoration Project is targeted to specific portions of the four Westside Creeks which were channelized by the USACE during the 1960s. The targeted portions include: 

The Alazán Creek: A segment that begins downstream of the Woodlawn Lake outfall and flows approximately 3.3 miles south southeast, ending at its confluence with Apache Creek.

The Apache Creek: A segment that begins at the bridge of General McMullen Road over Elmendorf Lake and flows approximately 4.2 miles southeast, ending at its confluence with San Pedro Creek. 

The Martínez Creek: A segment that begins at Hildebrand Avenue and flows approximately 2.8 miles south southwest, ending at its confluence with Alazán Creek. 

The San Pedro Creek: Approximately 3.8 miles long within the project area, the study segment begins immediately downstream of the San Pedro tunnel inlet structure (between the I-35 frontage and North Santa Rosa) and flows south to its connection with the San Antonio River. 

To learn more about the Westside Creeks Ecosystem Restoration Project, click HERE.

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Congressman Henry Cuellar is a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee. Previously, he served as a Texas State Representative and Texas Secretary of State.  Sign up to receive Congressman Cuellar’s E-mail Newsletters 
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