Frequently Asked Questions
GENERAL PROJECT INFORMATION
What are construction workdays?
The Contractor will work Monday through Saturday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. However, extenuating circumstances may require limited work to be conducted outside of standard hours.
What does Right of Way mean?
For most properties in the area, the City of Houston's project right-of-way will extend approximately 2 feet into the property from the back of the curb. However, stormwater and wastewater line replacements will leave some residents with open excavations in their yards at times. As a result of this and related Construction Improvement Projects, the City and the contractors are granted full access to this right-of-way. Once complete, the Contractor is required to restore the impacted area of the grounds to the City of Houston standards.
Will updates be provided?
Property managers or representatives are invited to attend the monthly contractor status meetings that will allow them to provide periodic updates to the community. Register and subscribe to the project page to receive the latest and greatest updates!
At some point, will I have issues accessing my driveway?
Individual driveways may be impacted for several days during the construction process. Once construction begins on a street, the Contractor will provide 72 hours' notice if they need to work on a specific driveway.
What is being done to verify that underground work is properly completed?
The City’s inspection team will ensure that the project is built to the design standards and meets all City codes and requirements.
What should I be prepared for if I have a sprinkler system?
We recommend taking pictures of the sprinkler heads in the “on” position, ensuring that the pictures clearly show the number and location of the sprinklers/heads in the right-of-way area near the street/curb. The construction company will make an effort to cap off your sprinklers in the right-of-way that will be disturbed, ensuring your sprinklers remain operational in the rest of the yard. The pictures should resolve any questions when it comes time for the construction company to repair them. It is entirely possible that your system, or at least certain zones, may stop working once your yard is dug up, as wires do occasionally get damaged or clipped. Be sure to have a garden hose and traditional sprinklers ready for use during this time.
SIDEWALKS, TREES & LIGHTING
What trees are being removed?
Trees to be removed are identified on the Tree Protection Plan. Diseased or dying trees will be removed. The City of Houston and the contractor will make an effort to identify trees that can be preserved during construction on a case-by-case basis.
Why have various markers and protective barriers been placed around trees and other areas?
Both the City of Houston and the contractor are taking precautions to protect existing trees and property to the best of their ability. Additional right-of-way markers may be placed along the curb and sidewalk/driveway area, and their removal causes added delays and expense. Please do not remove these markers or any protective precautions that have been provided to the adjacent property.
RESTORATION
How can the public be assured that all restoration will be done properly?
Restoration of adjacent properties, sprinkler systems, and other related tasks will occur once construction is complete. Additionally, the City will not approve final payment to the contractor until it has completed its assessment to ensure the restoration is sufficient.
What about French drains?
We also recommend that residents take pictures of any drains or PVC tubing leading to the sidewalk or curb, so you have evidence for replacement. During restoration, the construction company will replace the drains to the curb. If your drain only went to the sidewalk, they are likely to extend it to the curb or street.
What if my property has an improved, specialty driveway or walkway?
If this portion of your driveway or walkway is located in the right-of-way, the City is only required to return the driveway access points to the City of Houston codes and standards. If warranted, special provisions will be considered, but all related costs of improvements over and above the City of Houston standards will be at the sole cost of the property owner, by a contractor of your choice. One example is a decorative or pebbled walkway or driveway; the contractor will be unable to replace it with a like product, and the City will not guarantee this work.
What about landscaping near streets, sidewalks, and curbs?
If you have specific landscaping features that you would like to preserve, we suggest that property owners relocate these plant materials now. Grass will be restored in areas upon completion of all construction.