Fort Bend County Approves Urgent Eminent Domain for Road Projects

UPDATE: Fort Bend County commissioners have just authorized the use of eminent domain for three critical road and drainage projects following a 5-0 vote earlier today. This urgent move aims to enhance infrastructure in Precincts 3 and 4, specifically targeting improvements along West Airport Boulevard, West Bellfort Avenue at State Highway 6, and Old Richmond Road near Voss.

The decision comes as traffic congestion and flooding have escalated in these areas, prompting officials to act swiftly. Commissioner Andy Meyers described the action as “a public necessity,” highlighting the importance of moving forward without delays caused by unresolved land acquisition issues.

As part of the approved plan, the county will acquire small parcels of land necessary for widening intersections and enhancing drainage systems. The goal is to prevent flooding in nearby communities while improving overall traffic flow. The projects have been backed by voter-approved mobility bonds, which emphasize the public’s demand for better infrastructure.

The county’s official agenda outlines three specific projects: Project No. 20402 for West Airport Boulevard, Project No. 20401 for West Bellfort at SH 6, and Project No. 20409 for Old Richmond Road. The agenda formally declares the acquisition of property as a public necessity, granting the county attorney the authority to initiate the acquisition process and compensate affected property owners.

Texas law mandates that before any condemnation filing, an appraisal must be conducted, alongside a bona fide good faith effort to negotiate with property owners. These legal protections are detailed under the Landowner’s Bill of Rights, ensuring that affected individuals are informed and provided with options.

In recent years, Fort Bend County has increasingly relied on eminent domain to facilitate transportation projects, with approximately 13.56 acres acquired in the latest reporting period by the TXDOT Houston District. As the county continues to grow, officials are prioritizing drainage and mobility improvements, fueled by federal and local funding.

Next steps for property owners include awaiting the release of parcel maps and right-of-way plats, which will be published once the county engineer completes surveys and schedules for acquisition. If negotiations for voluntary sales fail, the county can proceed with a condemnation petition, leading to the appointment of special commissioners to determine compensation. Property owners will have the right to appeal any award made by these commissioners in district court.

Residents and property owners are urged to stay informed about the upcoming developments and consider seeking independent appraisals and legal counsel to navigate this process effectively. The urgency of these projects underscores the need for immediate attention to infrastructure in Fort Bend County, as officials strive to enhance safety and accessibility for all residents.