The Clear Creek Second Outlet Gate Structure in Seabrook, Texas, is a key flood-control asset operated by the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD). After 25 years in a harsh saltwater environment, its six steel gates and lifting systems had deteriorated severely, threatening Clear Lake’s flood protection and water quality control.
Huitt Zollars engineered the first full extraction and off-site rehabilitation approach for this structure. Using a barge-mounted crane, each gate was removed in phases and transported to a controlled fabrication shop—enabling higher quality repairs than field conditions allowed. HCFCD selected full replacement, resulting in six new gates, upgraded wheels, modernized lifting systems, and long life coatings, stainless steel fittings, and sacrificial anodes for enhanced corrosion resistance.
The project sets a new standard for restoring aging coastal flood-control structures. It improved long-term reliability and minimized environmental impacts through efficient barge transport.
