The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has awarded a civil works contract to US-based construction company Granite to reduce flood risk and damage in Wharton, Texas.

The estimated value of this contract is approximately $48m, with the project to be funded from the USACE’s civil construction funds for 2023.

Granite will register this project in the year's second quarter for committed and awarded projects.

Wharton faces significant flooding difficulties caused by the nearby Colorado River, Caney Creek, Baughman Slough, and Peach Creek.

The scope of the works comprises the construction of four levee reaches, five interior gravity sump sections, storm sewer relief systems, Colorado River slope restoration efforts, and several pavement enhancements.

Granite regional operations vice-president Matt Shepherd said: “These essential measures are designed to fortify the city’s defences and minimise the impact of future flood events.

“Granite is pleased to have the opportunity to showcase our ability to perform USACE civil works in this market.”

The earthen levees, an important part of the flood prevention design, will roughly measure 11,800 linear feet.

These sturdy structures have a top width of 16ft, an average height of 8ft, and a base width of 80ft, and are expected to serve as solid barriers against rising sea levels.

Along with the levee system, the project will include five inner gravity sumps with cast-in-place structures outfitted with sluice or flap gates.

The storm sewer relief systems will help improve the city’s drainage infrastructure, increase its capacity to manage heavy rainfall and prevent water build-up in low-lying regions.

Meanwhile, slope restoration operations along the Colorado River are expected to improve riverbank stability, minimising erosion and the possibility of future flooding disasters.

The project is set to commence in September this year and is expected to be finished in December 2024.