Musk-backed $760 million Houston flood tunnels draw political support, engineering doubts
(UI) — Elon Musk’s Boring Co. has been lobbying to take on part of Houston’s long-discussed flood tunnel system, a multibillion-dollar plan designed to protect the region from future disasters like Hurricane Harvey, according to KUT News.
Working closely with U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt, Musk’s team pitched two 12-foot tunnels as a cheaper alternative to Harris County’s original concept of massive 30- to 40-foot-wide pipelines that could divert stormwater out to the Gulf. Hunt’s office has said the proposal would cost about $760 million, with The Boring Co. receiving 15% up front from local and state sources.
County commissioners recently voted to study a pilot program that mirrors aspects of Boring’s plan, though no contracts have been awarded. As reported by KUT News, engineers warn smaller tunnels might not move enough water to make a meaningful dent in Houston’s chronic flooding, raising questions about whether cost savings outweigh effectiveness.
Emails and memos obtained through public records show Hunt’s staff repeatedly pressed state leaders for funding. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s office also held discussions, with Patrick later telling reporters he was open to hearing proposals from Musk or any company that could deliver flood relief quickly.
Critics note that The Boring Co. has built transit tunnels in places like Las Vegas but has little experience with large-scale flood projects. One engineer told reporters that it would take more than 10 small tunnels to equal the flow of a single 40-foot pipe.
Despite skepticism, the push has elevated Musk’s profile in Houston’s flood control debate and could benefit Hunt politically as he weighs a run for the U.S. Senate.
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