Public Works' Week in Review for April 3, 2025

The Public Works Department is made up of various sub-departments including Fleet, Line Repair, Streets/Stormwater and Traffic, Wastewater, and Water. Each week, over 100 employees are responsible for the maintenance, monitoring, and improvement of existing and new infrastructure across League City which includes everything from roadways and traffic lights to storm drains, sewers, and water production.

Below are some tips and projects they are working on:

Roadside Ditch Reshaping and Grading

League City is home to many miles of open roadside ditches that play a vital role in managing stormwater. Over time, grass clippings, leaves, and other organic debris can accumulate in these ditches. As the debris breaks down, it contributes to soil and silt buildup, which reduces the ditch's ability to carry water according to its original design. To restore proper flow and function, ditches must be reshaped and regraded. Pictured above, the Public Works Stormwater Department is currently performing this important maintenance along Butler Road. The Stormwater Department has a dedicated crew that operates specialized heavy equipment such as the Grad-all Excavator designed specifically for roadside excavation. The crews strive to ensure our stormwater infrastructure remains in excellent condition. Each year, the Stormwater Department aims to reshape and grade over 38,000 linear feet of roadside ditches to maintain optimal performance across the city.

Process Equipment Verification

The Wastewater Department recently performed an equipment validation of air flow meters at the Dallas Salmon Wastewater Treatment Plant. The process requires specialized equipment and techniques to ensure that the unit is up to the instrumentation standards. The successful validation of this instruments ensures the continued efficient operation of the system, maintaining the department's commitment to reliable wastewater treatment.

Repair Air Brakes on Fire Department's Pumper Truck

One of our pumper trucks came to the shop with an air leak. Upon diagnosis, we confirmed an air brake system leak. An air leak is a serious issue that can affect the operation of critical systems, such as the brakes, air suspension, or other pneumatic systems that the vehicle relies on. The mechanics replaced the foot valve and a relay valve to assist the return of a first responder unit.

What is Barklice?

• Tiny, soft-bodied insects that are about 1/8 inch in length
• When disturbed, they move together as a large group
• Form webs over tree trunks and limbs
• Beneficial: Function as "cleaning crew" for trees-work to decompose fungi, debris, dead bark, etc. on tree trunks. They often return to the same trees the following season.

Check out the following website for more information on Barklice: https://txmg.org/galveston/barklice-archipsocus-sp/