The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operates the Brazos River Floodgates (BRFG) near Freeport, Texas, and the Colorado River Locks (CRL) near Matagorda, Texas. These important structures, built in the 1940s, manage flood control, vessel traffic, currents, and sediment in the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway (GIWW).
Over time, the BRFG and CRL have become outdated and no longer meet the needs of modern barge traffic. Narrow gate openings create strong cross currents, making navigation difficult and sometimes dangerous. Barges often have to break apart their tows to pass through, causing delays and increasing the risk of collisions with the structures. Additionally, the support facilities like control houses and warehouses are aging and need replacement.
This project will modernize both the BRFG and CRL by building new support facilities and widening and realigning the navigation channels. These improvements will:
- Make navigation safer and reduce accidents
- Decrease delays for barge traffic
- Control sediment build-up to keep the waterway clear
- Improve overall operations and reliability
By upgrading these critical waterway crossings, the project will support safer and more efficient transportation on the GIWW and help protect the regional economy.
Latest update (08/29/2025):
Brazos River Floodgates (BRFG) design is complete. Construction of BRFG West is pending new start construction funding. The Colorado River Locks design is on hold, pending funding.