Cameron County drainage district secures $11.3M to help protect 4,000 homes from flooding

Cameron County Drainage District No. 6 has secured an $11.3 million loan from the North American Development Bank to expand stormwater infrastructure designed to help protect nearly 4,000 households from flooding in northwestern Cameron County.  

The funding will pay for larger drainage channels, upgrades to pump stations and drainage outfalls, and other improvements that move stormwater away from neighborhoods more quickly during heavy rain. 

The work also includes land purchases needed for future drainage projects identified in the district’s long-term master plan.  

The project covers about 8.1 square miles served by the drainage district. 

According to NADBank, the area is especially vulnerable to flooding because its flat terrain and poorly draining soils make it difficult for stormwater to drain naturally. With hurricane season underway and recent flooding affecting the region, officials say the improvements will strengthen the county’s ability to handle severe weather.  

“NADBank is pleased to partner with Cameron County Drainage District No. 6 to finance critical stormwater infrastructure that will improve drainage capacity, strengthen system reliability and reduce flood risk for residents,” NADBank Managing Director John Beckham said in a news release. “This project reflects our commitment to invest in long-term infrastructure that supports safer, more resilient communities and enhances quality of life across the region.”  

The loan will also allow the district to move forward with four planned improvements along the International Boundary and Water Commission’s North Floodway levee system, projects intended to strengthen regional flood protection.

“These investments will strengthen regional flood protection infrastructure, enhance public safety, and support the long-term resilience and prosperity of our communities,” Cameron County Drainage District No. 6 Board President Josh Ruiz said in the release. 

The loan was issued through NADBank’s Water Investment Program, which was created to speed financing for priority water infrastructure projects.