Houston construction: Residents say project prevents them from leaving their home on Talton Street in northeast Houston

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) – When it comes to construction here in Houston, we know sometimes it gets worse before it gets better. The people who live on Talton Street, northeast of the city, experience just that.

Some people cannot leave their homes because of an ongoing Houston Public Works project.

Residents who spoke to ABC13 said they were happy Houston Public Works is carrying out this drainage project because it should help with flooding, but the time it takes is becoming an issue.

“Oh yeah, we’re glad they’re trying to make things better, but we shouldn’t have to go that long to make something better,” said Linda Charles, who has lived on Talton Street for 48 years. “We were happy with the July supplement … but now it’s gone August. Now it’s September. In the next few days we’ll be October, so how much longer do we have to wait?”

Houston Public Works said they kicked off the project in April 2021. It was supposed to be completed by the end of the summer, however, in a statement they said:

“Talton Street between Forest View and Monterrey is a local drainage project that involves the installation of a 24 inch underground storm water line with entrances, driveways, curbs and sidewalks. The contractor installed storm water pipe and started the base of the asphalt pavement. Several rains events delayed construction of the street. Houston Public Works contacted the contractor to construct the driveway access. Construction resumed on Tuesday Houston Public Works inspectors will be monitoring the area to keep an eye on progress.

As the crews build the base of the road, many of those who live on this street cannot leave their homes. Gloria Arocha said that due to her condition, it made her nervous.

“I’ve had a heart attack and I have doctor’s appointments that I have to attend, and we can’t go out. I’m scared. I’m scared to be in this situation,” explained Arocha.

Typically, one side of the street would be torn at a time to cause less disturbance, according to Public Works. But in this situation, the road was in such bad condition, they said it was necessary to demolish everything at once.

Neighbors said they were waiting for the day when the mess was finally cleaned up.

“Once that’s over it’s like playing the lottery. That’s how happy I’ll be,” Charles said.

According to Houston Public Works, weather permitting, the project should be completely finished by mid-October.