The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) embarked on arguably one of the most aggressive schedules ever undertaken by a State Department of Transportation when they teamed with Zachry-Odebrecht Parkway Builders (ZOPB) and established the goal of designing, acquiring the right-of-way, and constructing approximately 38 miles of highway on new alignment through Harris and Montgomery Counties within 27 months. This portion of the Houston Grand Parkway (SH 99 segments F-1, F-2 and G, illustrated below) started at US 290 and ended at US 59/I-69. The portion represented the Northwest section of the 180-mile eventual loop around the greater Houston area. The project consisted of more than 120 bridges, intermittent frontage roads, and comprehensive utility infrastructure. Extensive environmental studies were conducted to ensure appropriate planning for retention ponds, as well as for preserving wildlife and vegetation habitats. Notice to proceed for the $1.1 Billion Project was issued by TxDOT on March 22, 2013 with an expected completion date of July 15, 2015.

Zachry-Odebrecht Parkway Builders (ZOPB) was selected by TxDOT as the Prime Consultant to lead a team of Designers and Right-of-Way Specialists to provide this project’s construction. Although TxDOT embarked on some early acquisition, right-of-way consistently remained the “critical path” and required the innovative thinking of a large team of Right-of-Way specialists to acquire property on a fast-track schedule. As a sub-consultant to ZOPB, ORC played an integral role in the delivery of over 250 parcels of land and the relocation of more than 220 residents and businesses along the Grand Parkway corridor. Our team of specialists provided title research, appraisals, appraisal reviews, and acquisition and relocation services, without using special incentives or additional compensation for landowners.