Plano BNSF Drainage Improvements

The BNSF railroad tracks in Plano were experiencing inundation during relatively common rain events. The flooding was consistently reaching the tracks and even spilling over them occasionally. The primary culverts carrying the drainage under the railroad were also experiencing significant erosion on the downstream (west) side that was threatening the railroad tracks. Walter P Moore provided civil engineering services to alleviate the flooding and erosion. Hydraulic modeling was performed for the ditch along the east side of the railroad and three culverts that conveyed water under the railroad. Modeling also determined the required ditch grading to prevent flooding up to the 100-year event. A 42” pipe crossing under the railroad was extended to an open channel to allow improved flow through the pipe. Increasing the conveyance eliminated the need for additional piping under the railroad. On the west side of the railroad which was experiencing erosion, Walter P Moore designed a gabion retaining wall to stabilize the channel and to provide armoring where energy dissipation could occur.