Haskoning to provide modelling and design for Texas Gulf Coast storm surge barrier

15-04-2026

Haskoning has been confirmed as a key team member for the preliminary design of The Gate (Bolivar Roads Gate System) in Galveston, Texas. The system will be one of the largest storm surge barrier gates in the world, and once complete, is expected to shield over six million people.

Sector gate closed. Artist rendering. Engineering design currently ongoing — ©Gulf Coast Protection District | Artist rendering. Engineering design currently ongoing.

Alongside lead consultant Jacobs, Haskoning will help deliver the Galveston Bay Barrier System, a central element of the Coastal Texas Project. The project has been commissioned by the Gulf Coast Protection District (GCPD) in response to the growing threat from devastating hurricanes, such as 2008’s Hurricane Ike which caused significant loss of life and over US$30 billion in damage in the U.S. Galveston and Houston remain among the U.S. cities facing the highest flood risk today, and in the decades ahead.

Driving engineering innovation

The engineering design will be led by Jacobs, a science-based consulting and advisory leader, with Haskoning as a key collaborator. The system is currently under design but could include a 2.5km dam with vertical lifting gates and two large moveable barriers. Responsible for integrating advanced hydro-dynamic modelling and design studies for the moveable gates, Haskoning will leverage its global experience and Dutch expertise in delivering complex storm surge barriers and coastal defences.

Protecting critical infrastructure, preserving vital industry and safeguarding communities

We are proud to be part of the team selected for this landmark project. Projects of this scale and complexity demand deep technical expertise, global experience and strong collaboration. Working alongside the wider team, we will apply advanced modelling and engineering excellence to help deliver an integrated, resilient solution that protects critical infrastructure, preserves vital industry and safeguards the communities that depend on it.

Jon RobinsonGlobal Director Water & Maritime - Haskoning

Haskoning has contributed to some of the world’s most high-profile storm surge barrier projects, including the Maeslant Barrier in Rotterdam. Through Building Information Modelling (BIM), analysis of computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and parametric design, Haskoning will support the assessment of the project’s economic feasibility and streamline delivery, whilst maintaining high standards of safety and reliability.

Resilience for residents and business

Upon completion, the Bolivar Roads Gate System will significantly reduce hurricane-induced flood risk to Galveston and Houston, protecting over six million residents, safeguarding an estimated US$800 billion in regional assets and supporting operations along the Houston Ship Channel, one of the world’s busiest energy corridors. The design will mitigate the impact of storm surge on Galveston Bay.