Bexar County officials held an emergency press conference on August 5, 2025, to address ongoing flood risks and outline new safety measures aimed at protecting residents. The meeting highlighted the county's commitment to enhancing flood control systems following a series of devastating floods, particularly in the Parambidal Corridor.
County leaders discussed the significant investments made in flood control since the catastrophic floods of 1998, which resulted in extensive property damage and loss of life. Between 2007 and 2017, Bexar County allocated $500 million to flood control programs, which have proven effective in preventing fatalities in areas where these measures were implemented.
Commissioner Moody emphasized the importance of prioritizing human life in flood mitigation efforts. He announced plans for a substantial investment in real-time predictive modeling technology to improve flood response and safety. This initiative aims to provide timely information to residents during severe weather events, potentially saving lives.
The conference also underscored the need for collaboration with the city of San Antonio to develop additional drainage projects. Officials noted that many areas in the county are plagued by inadequate drainage systems, exacerbated by urban development. They called for a community-wide effort to identify and utilize underdeveloped parcels of land for flood mitigation.
In addition to infrastructure improvements, officials urged local businesses to prioritize employee safety during flash floods by allowing workers to stay home during severe weather conditions. This cultural shift is seen as a critical step in reducing risks associated with flooding.
The meeting concluded with a Q&A session featuring subject matter experts who explained the technology behind the county's flood monitoring systems, including the use of strategically placed rain and stream gauges to inform predictive models.
Overall, the press conference marked a proactive approach by Bexar County to address flood risks and enhance community safety through strategic investments and collaborative efforts.