Flood risk reduction for Galveston Bay: Preliminary design of a coastal barrier system

Many coastal areas around the world are densely populated and at risk from flooding, but utilize different strategies to deal with coastal hazard. This chapter summarizes how Dutch concepts for coastal flood risk reduction have been explored for Galveston Bay. Firstly, it is shown how risk-based screening methods can help to evaluate various alternative strategies based on metrics such as costs, risk reduction and (societal and environmental) impacts. Application of this approach for Galveston Bay that a coastal spine alternative would entail a large investment, but it would provide the greatest risk reduction by maximizing the protected area. Secondly, a preliminary design for the coastal spine (also known as the Ike Dike) has been elaborated for protection of the region against storm surges, with involvement of Dutch and international students and experts. It includes storm surge barriers at Bolivar Roads and San Luis Pass, and several alternatives for the land barrier—including a fortified dune. Important aspects for future work are discussed, such as the cost estimation, in-bay measures, and the need for integral and proactive planning.