Whitaker Field at Waller Creek Stream Bank Stabilization

Doucet provided bank stabilization services for three of the most severely eroded areas along the west bank of Waller Creek within the University of Texas Whitaker Field property boundary as well as preparation of a Master Erosion Plan for the Waller Creek along Whitaker Field. The existing Waller Creek was characterized by bank erosion, channel bottom down cutting, fallen tree trunks and limbs, significant amount of debris, significant amount of trees, and frequent wastewater line crossings.

The University of Texas was losing property and the eroded bank was a potential safety hazard for the athletic field users. To correct this, Doucet used stabilization techniques for the three most severely eroded areas that included placing limestone blocks, selected soil backfill, soil retention blankets and 2’ diameter rock riprap at the problem areas.

The City’s Austin Clean Water Program (ACWP) has a wastewater improvement project along a portion of the study area. Doucet coordinated with the ACWP director and project engineer to insure a seamless transition between the two projects. Towards this goal, Doucet assisted the project engineer in creating a Master Erosion Plan which included reviewing of peak discharges, channel velocities and shear, as well as identifying additional bank stabilization areas and locations of grade control structures. The Master Erosion Plan was presented to the representatives from the UT Athletic Department and was well received.