Elon Musk’s Boring Co. and Houston-area Congressman Wesley Hunt are pushing a $760 million flood tunnel plan as a cheaper alternative to Harris County’s $30 billion project, sparking debate over effectiveness and transparency.
Eight years following the destruction caused by Hurricane Harvey in Houston, a renewed initiative is being launched to construct underground tunnels aimed at alleviating the city's flooding challenges—now supported by billionaire Elon Musk and a Texas congressman.
A report from The Texas Newsroom and the Houston Chronicle reveals that Rep. Wesley Hunt, R-Houston, has been discreetly advocating to state and local officials for the consideration of Musk’s Boring Co. in a $760 million project. The proposal includes the construction of two 12-foot tunnels designed to redirect water away from a significant watershed, presenting a more streamlined and economical alternative to Harris County's extensively evaluated $30 billion tunnel system.
Hunt’s office has indicated that the proposal would necessitate an upfront contribution of 15% of the project’s cost from public funds. Just a few months after the proposal, Harris County Commissioners decided to explore a pilot program featuring smaller tunnels that align with Boring’s specifications.
The initial proposal from the county, unveiled in 2022 following extensive federally funded studies, outlined a vision for eight enormous tunnels extending 130 miles, each designed to accommodate a container ship. The financial commitment stands at $30 billion, with a projected timeline extending up to 15 years. The estimate for a significant portion, which would traverse beneath Buffalo Bayou, was $4.6 billion.
Hunt and Musk, on the other hand, market their offering as faster and more cost-effective. However, certain specialists caution that it might not provide significant assistance. “Constructing a smaller tunnel may reduce costs, but it will have a lower capacity for water,” stated Larry Dunbar, a water engineer from the Houston area. “What have you managed to save?” There could be approximately an inch of flooding in the upstream areas.
Musk and Hunt are poised to benefit from the initiative. Hunt, speculated to be considering a 2026 Senate run against John Cornyn, may highlight a significant infrastructure achievement. Musk’s Boring Co. is poised to secure its inaugural large-scale public works contract in Texas, following scrutiny over the pace and scope of its previous projects.
The conversations have primarily taken place out of public view. Hunt touched on the concept briefly during a town hall in February but has since refrained from addressing inquiries. There was no response from either Musk or representatives of Boring to inquiries from the media.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who engaged with Hunt’s team during the previous legislative session, expressed his willingness to consider the proposal. “If Elon Musk and the Boring Company, or any other company, can construct two enormous tunnels beneath the Houston bayous in just a few years to protect the city from flooding, I am definitely keen to hear more,” Patrick stated.
County officials emphasize that, despite the interest, no funds have been set aside, and any agreement would adhere to competitive procurement regulations.
