In 2021, the FAA notified Sugar Land Regional Airport of 150 obstruction points considered hazards to the Runway 17 approach that must be removed, or the approach would be severely impacted. A survey of tenants and frequent users determined this would significantly impact jet traffic, the majority of Airport operations. 

The Airport's independent survey data determined that 6.7 acres south of the park entrance would need to be cleared, and approximately 35 trees north of the park road would need to be removed.

Per the Interlocal Agreement with the City of Houston, Sugar Land is responsible for maintaining the property in a safe condition and in accordance with state and federal regulations. Additionally, a Special Warranty Deed from Texas Commerce Bank National Association to the Houston Parks Board stated that the property was subject to the Hull Airport Hazard Zoning Ordinance adopted July 9, 1984, by the Commissioner's Court of Fort Bend County. 

Airport Management met with the Cullinan Park Conservancy President and Executive Director in August, and subsequently with the Cullinan Park Board in September, to discuss tree obstructions in the Park. To minimize the impacts on Cullinan Park, the Airport is committed to a visual barrier between the Park and the Airport. The specifics remain a discussion item between the City's Parks Department, Airport staff, and Cullinan Park Board.

In September and October of this year, the Airport notified the City of Houston Parks Department and the Houston Urban Forestry Division of the intended mitigation effort as required by the Interlocal Agreement.

The obstruction mitigation project was divided into two separate efforts due to the scope of work difference. The removal of the 35 trees located to the north of the Cullinan Park road will be completed without impacting the Parks Department's Phase II project to add sidewalks and new trails adjacent to the mitigation area. This work will be "surgical" to minimize that impact, and heavy equipment is prohibited. Invitation to Bid #2023-03 Runway 17 Approach End Obstruction (North) was posted to Public Purchase on October 19, 2022.

Removal of obstructions within the surveyed 6.7 acres south of the Cullinan Park road is a simple clearing and grading project. Access to the site will be via the Airport's northern game fence, and heavy equipment is permitted. Invitation to Bid #2023-04 Runway 17 Approach End Obstruction (South) was posted to Public Purchase on October 26, 2022. Bid opening for both projects was held on November 17, 2022, at City Hall. There were three respondents for ITB #2023-03 and four for ITB #2023-04, with one disqualified for lack of bid bond. The tables below provide respondents, bid amounts, and recommended vendor*.

ITB #2023-03 Runway 17 Approach End Obstruction (North)

ITB #2023-04 Runway 17 Approach End Obstruction (South)

Texas Ranch Maintenance, LLC provided the lowest bid for both efforts, with a combined total of $85,440.00. Legal reviewed the ITBs and bid responses and determined that a single contract with Texas Ranch Maintenance LLC is appropriate.

The Aviation Department recommends that the City Council approve a contract with Texas Ranch Maintenance LLC, in the amount of $85,440.00, to remove obstructions to Sugar Land Regional Airport Runway 17 approach.