A number of Fulshear Run residents and visitors have asked us why the drainage in Fulshear Run performed so well during the heavy rains produced by Hurricane Harvey. The reason is evident to those who drive, cycle, or hike though the community. Phase One of Fulshear Run is built on sharply rolling terrain, with a high elevation mark of 131’ and a low elevation mark of 108’. This means that there is over 20’ of “fall” from the highest point to the lowest point in the community.
Rainfall drains into a meticulously-engineered storm sewer system that captures water runoff and channels it directly to our signature creek – Fulshear Run – and then “downstream” to Bessie’s Creek. Eventually, all of this captured water flows all the way to the Brazos River. More simply stated: Water flows downhill! This type of topographical relief may be common in other parts of the state, but in west Houston and the Katy area it is somewhat rare for master-planned communities to exhibit such changes in elevation.
In addition to the topography of Fulshear Run, there are two more characteristics of the neighborhood that were contributing factors on display during the storm. First, our abundance of natural open space means that there is more pervious land that is able to absorb rainfall. Also, our large lots (half-acre and over one acre in size) makes Fulshear Run a low-density neighborhood. Compared to communities with smaller lots, more rainfall is able to seep into the ground, rather than needing to rely heavily on small, narrow drainage channels and detention ponds.
In Fulshear Run, there is more change in elevation as you traverse the community. And there is less impervious pavement and fewer rooftops compared to higher-density neighborhoods. These are all factors that enhance our drainage system.