Speakers
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Sarah DeBerry PEEngineer | Hanson Professional ServicesA Rio Grande Valley native, Sarah joined Hanson in 2019 and leads local roadway projects and teams to deliver projects to clients in Texas and out of state. She has experience managing project aspects including planning, right of way, Schematic, PS&E, and construction for various agencies. She is also an active member of ASCE Rio Grande Valley Chapter and the Texas section.
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Yolanda De La Torre PE, CFM, MSEPMO Director | City of BrownsvilleYolanda has been with the City of Brownsville for almost 6 years and in that time has worked in the engineering offices, succeeding as Assistant City Engineer before becoming the Director of Enterprise Project Management Office (EPMO) where she manages capital improvement projects and a team of engineers and business analysts. During this time, Yolanda has is active with the ASCE Rio Grande Valley Chapter and has served as chapter president in previous years.
Local Time
- Timezone: America/New_York
- Date: Sep 17 2026
- Time: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Gladys Porter Zoo Water & Wastewater Improvements Project: Design, Construction, and Infrastructure Renewal within an Active Zoological Facility
This presentation provides an overview of the design and construction of the Gladys Porter Zoo Water and Wastewater Improvement Project in Brownsville, Texas. The aging condition of the existing utility infrastructure, coupled with projected growth identified in the Zoo Master Plan, highlighted the need for comprehensive water and wastewater system upgrades to support future expansion and maintain reliable service.
The project included the rehabilitation and replacement of gravity sanitary sewer lines, manholes, lift stations, and water distribution infrastructure throughout the zoo. Improvements were designed to address deteriorating infrastructure, enhance system reliability, and increase capacity to accommodate future development. Given the unique operating environment of an active zoological facility, careful coordination was required throughout the design and construction phases to minimize disruptions to zoo operations, animal habitats, and visitor experiences.
Design efforts were completed in 2024, and construction was completed in 2026. This presentation will discuss key design considerations, construction challenges, stakeholder coordination, and lessons learned throughout the life of the project. The completed improvements have enhanced the resiliency and functionality of the zoo’s utility infrastructure
