A special thanks to all who have reached out to us about the status of Buffalo Bayou Park.
For the most part, Buffalo Bayou Park endured a significant storm event. As we have stated in the past, park amenities such as benches, trash receptacles and light fixtures were designed to withstand flooding. However, after the storm waters receded, we have identified some areas that have been affected.
As we move into the weekend, we want to alert park users to some areas that are closed. For your safety, please take note of the following areas which are currently closed or cordoned off with orange netting and are impassable.
Johnny Steele Dog Park. The clean-up and silt removal in the small and large dog park areas are ongoing. It is closed now and will be for approximately three weeks.
Main Trail. The main trail is closed at Allen Parkway and Shepherd Drive to address a sink hole that developed alongside the City’s storm sewer project. The City has begun addressing this location, and we are hopeful the trail can reopen soon.
Footpaths. There are key areas along the footpaths that have suffered structural damage – three areas where a section of the path collapsed – but also some erosion and bank failures that affect the use of the path. Our Park team is continuing to assess and determine the various construction remedies for the footpaths. Updates will be provided to park users as they become available.
These footpaths are CLOSED:
- North bank of the bayou east of Waugh Drive.
- North bank of the bayou immediately west of Jackson Hill Bridge.
- South bank of the bayou west of Jackson Hill Bridge and near Lost Lake.

Trees. We are aware of four large trees that are down and near the water’s edge, and we are working with the Harris County Flood Control District for assistance in their removal.
Clean up. The Park Operations Team has been working diligently to pick up trash, clean up bridges (which were under water), clear off footpaths and the concrete trails. The cleanup is ongoing, and we anticipate the majority of this work to be complete soon.
We have a great volunteer program and welcome more help. Please contact Crystal Ortiz, Volunteer Supervisor, at cortiz@buffalobayou.org.
For your safety and to prevent further impact, please avoid the areas of the park noted. Signage will be posted to alert trail users ahead of the closures.
We will provide updates through our website and social media sites, so stay tuned and follow us on Facebook and Twitter. You may also sign up for email updates here.
Please know that we are working diligently to restore these areas to full park use. Thank you for your patience.