Concerns over the Trinity Estates development continue to ripple through Benbrook, with longtime resident Greg Clem and others questioning both the builder’s practices and the City’s oversight.
Clem, whose property was curiously exempt from the builder’s hydrology study, argues that residents are being misled. While maps suggest that certain lots are being removed from the floodplain, he points out that many of the highlighted homes were never located within the 100-year floodplain to begin with.
He also challenges the City’s reliance on a developer-funded engineering study without commissioning an independent review, likening it to a math teacher grading work without seeing the steps.
The debate deepens as the Fort Worth Floodplain Administrator confirmed that because the project sits entirely in Benbrook, oversight falls to Benbrook officials. While Fort Worth is reviewing certain studies tied to FEMA approvals, the broader hydrology concerns remain under the jurisdiction of Benbrook.
Critics, such as retired engineer Michael Beckner, warn that removing floodplain areas piecemeal through LOMR approvals ignores downstream risks, reduces natural floodwater storage, and eliminates opportunities for green spaces and community trails.
Residents say the impact is already being felt, from dust and runoff to health concerns. The looming question remains: if Timberline is projected to be 3.5 feet underwater during a flood, how will Phase 3 residents safely evacuate?
For Clem and many neighbors, the issue boils down to accountability. They argue the city has ordinances designed to prevent these problems, but has failed to enforce them. With safety and integrity on the line, residents are urging one another to get informed, stay engaged, and most importantly, vote.
For public records and further floodplain study details, residents can submit a request through the City of Fort Worth at fortworthtexas.gov/departments/citysecretary/records.
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