Public Works Response Team deploys to West, TX

COLLEGE STATION — At the request of the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM), the State Operations Center (SOC) has asked the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) to mobilize a Public Works Assessment Team to deploy to West, TX.

The initial request is to support the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and the District Disaster Chair in Waco in evaluating public water and wastewater system damage. The team will also assist in the determination of additional resources needed for repair and service restoration.

The two-man assessment team deployed Wednesday for a 3- to 5-day assignment. Additional Public Works Response Team members and resources have been put on alert for potential additional response as needed.

Who is the PWRT?
The Public Works Response Team (PWRT) supports local jurisdictions in their response to a catastrophic event by providing critical public works services as needed to facilitate recovery. The PWRT is a state resource with multi-disciplined, multi-talented, and highly qualified members who support local response, rapid damage assessment, and recovery efforts. PWRT is composed of members who are highly skilled and knowledgeable in public works activities such as Utilities (Electrical, Gas, Water, Wastewater, Stormwater, Environmental Safety and Compliance, Communications); Debris Clearance; Structural Safety; Transportation Systems; Traffic Engineering and Management; Fleet Services; and Parks and Recreation.

About TEEX
Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) is an internationally recognized leader in the delivery of emergency response, homeland security and workforce training, exercises, technical assistance, and economic development. The agency operates a comprehensive emergency preparedness and infrastructure training campus, which includes some of the world’s top facilities for hands-on training. Courses are conducted by instructors, many of whom are recognized experts in their respective fields. TEEX offers on-site, customized training and services to businesses and industries, municipalities and public agencies across the globe.

Home to the National Emergency Response and Rescue Training Center, TEEX also sponsors the elite Texas Task Force 1 urban search and rescue team. A state extension training agency, TEEX is a member of The Texas A&M University System.