12/20/2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 20, 2025
Matagorda County, Texas
Matagorda County Announces Major Federal Contract Award for Navigation and Coastal Protection Project Matagorda County, in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
(USACE) Galveston District, the Texas General Land Office (GLO), and the Port of Bay City, today announced the award of a major federal contract for the Mouth of the Colorado River Navigation Channel Maintenance and Sargent Beach Beneficial Use Placement Project.
The $86,347,000 contract has been awarded to Houston-based Orion Government Services, LLC, and includes maintenance dredging of the Colorado River navigation channel, construction of shoreline protection features, and the beneficial use placement of dredged material along Sargent Beach. The project is designed to improve navigation safety, enhance coastal resilience, and provide critical shoreline protection for Matagorda County.
“This is a significant investment in the future of Matagorda County,” said County Judge Bobby Seiferman. “This project strengthens our coastal infrastructure, protects our communities from erosion, and supports the economic vitality of our working waterfronts. We are grateful for the strong collaboration with our federal and state partners that made this project possible.”
The project will utilize dredged material from the navigation channel to reinforce vulnerable shoreline areas near Sargent, helping to mitigate erosion and storm impacts while maximizing environmental and public benefits.
Precinct 2 County Commissioner Mike Eslinbaum emphasized the local impact of the project. “Sargent Beach has faced serious erosion challenges for years,” Eslinbaum said. “This project delivers real, long-term protection for residents, businesses, and public infrastructure. It’s a win for coastal resilience, navigation, and responsible resource management.”
The Colorado River navigation channel is a critical economic artery for the region, supporting commercial and industrial activity throughout Matagorda County and the surrounding area. Maintenance dredging ensures continued safe and efficient access for maritime traffic while supporting regional commerce.
Matagorda County officials thanked the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Galveston District, the Texas General Land Office, and the Port of Bay City for their continued partnership and commitment to coastal protection and navigation improvement projects along the Texas Gulf Coast.
Construction activities are expected to begin in accordance with federal permitting and environmental compliance requirements.
Matagorda County is a coastal county in the U.S. state of Texas, founded in the 1830s and named for the Spanish word matagorda, meaning “thick brush,” referring to the dense canebrakes that once grew along its shores. Its county seat and largest city is Bay City.
Economically, the county blends agriculture – especially crops like rice, cotton, sorghum, and turfgrass – with energy and industrial sectors, including petrochemical facilities and the South Texas Project nuclear power plant.
