Scheduled Maintenance of Lower Neches Valley Authority Saltwater Barrier

 Beaumont, Texas – August 18, 2025 – The Lower Neches Valley Authority (LNVA) announces the scheduled maintenance of the Neches River Saltwater Barrier navigation gates. This essential maintenance will halt boat traffic through the saltwater barrier structure for the remainder of the year.

Project Overview: After 23 years of continuous service, the saltwater barrier requires maintenance to ensure the ongoing protection of the freshwater supply for much of Southeast Texas. The project will focus on the navigational passage that allows boats to traverse the structure while in salinity control operations. This maintenance is part of LNVA's commitment to providing safe navigational passage for boaters and recreational traffic while safeguarding the region's freshwater resources.

Key Details:

Boat Launch Access: Boaters can still launch their boats at the saltwater barrier using the north boat ramp for upstream travel and the south boat ramp for downstream travel.

Freshwater Supply Impact: The saltwater barrier will continue to function as intended throughout the maintenance period, ensuring no disruption to the freshwater supply.

Project Timeline: While a timeline is established, completion dates are contingent upon many external factors and cannot be guaranteed.  Projected completion is projected for January 2026 at this time.

Safety Notice: Boat passage through the water control (tainter) gates is prohibited. Texas Parks and Wildlife Game Wardens will enforce safety regulations around the structure.