Houston Mayor Outlines Plans to Fix Broken Water Lines and Potholes Ahead of FIFA Events

Whitmire addresses city's aging infrastructure issues and prioritizes equity in repairs ahead of international spotlight.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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In his State of the City address, Houston Mayor John Whitmire outlined the city's plans to repair thousands of broken water lines and repave over 1,000 miles of deteriorating roads, with a focus on underserved areas, ahead of the city hosting upcoming FIFA events. Whitmire said Houston is prepared to be in the international spotlight, with the goal of having no broken water pipes by the new year and resurfacing 85 blocks of downtown streets.

Why it matters

Houston's aging infrastructure, including frequent water line breaks and pothole-ridden streets, has long frustrated residents. With the city set to host major FIFA events in the coming years, addressing these issues has become a priority to ensure the city's readiness and present a positive image on the global stage.

The details

Whitmire said the city has made significant progress on water infrastructure, reducing the number of broken water lines from 1,900 to 400, and plans to replace about 3% of its water lines annually, or 200 miles. For roads, the city will be resurfacing 85 blocks of downtown streets and repaving 1,000 miles around the city, going beyond simple pothole repairs to include curb, gutter, and sewer upgrades.

  • Houston is set to host upcoming FIFA events in the coming years.
  • The city aims to have no broken water pipes by the start of the new year.
  • The road repair work is currently underway.

The players

John Whitmire

The mayor of Houston who outlined the city's infrastructure repair plans in his State of the City address.

Houston Public Works

The city department responsible for managing Houston's water and road infrastructure projects.

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What they’re saying

“We are fixing to pave 85 blocks of downtown,”

— John Whitmire, Mayor of Houston (khou.com)

“We have a goal now by first of year to have no broken pipes. It was 1,900. We have 400 today. We are moving in the right direction.”

— John Whitmire, Mayor of Houston (khou.com)

What’s next

Houston Public Works officials said the city plans to replace about 3 percent of its water lines each year, which amounts to roughly 200 miles annually, and continue the road resurfacing work across the city.

The takeaway

Houston's proactive approach to addressing its aging infrastructure, with a focus on equity and preparing for major events, demonstrates the city's commitment to improving the quality of life for its residents and presenting a positive image on the global stage.