Written by Cynthia Calvert Published: 07 August 2019
Metro is proposing relocating the Kingwood Park and Ride as part of the transportation agency’s long range mobility plan.
The idea is part of a large package of projects Metro wants to put on the November ballot.
Metro CEO Tom Lambert has stated that relocating the Kingwood site is an obvious choice because it was affected by flooding when Hurricane Harvey poured into Kingwood. The existing site along Kingwood Drive also is time-consuming for buses to navigate, compared to a location closer to the freeway, he said.
The idea does not sit well with Houston City Councilmember Dave Martin.
“I had a face-to-face meeting with Tom Jasien, deputy CEO of Metro, and told him we are totally not in favor of moving it.
“Jasien knows my feelings. I take the park and ride frequently myself,” Martin said. “It makes no sense to move it to the front when so many use it where it is.”
Martin also disputes Lambert’s reasoning, saying that during the Harvey flooding, drivers could not have made it to any site in the front of Kingwood. He also said the site has only flooded once in more than 25 years.
“It makes no sense to move it. People in the back of Kingwood use it and those from about Woodland Hills west drive to the Townsen site. It would not increase ridership at all, and in my opinion, would decrease ridership,” Martin said.
Metro media specialist Laura Whitley did not address the once-in-a quarter-century flood during Harvey but said,”The issue of flooding is only one factor. Our job is to prioritize the safe movement of people. If our Park and Ride and/or the roads leading to it are prone to flooding, it makes sense to relocate to areas less prone to high water,” she said.
Whitley confirmed that the relocation is being considered.
“The proposal is one of several “potential projects.” The proposal is to relocate the Kingwood Park and Ride from its current location to a more accessible location near Highway 59. This project is part of the proposed investments in the MetroNext Moving Forward plan which calls for approximately 11 new or improved park and rides. Public input will be key before moving forward with any of these projects,” Whitley said.
Metro’s board must vote later this month and call for an election in order to be on the November ballot. The overall plan calls for Metro to borrow $3.5 billion.
If the park and ride were relocated to the front of Kingwood, it would be very close to the Townsen Park and Ride in Humble, approximately a mile or so, depending on the final location. Whitley said increased ridership justifies the two facilities being so close.
“Demand for commuter service has grown as the region continues to grow. Katy’s Grand Parkway and Kingsland Park and Rides, for example, are located less than four miles from one another. Both facilities are two of our busiest. Kingwood and the surrounding area are growing and more proposed developments are on the way. Growing congestion along Kingwood Drive is impacting commuter service. Our job is to prioritize the movement of people. We can do that by moving the facility closer to the freeway and freeing commuter buses from growing traffic on roads,” she said.
Whitley did say that ridership at both park and ride locations is comparable. “In April, we saw 1,011 average weekday passenger rides on the Townsen 257 and 850 average weekday passenger rides on the Kingwood 255,” she said.
Martin said Metro wants their mobility plan to pass, and wants Kingwood’s support.
“They asked what we want, and I get it. They want their plan to pass and know Kingwood has a strong voting bloc. But I told them this idea is not good, would only add those 1,000 cars to Kingwood Drive during morning and evening commutes and is not needed,” he said.
Whitley said the park and ride relocation idea has been discussed at several community meetings. Metro has attended various committee meetings, such as the Super Neighborhood Council and local chamber meetings to discuss their plan. She did say Metro is continuing to ask for opinions.
“For now, the plan is only that: a plan. With any plan it’s necessary to have a blueprint in place. Whether a new Kingwood Park and Ride is built depends on a number of factors including funding and additional input from residents. We’ll continue to solicit additional feedback from the community if this proposal is something that ends up in the final plan. Community engagement will be ongoing,” she said.
Kingwood residents who wish to express their opinion can call Metro at 713-635-4000 Monday-Friday from 6 a.m. – 8 p.m.
UPDATE ON HOW TO CONTACT METRO FROM CYNTHIA CALVERT:
I heard again from Laura Whitley with Metro. She gave me a better way to voice opinions. Here is her reply: We very much want to hear from residents and record their comments on the METRONext proposals. That is the process we have been following since we began this process more than two years ago because it is very important for us to get everyone’s feedback and keep record of it. If your readers would like to share their feedback, we ask they do so through the METRONext.org website. The direct link to submit a comment is here https://www.ridemetro.org/Pages/METRONext.aspx Our customer service line (above listed number) is primarily focused on day-to-day operations.
As we begin to gear up for the upcoming school year, my staff has been hard at work coordinating the annual round of fall town hall meetings in the district. I invite you to save the date for the following two meetings that will be held:
Clear Lake/SoutheastHouston Thursday, October 10 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Space Center Houston – Special Events Building 1601 East NASA Parkway Houston, Texas 77058
Kingwood/Lake Houston Thursday, October 17 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Kingwood Community Center – Main Room 4102 Rustic Woods Drive Kingwood, Texas 77345
As always, I have extended the invitation to several city departments including Houston Public Works as well as Houston Parks and Recreation and a variety of community speakers. In addition to various information tables for residents to peruse before the meetings begin. In Clear Lake/ Southeast Houston, we have invited the folks from Commissioner Adrian Garcia’s Office to provide an update on the El Dorado Boulevard widening project. Exploration Green has also been invited to participate in our town hall to discuss their progress towards completion. Houston Public Works and the Houston Parks and Recreation Department will be in attendance to discuss the complete pavement replacement at the Ellington Airport/Clear Lake Neighborhood Recycling Center as well as the Sylvan Rodriguez Park Habitat Restoration Project.
In Kingwood/Lake Houston, the focus of the meeting will be on flood remediation projects, update on dredging activities, the creation of a Lake Houston Maintenance Program, and announcement of the FEMA Award for floodgates on the Lake Houston Spillway Dam.
We look forward to hearing these updates and learning of the community’s questions, comments and concerns. If you have never been before, it is the perfect opportunity to be engaged in your community and have your questions answered. We hope you will join us. Please feel free to invite a neighbor, friend or colleague! Everyone is more than welcome to attend.
This year is also an election year, and I encourage everyone to register to vote. If you are not already, you can register online by visiting VoteTexas.gov or by visiting the Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector’s office, which has many branches across the city. I am proud to announce that I formally submitted my paperwork to run for my last term for the District E City Council position. Thank you to all who have supported me thus far and for the privilege to serve. I feel honored and blessed to have had the opportunity and hope to be able to continue to represent the constituents of District E.
Sincerely, Dave Martin The District E Office 900 Bagby, First Floor Houston, TX 77002 Contact Information Email: districte@houstontx.gov Phone: (832) 393-3008 Fax: (832) 393-3279
FEMA Awards funding for Lake Houston Spillway Flood Gates
Houston City Council Member Dave Martin is excited to announce the District E office has received notification from the Honorable Congressman Dan Crenshaw (TX-02) regarding the award of The United States Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Federal grants for the State of Texas Associated with Hurricane Harvey. Council Member Martin is most thrilled about the award of a Hazard Mitigation Grant through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) in the amount of $47,170,953 for the City of Houston Lake Houston Dam Spillway Improvement Project (Federal Share $35,378,214.75, Non-Federal Share $11,792,738.25). This award is pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, Section 404, and 44 CFR Part 206.434.
Congressman Crenshaw announced to Council Member Martin: “Today FEMA approved nearly $3.3 million for Phase 1 of the gates at the Lake Houston Dam. These gates will increase the flow out of Lake Houston significantly. This money will ensure that the final design will not impact downstream residents and will provide the anticipated relief to the Lake Houston area. Increasing the conveyance will have positive impacts for the entire San Jacinto watershed including the East Fork and the West Fork.”
It has been nearly two years since Hurricane Harvey devastated numerous cities along the Texas Coastline including the Kingwood and Lake Houston communities. Since August 27, 2017 Council Member Martin has stayed committed to finding solutions and identifying projects for the Lake Houston Area in order to reduce the risk of flooding and improving safety for residents. This is evident in the completion of the dredging along the West Fork of the San Jacinto River, where nearly 2 million cubic yards of debris were removed earlier this year to re-establish flow and reduce blockages in the river caused by Hurricane Harvey.
Additionally, Council Member Martin fought for the complete removal of the mouth-bar which is located at the confluence of the San Jacinto River and Lake Houston south of Deerwood Country Club. The mouth-bar is currently in the process of being dredged and to date 250,000 cubic yards of sediment has been removed from this area. The current mouth-bar dredging project will remove nearly 500,000 cubic yards of debris associated with Hurricane Harvey. Council Member Martin along with help from Congressman Crenshaw continues to fight for the removal of even more material from the mouth-bar.
These dredging efforts were just one part of Council Member Martin’s bigger picture for the Lake Houston Area to combat flooding, along with the installation of flood gates on the Lake Houston Spillway Dam. Council Member Martin has been working diligently over the last two years, with Congressman Crenshaw, Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd, State Senator Brandon Creighton, State Representative Dan Huberty, City of Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, and City of Houston Chief Resiliency Officer Stephen Costello, to obtain flood control infrastructure for the City of Houston on the Lake Houston Spillway Dam.
After hearing the news regarding the FEMA Award Council Member Martin had these words to say:“The Lake Houston Dam gates were always my number one priority as these additional gates give us the ability to proactively release water from Lake Houston in an expeditious fashion if needed during an emergency. Words cannot do justice to say how pleased I am knowing our gates will be built. It’s been 22 months of hard work and persistence. I am forever grateful to Congressman Dan Crenshaw, Governor Greg Abbott, Chief Nim Kidd, Senator Creighton, Representative Huberty, Mayor Sylvester Turner, Stephen Costello, former Chief Recovery Officer Marvin Odum, and Congressman Dan Crenshaw’s Field Representative Kaaren Cambio. Without these great leaders this project would’ve never come to fruition. We are truly blessed.”
Funding for the City of Houston Lake Houston Dam Spillway Improvement Project is awarded directly to the State of Texas in full. Phase I funding will be released to the City of Houston from the State of Texas. Once those funds are released to the City of Houston the City will begin the process of permitting, engineering, design, and environmental assessment to increase the outflow capacity of the Lake Houston Spillway Dam. Once Phase I of the project is complete the City of Houston will renew the cost benefit analysis and submit to FEMA for their review. Upon their review of the completed cost benefit analysis after Phase I completion, the additional funds provided to the state of Texas for this project will be released to the City for completion of Phase II construction. Once the funding is received by the City of Houston the two phases are expected to be completed within thirty-six months, with the possibility of extension if needed. This is exciting news for the City of Houston, residents of Lake Houston and Kingwood.
Along with the award of the City of Houston Lake Houston Dam Spillway Improvement Project Hazard Mitigation Grant FEMA has also announced three other grants impacting District E. Lonestar College’s Kingwood Campus has been awarded two public assistance grants for Emergency Protective Measures in the amounts of $6,276,131.22 and $2,502,914.79. Clear Creek Independent School District was also awarded a public assistance grant for Emergency Protective Measures in the amount of $1,303,060.49. The funding for these three grants is authorized under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.
“Beat the Heat” Cooling Centers
The summer months can put a strain on anyone’s electricity budget. Several “Beat the Heat” cooling centers have been opened up throughout the City and County, offering Houstonians a place to keep cool and minimize home electricity usage while enjoying free water and snacks. These centers are open weekdays through September. In District E, residents can visit:
Complete Pavement Replacement Scheduled for Ellington Airport/Clear Lake Neighborhood Recycling Center
Houston Public Works has started a complete pavement replacement at Ellington Airport/Clear Lake Neighborhood Recycling Center. Over the last couple of years, Council Member Martin has provided patching of potholes within the recycling center. Understanding these asphalt patches are often short term solutions, Council Member Martin continued to push for a more substantial long-term project, which has been secured. The scope of work includes replacing all existing asphalt with concrete to improve driving conditions and to preserve and prolong the life of the road base. The work is expected to be completed by October 2019, weather permitting. To maintain access to the recycling containers, crews have sectioned the work so they begin working outside the fence allowing accessibility to the containers. There will be a barricade and traffic cones outlining the safe pathway to the containers. Once the first phase is complete, residents will be able to drive on the newly poured concrete to access the recycling containers while crews begin work on the opposite side. Crews will be on site from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., daily. After the work outside of the fencing has been completed, crews will begin replacing the pavement inside the fence where the containers are located. At that time, it will be determined by the City of Houston Solid Waste Department if the site will need to be closed for the remainder of the project. Once this decision is made, Council Member Martin will make sure to communicate this change to residents as he understand the importance of having access to this facility. Council Member Martin hopes to limit the number of accessibility issues to the facility during this pavement replacement, but encourages patience from residents as this project is underway. Council Member Martin will provide updates on access to the recycling center on his Facebook page and Twitter.
El Dorado Boulevard Widening Project Begins
Harris County Precinct 2 has recently started the El Dorado Boulevard widening project by removing trees near the existing sidewalk along the western side of El Dorado Boulevard, between Clear Lake City Boulevard and Horsepen Bayou. The removal is expected to be completed by the end of August, weather permitting.
As there are over 1000 trees planted along this easement of El Dorado Boulevard, less than 10% will be removed. The tree removal process is necessary in order for CenterPoint to begin relocating their power lines. Crews will be on site, removing trees, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Following the tree removal and the relocation of the CenterPoint power lines, Harris County Precinct 2 will begin widening the roadway.
All trees being removed will be replanted within the project boundaries, if not more. The 100 to 150 newly replanted trees will support the new landscape as well as decrease the need for maintenance on the newly installed hike and bike path. This new hike and bike path will not only improve connectivity in the area, but increase Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility.
Construction on the roadway is expected to begin early this fall and take 18 months to complete, weather permitting. This work should not require any lane closures on El Dorado Boulevard. As a result of these activities, please be aware of pedestrian traffic control efforts to ensure pedestrian safety. The District E office will continue to provide updates throughout the duration of the project.
Mouth-Bar Dredging Update
Dredging of the mouth-bar, a sand bar located where the San Jacinto River meets Lake Houston south of Deerwood Country Club, began on Tuesday, June 25. Great Lakes Dredging has removed roughly 220,000 cubic yards of sediment from the nearly 500,000 cubic yard project. The removal of this sediment is happening with much more ease due to the lack of debris in the material that is being picked up. Great Lakes Dredging is still encountering large trees throughout the project but not with as much frequency as they had when dredging the west fork of the river. The project is expected to be completed early this fall.
Council Member Martin understands that without repetitive dredging throughout the Lake Houston region, our community will continue to see sand bars develop throughout the river and lake. As a result, the Council Member continues to work with local, state, and federal officials to develop a long range maintenance plan for the East and West Forks of the San Jacinto River as well as Lake Houston for the removal of floatable debris and sediment.
During this year’s City of Houston Budget vote Council Member Martin submitted an amendment that was supported by his City Council Colleagues and Mayor Sylvester Turner that establishes for the first time ever a Lake Houston Maintenance Program. Council Member Martin submitted this amendment for the first time last year but it failed.
After the passage of this amendment this June, Council Member Martin is already hard at work identifying stakeholders, outlining program criteria, and creating implementation strategies. The main goals for the Lake Houston Maintenance Program are to establish regular lake maintenance for the removal of floatable debris as well as implement a sediment management component for the river and lake.
District E Safe Sidewalk Projects
This month, Houston Public Works will be constructing safe sidewalks in District E. These sidewalk projects have been requested by Council Member Martin in an effort to provide increased pedestrian mobility as well as safety.
On Wednesday, August 7, Houston Public Works will begin installing concrete sidewalks and wheelchair ramps on the east side of South Shaver, from 4415 South Shaver Street to the driveway at Yes Prep Southeast Public School, 353 Crenshaw Road, Houston, Texas 77034. Construction is expected to be completed Wednesday, August 28, weather permitting. More information on this project can be found here.
The installation of this sidewalk became a priority for Council Member Martin after an administrator at Yes Prep Public Schools contacted the District E office regarding the lack of sidewalk for students traveling to and from Yes Prep Southeast Public School. To address the safety hazards the lack of sidewalk posed, Council Member Martin was happy to allocate $80,904.00 from Council District Service Funds for the installation of the sidewalk.
On Thursday, August 8, Houston Public Works will begin installing missing pieces of concrete sidewalk panels at 5458 Allendale Road. Construction is expected to be completed by Thursday, August 15. Crews will operate between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. A lane closure is expected. The scope of the project is about 30 feet long, and the goal is to complete the sidewalk to create a safe sidewalk for students and residents traveling to and from Patterson Elementary School and Meadowcreek Village Park.
In Kingwood, on August 8, Houston Public Works will begin installing missing concrete panels along High Valley Drive from Kingwood Drive to Stately Oak Street. Construction is anticipated to be completed by Friday, September 6. The scope of the project is about 870 feet long, and will close the gap between High Valley Drive and Kingwood Drive near Houston Fire Department Station 103.
As a result of the construction activities throughout District E, please be aware of flaggers and caution devices, like orange traffic control barriers, that will be put in place on site to help with traffic flow through the construction zone. Council Member Martin looks forward to the completion of these projects and improved connectivity within District E.
Miles Street Road Pavement Replacement Project
The Miles Street Road Pavement Replacement Project will begin the week of Monday, August 5. In late July, the project was delayed due to complications with the traffic plan. Those issues have since been resolved. The project will replace the existing asphalt with concrete to improve safety and mobility on Miles Street from Market Street to Industrial Road. The scope of work includes replacement of the roadway pavement, manhole adjusting, and re-grading the roadside ditches to facilitate drainage. The project is expected to be completed by end of January 2020, weather permitting. For more information on the project click here. This project is being funded through the City of Houston’s Dedicated Drainage and Street Renewal Fund in the amount of the $2,568,358.83. For those who were unable to attend the July 9 Public Meeting regarding this project, the presentation, Frequently Asked Questions document (in English and Spanish) and project map are available here. Questions or comments related to this project may be sent directly to Houston Public Works by emailing buildforward@houstontx.gov.
Taylor Gully Update
Last month, Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) began a desilt project on the upstream portion of Taylor Gully from Bassingham to the Harris County line. The work is expected to be completed by September 2019, weather permitting. This maintenance project became a priority for Council Member Martin after the May 2019 rain events that flooded over 300 homes in the Kingwood community. During these rain events, intense rainfall rates greatly exceeded internal and primary drainage system capabilities resulting in significant and at times deep street flooding and sheetflow. On May 8, City of Houston contractors, as well as Harris County Flood Control District, investigated their designated drainage systems and determined the flooding was potentially caused by development upstream in Montgomery County that sent large volumes of sheetflow into the Elm Grove subdivision and Taylor Gully (G103-80-03-1). You can read more about the project plans by reading our press release at this link. After completing this reach of channel, HCFCD staff will investigate Taylor Gully further downstream, where HCFCD completed a desilt job in the spring of 2019. HCFCD will open up any constrictions and desilt the channel if necessary.
Harris County Flood Control District Berry Bayou Update
Stormwater channel improvements along Berry Bayou Tributary C106-03-00 from the South Houston city limits near Genoa Street to about Shawnee Street are nearing completion. This is a portion of Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) Project C106-03-00-C006, the third phase of channel improvements along this Berry Bayou tributary in the Sims Bayou watershed. The $5.87 million Phase 3 project, under construction since early 2018, was designed to reduce the risk of area flooding by providing greater depth and improved conveyance through replacing the existing earthen channel with a concrete-lined channel with a low-flow section.
Due to a late 2017 court ruling limiting HCFCD’s usage of a 19-foot maintenance easement north of the Redford Apartments (1221 Redford Street, Houston, 77034), HCFCD will be repackaging and rebidding the remaining 65% of the Phase 3 project from Shawnee to Interstate 45 to reflect changed conditions regarding access to the channel. This change removes approximately 4,800 linear foot portion from the current 7,279 linear foot Phase 3 construction contract, which will now end south of the bridge at Shawnee Street. A new phase 4 will include the 4,800 linear foot portion of the work.
In order to complete the remaining work, HCFCD has initiated a new project, Project ID C106-03-00-C007, Phase 4 Channel Conveyance Improvements. The Phase 4 project will begin south of Shawnee Street and end south of Edgebrook Drive near Interstate 45. Patriot Construction tentatively plans to complete the modified scope of the Phase 3 project by the end of August 2019. HCFCD plans to advertise the Phase 4 project for construction bids in approximately October 2019.
Special thanks to Project Coordinator and avid community advocate, James Muecke, for his dedication to the project and commitment to flood mitigation in the Edgebrook corridor.
Bens Branch Update
Bens Branch, a Harris County Flood Control District channel within the Kingwood community stretching from Northpark to the West Fork of the San Jacinto River, was completely inundated with water and sediment during Hurricane Harvey. As a result, a considerable buildup of sediment infiltrated the southern bends of the channel south of Kingwood Drive around Town Center and behind the Lake Houston YMCA. This stretch of Bens Branch Channel from Kingwood Drive to about 1,800 linear feet downstream of West Lake Houston Parkway, is owned by the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD)
Other channels in Kingwood and the Lake Houston communities within the City of Houston are also being evaluated by HCFCD for projects. Currently, there is one portion of Ben’s Branch, between Woodland Hills and Rocky Woods Drive, that is under final review with City of Houston Legal, HCFCD and the Bens Branch Trail Association. Once that final review is complete HCFCD will be the owners of the Bens Branch channel, in its entirety, from Northpark Drive to 1,800 linear feet south of the channel’s intersection with West Lake Houston Parkway. Eventually most open and natural channels will be maintained by HCFCD while the City of Houston maintains all closed storm sewer systems.
Sylvan Rodriguez Park Habitat Restoration Scheduled
Last month, the Houston Parks and Recreation Department (HPARD) began habitat restoration work at Sylvan Rodriguez Park. With the finalization of the revised Sylvan Rodriguez Park Master Plan and community feedback in support of a natural park, the City of Houston is targeting 72 acres of the 113 acre park to restore to coastal prairie and riparian forest ecosystem.
Grant funding has been secured through the Texas General Land Office for three out of the four identified phases. The first phase of the project includes the clearing of several Chinese tallow and other non-native trees within 14 acres of the interior of the park. The removal of these trees is expected to be completed by the end of August 2019, weather permitting. Following the removal, the contractor will be mulching the trees onsite. The site will then be seeded and planted with native grasses and wildflowers through several community planting events held in the fall by HPARD. The District E office will notify residents once these planting events are scheduled.
As a result of the restoration activities, please be aware of signage and flags preventing the public from entering the work site. There will be an increase in noise levels due to equipment in the area, but it is not expected to impact the adjacent neighborhoods. Crews will be working on site Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
The restoration of coastal wetland prairie and forested riparian ecosystems at Sylvan Rodriguez Park will promote ecosystem regulating functions through soil retention, reduced sedimentation, and water purification. The restored prairie habitat will provide increased erosion control through the deep prairie grass roots and will provide bank stabilization in the riparian areas. Additionally, restoration of the area will help to slow and absorb floodwaters during rain events. The habitat created at the restoration site will attract many different wildlife species to the area including native insect pollinators and migratory birds.
This project will also provide educational opportunities for visitors of the park to experience and learn about the historic natural habitats that once existed in Houston. Interpretive signage along the boardwalk trails will deliver information on the importance of native prairies and wetlands and their impacts on wildlife and people.
Dylan Duncan Skate Park Ribbon Cutting
On Tuesday, July 16, Council Member Martin, in partnership with the Houston Parks and Recreation Department, hosted a ribbon cutting celebration to unveil the new improvements and renovations at the Dylan Duncan Skatepark in Kingwood. In Fiscal Year 2019, Council Member Martin was happy to allocate $49,332 of his Council District Service Funds to make the necessary renovations with the goal of improving safety and maximizing enjoyment for park goers.
The Dylan Duncan Skatepark, originally named the Kingwood Skatepark, was the very first public skatepark built by the City of Houston in 2004. It was renamed the Dylan Duncan Skatepark in December of 2006 after Dylan Jacob Duncan, an avid skater in the Kingwood area who passed away in 2005.
Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate these new improvements, including Elton Fritz, President of the Trailwood Village Homeowners Association, Robert Scarfo, Humble ISD Board of Trustees, and Daryl Palmer, Community Activist. We would also like to extend a special thanks to Nancy Harper, Dylan Duncan’s mom, who attended the event with Dylan’s friends and family.
Overlay Complete at Woodland Hills and Northpark
The Woodland Hills at Northpark Drive intersection overlay project began Tuesday, July 23. The resurfacing of the intersection was completed on Friday, July 26. Striping was completed on Wednesday, July 31 and loop detectors were installed today, August 2. Council Member Martin is happy to report that his project is now complete and looks forward to the improved driving conditions at this intersection.
The cost of the project is $134,415.70, which is being funded through Council Member Martin’s Fiscal Year 2018 Council District Service Funds.
Reseda Drive Safe Sidewalk Project
Houston Public Works will began making repairs to an existing sidewalk on Reseda Drive between Diana Lane and Torry Pines Road, last month.
As of this week, they are roughly 30% complete. Council Member Martin requested this project in collaboration with the Exploration Green Conservancy. This project will improve the sidewalk surface. Additionally, the area has seen more foot traffic since the completion of Exploration Green Phase One.
To address the safety hazards the sidewalk posed, Council Member Martin was happy to allocate $51,600 from Council District Service Funds to make the necessary repairs. Construction is anticipated to be completed before the start of the 2019 to 2020 school year.
Harris County Flood Control District Huffman Meeting
On Thursday, July 11, Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) hosted a Community Engagement Meeting to discuss upcoming bond projects in the Huffman area. HCFCD staff was present to gather public input and ideas from the community regarding the upcoming San Jacinto River, Luce Bayou, and Cedar Bayou bond projects. You can read more about the HCFCD bond projects here on their website.
For more information, you can view the presentation here. If you have any additional questions, please contact the Harris County Flood Control District Hotline by calling 713-684-4000.
Forest Cove Townhomes
The District E office continues to monitor the progress of the Harris County Flood Control District Buyout Process. As of this month, HCFCD has continued with the purchase and demolition of some properties located in the Forest Cove Townhome Community as part of their Home Buyout Program.
HCFCD has purchased all units in the following buildings: 1102 Marina, 1050 Marina, 1060 Marina, 1040 Marina, 1030 Marina, 930 Aqua Vista, and 803/5 Timberline. There are approximately 19 more units to purchase to have complete ownership.
The following buildings have been demolished: 1050 Marina, 1060 Marina, and 803/5 Timberline. HCFCD is in the process of demolishing 1102 Marina, 1040 Marina, 1030 Marina, and 930 Aqua Vista. As HCFCD completes ownership on the 19 remaining units, the demolitions of those buildings will follow.
The District E office greatly appreciates everything HCFCD has done in keeping our office informed on the status of the demolition process for these Hurricane Harvey buyout properties. We would also like to thank the City of Houston Police Department and Houston Fire Department for their efforts in monitoring this area and responding to concerns when needed. Council Member Martin encourages residents to continue reporting any suspicious activity or illegal dumping to 3-1-1 by calling (713) 837-0311.
HPD Clear Lake School Supply Giveaway
The Houston Police Department Clear Lake Division will be hosting its 2nd Annual School Supply Giveaway on August 3, 2019. The event will be held from 10:00 a.m to 2:00 p.m. at the Grace Community Church, located at 14505 Gulf Freeway.
The goal of this event is to help lessen the financial burden on families by providing school supplies for students in the area. Last year’s event was a success and this years will be bigger and better. Come out with the family for school supplies and fun!
First Responders Back to School Bash in Kingwood
Council Member Martin encourages all Kingwood residents to attend the 2nd Annual First Responders Back to School Bash which will be held on August 3 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Creekwood Middle School, 3603 West Lake Houston Parkway. It’s a great opportunity to interact with local law enforcement, and celebrate the end of summer before the 2019 to 2020 school year begins.
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership Legislative Update
On Tuesday, July 23, Council Member Martin attended Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership’s (BAHEP) Annual Legislative Session Wrap-Up Reception at the South Shore Harbour Resort. Attendees had the opportunity to hear updates from Senators Larry Taylor and Carol Alvarado, and Representatives Dennis Paul, Ed Thompson, and Mary Ann Perez on the 86th Texas Legislative Session. These legislators covered several topics during the discussion including transportation, education, school safety, and coastal spine protection.
Thank you to BAHEP for organizing another successful legislative update and to our elected officials for representing our region in Austin, Texas.
Lake Houston Area Chamber of Commerce Inaugural Pinnacle Business Awards
On Tuesday, July 23, the Lake Houston Area Chamber of Commerce hosted their Inaugural Pinnacle Business Awards, honoring several businesses in the Lake Houston Area.
Congratulations to this years winners: Small Business of the Year, Pines Montessori School, Large Business of the Year, JLA Realty, and Franchise Business of the Year, Chick-fil-A at Wilson/Beltway 8.
Council Member Martin congratulates the award recipients on their achievements and accomplishments in the Lake Houston area.
Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce General Membership Lunch
On Wednesday, July 31, Council Member Martin and staff attended the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce General Membership Luncheon at the Hilton NASA Clear Lake. The luncheon spotlighted Ellington Airport General Manager Arturo Machuca who provided an update on the Future of the Houston Spaceport.
The Phase 1 Expansion at the Houston Spaceport is now underway with the construction of streets, water and wastewater, pipelines, electrical power, distribution and communication facilities approved by City Council in October 2018. The construction is anticipated to be completed by May 2020, weather permitting.
Community Grant Workshops
Houston Arts Alliance (HAA) will be hosting Community Grant Workshops in District E in the coming weeks.
The goal of the HAA introductory grants workshop is to create a mutual learning environment where HAA will share information about the City of Houston’s grant programs as well as learn the needs of the community through this in-person session.
A meeting in Clear Lake recently took place on Tuesday, July 30. Kingwood residents/artists are encouraged to save the date for the workshop on Saturday, August 10 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Kingwood Community Center, 4102 Rustic Woods, Kingwood, Texas 77345.
Houston Fire Department Back to School Immunizations
The Houston Fire Department and the Care Van Program once again are teaming up to provide free immunizations at their annual Back-To-School Immunization Extravaganza on August 15 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the HFD Val Jahnke Training Facility, 8030 Braniff, Houston, Texas 77061.
The free immunizations are only available for uninsured or Medicaid children ages 4 to 18 years. Children with CHIP or private insurance cannot be serviced. Parents must accompany their children and provide their most current immunization records.
If you have any questions please contact HFD Public Affairs at 832-394-6636 or paul.box@houstontx.gov.
Houston Police Department Summer Crime Prevention Tips
Council Member Martin reminds District E residents of the following safety tips from HPD:
Make sure all windows and doors are locked whether you are home or away;
Activate your alarm system regardless of how long you anticipate being away from home;
Never leave jewelry or valuables in plain view;
Take photos of valuables and their identification numbers and keep these images on a zip drive;
Set interior home lights on a timer;
Maintain adequate exterior lighting and keep bushes and shrubs trimmed;
Always keep your vehicle car doors locked and windows closed;
While out shopping, do not move items from inside your vehicle into the trunk in public view;
Finally, get to know your neighbors, be aware of your surroundings at all time and report all suspicious activity to the police immediately.
Travis Manion Foundation 9/11 Heroes Run
Mark your calendars! The annual 9/11 Heroes Run will be held on Saturday, September 7 at City Hall.
Founded in honor of 1st Lieutenant Travis Manion, who gave his life while serving in Iraq in 2009, the Travis Manion Foundation (TMF) assists American veterans and the families of the fallen in addition to organizing a number of charitable initiatives including the 9/11 Heroes Run. Interested participants can register online here.
The 9/11 Heroes Run is more than the race, there are opportunities to become a foundation ambassador. TMF’s Character Does Matter Program provides veterans and their families with an opportunity to inspire young adults to develop their leadership skills, live with character, and call them to serve within their communities in honor of fallen heroes. For more information on the foundation click here.
Upcoming Events
Please email the District E office if you would like us to include your upcoming event in future newsletters!
City Wides August 6 Budget and Fiscal Affairs Committee
September 2Labor Day – City Holiday – Offices Closed
Kingwood August 3 Kingwood Electronic Waste Recycling
August 3 Kingwood First Responders Back to School Bash
August 10 Houston Arts Alliance Community Grants Workshop
August 14Kingwood Service Association Public Safety Committee
August 20Kingwood PIP
August 21Kingwood Super Neighborhood Meeting
Southeast Houston/Clear Lake
August 3 HPD Clear Lake Division School Supply Giveaway
August 8 Meadowcreek Civic Club Meeting
August 10 Clear Lake Electronic Waste Recycling
August 14 ACLC Monthly Meeting
August 20 Clear Lake PIP
August 28 Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce General Membership Luncheon
The next Board meeting of the Lake Houston Community Association (HOA) will be Tuesday, July 16, 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at Community Asset Management’s office.
Community Asset Management 9802 FM 1960 Bypass West, Suite 210 Humble, TX 77338 281-852-1155
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 9, 2019 Contact: Jessica Beemer (832) 393-3008 districte@houstontx.gov
Weather Delay: Overlay Scheduled for Woodland Hills at Northpark Drive Houston, TX – Houston City Council Member Dave Martin would like to make Kingwood residents aware the Woodland Hills at Northpark Drive overlay project has been delayed until next week, Wednesday, July 17, in anticipation of the predicted weather.
The scope of work includes resurfacing the asphalt street. This process includes milling off an approximate 2-inch layer of old asphalt, repairing the base as needed, spraying tack coat and overlaying 2 inches of new asphalt surface pavement. An overlay at this intersection has not been completed since Council Member Martin has been in office and is well overdue. The cost of the project is $134,415.70.
The project is scheduled to begin on the evening of Wednesday, July 17 and will be completed by Sunday, July 21, weather permitting. Crews are expected to work between 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Wednesday through Friday, in an effort to avoid peak traffic hours. Crews plan to work throughout the day on Saturday, July 20. As a result of the construction activities, please be aware of flagmen and orange traffic cones that will be put in place on site to help with traffic flow through the construction zone. Temporary lane closures and traffic delays are expected during construction hours.
Residents are encouraged to find alternate routes throughout the duration of the project. For access to the communities north of Northpark Drive and Woodland Hills, the suggested alternate routes are as follows: Glade Valley to Chanay Lane, Forest Bluff, and Bassingham Drive.
For more information, please contact Council Member Dave Martin’s office at (832) 393-3008 or districte@houstontx.gov. -end-
On Thursday, July 4th the First Potluck in the Park was held. A big THANK YOU to our host, Mary Timura and Diana Barker and all of their wonderful volunteers. It was a great success with 47 residents!
Residents of District E, The beginning of summer has been busy here at City Hall. City Council passed the $5.2 billion Fiscal Year 2020 Operating Budget last week by a 12 to 4 vote. This budget includes five Houston Police Cadet Classes and fully funds the City’s pension obligations, for the third consecutive year in a row. The Fiscal Year 2020 budget does not include any layoffs, demotions, or deferrals.
This year many amendments sent to the administration were approved, including my zero-based budgeting amendment, co-authored with Council Member Knox, to be implemented in Fiscal Year 2021. For the second year in a row, I submitted an amendment to create a Lake Houston Maintenance Fund using permit fees generated from the Lake Houston Area and this year, it passed. Over the next year the District E office will work closely with Houston Public Works and Solid Waste Management Departments to identify measures to continue regular maintenance of the City’s tributaries and sediment located in the San Jacinto River’s East and West Fork, along with Lake Houston.
Overall, the Fiscal Year 2020 budget maintains a healthy fund balance and includes contingency funds for pay raises and hurricane preparedness. In this budget, $11.1 million was cut in city department spending. This is the fourth year in a row that department budgets have decreased.
Moving forward, I will continue to work hard alongside my colleagues to make fiscally conservative decisions regarding the city’s finances and fight for District E residents. To watch the budget discussion, it can be viewed online here.
In addition to budget season, the District E Office has been busy tracking projects including the expansion of Northpark Drive and El Dorado Boulevard, additional dredging on the West Fork of the San Jacinto River by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, kick off of the Bens Branch restoration and conveyance project as well as the Horsepen Bayou Channel Improvement Project in collaboration with Harris County Flood Control.
The District E office has also identified six new District E drainage improvement projects to be completed utilizing the Stormwater Action Team Program during Fiscal Year 2020 in the Forest Cove, Huffman, South Belt-Ellington, and Northshore areas. Keep in mind that all drainage in Clear Lake is under the jurisdiction of the Clear Lake City Water Authority and concerns should be reported to them directly by calling (281) 488-1164.
The post-Harvey recovery process has been steadily moving forward at a pace that while slow has been consistent. I am committed to following through on projects from Kingwood to Clear Lake that will reduce future flooding for residents. I will continue to work day and night to make sure that we are not forgotten and our concerns are heard. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to serve as your District Council Member.
In observance of Independence Day, the District E office will be closed tomorrow, Thursday, July 4.
Sincerely,
Dave Martin The District E Office 900 Bagby, First FloorHouston, TX 77002 Contact Information Email: districte@houstontx.gov Phone: (832) 393-3008 Fax: (832) 393-3279 District E Team Jessica Beemer Chief of Staff Katherine Cunningham Deputy Chief of Staff Jordan McGinty South Sector Manager Clarissa Perez North Sector Manager Firework Safety Council Member Martin would like to remind District E residents the use of fireworks are not only illegal in the City and parts of the County, but they are also very dangerous.
It is illegal to discharge fireworks in the City of Houston. Texas House Bill HB1813 allows for the transportation of fireworks. However, there are restrictions including where the fireworks are located inside the vehicle and if they are opened or unopened. The City will continue to enforce, in compliance with state law, fire and safety regulations within the city. Harris County residents should also be aware the Houston Fire Department will be enforcing the fireworks ban in the Limited Purpose Annexation Areas. The fines can range anywhere from $500 to $2,000 for each individual firework.
If a minor is caught with fireworks, the parent or guardian will receive the fine, even if they were unaware of the minor’s possession and/or usage. Even though it is legal to buy, possess, and use consumer fireworks in the unincorporated areas of Harris County, there are some places you cannot use fireworks even in the unincorporated county. These locations include: churches, hospitals, licensed child care centers, or a public or private primary or secondary school or institution of higher education unless the individual receives authorization in writing from that organization.
Although fireworks and celebrations go together, especially during the holiday season, they can be dangerous when used improperly; causing serious burn and eye injuries.
Citizens should report all complaints regarding the illegal use of fireworks directly to the Houston Police Department non-emergency line at 713-884-3131. For emergencies, please call 9-1-1.
Freedom Over Texas This year, guests will celebrate more than America’s Freedom at the city’s signature Independence Day event, as this July marks the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon Landing. CITGO Freedom Over Texas has partnered with NASA’s Johnson Space Center, to bring an exclusive Space City Experience to all patrons at the event featuring its history and what the future holds for intergalactic exploration and travel. The signature area will include an opportunity to be up close and personal with astronauts, robotic demonstrations, virtual reality fieldtrips to the International Space Station, the Space Exploration Vehicle (SEV), NASA’s Destination Station, and other NASA assets and activities.
Houston’s annual July 4th event will also feature NEW live music. Headlining the main stage will be multi chart-topping singer/ songwriter Jake Owen with special guest country music star Kellie Pickler. The live performances will be followed by an astronomical fireworks show provided by CITGO.
The Walmart All-American Kids Zone will feature local performances by norteño band Los Luzeros de Rioverde, a contemporary performance and aerialist show celebrating space exploration by Aldine Carver Dance Company, and appearances from your favorite storybook characters and superheroes. There will be life size games, carnival rides, a rock wall and obstacle course – something for every age.
Launched last year, the CITGO Freedom Over Texas mobile app provides an accessible tool to navigate through the largest Fourth of July Celebration in the state. Available in the iOS App store or Android Google Play Store, FOT2019 will offer patrons the ability to purchase tickets, view performance schedules and maps, and get parking tips and other helpful hints to enhance the event experience. Guests can check their mobile devices for the latest app updates coming soon.
This year’s festivities at Eleanor Tinsley and Sam Houston Parks on Buffalo Bayou (along Allen Parkway) include the Walmart All-American Kids Zone, a children’s entertainment area with a stage featuring performances for young and old, alike; the Bud Light Bayou Beer Garden, featuring a fun in the sun good time; the Dr Pepper Zone, featuring Houston professional sports teams, live music and food; Liberty Park featuring US Family Health Plan’s Symbols of Freedom, the Space City Experience, and a salute to all five branches of the military; and, an exciting fireworks finale sponsored by CITGO to end the evening.
For more information about this year’s event click here.
Space Month in Houston, Texas The District E office kicked off Space Month in Houston, Texas on Friday, June 28, as District E staff attended the Apollo Mission Control Center Grand Opening Celebration. The Mission Control Center (MCC) at the Johnson Space Center is home to the planning, command, and monitoring controls, essential to America’s human spaceflight program. The restoration project began in January 2017, and has been completed in time for the 50th Anniversary of the Apollo 11 lunar landing. The MCC is complete with the original paint upholstery and furnishings; restored mission medallions, seating; flags; replicated carpet, wallpaper and ceiling tiles; and recreated content on the summary display screens and mission clocks.
The Apollo Anniversary Celebration will continue through the month of July as NASA will be joining in the City of Houston’s Fourth of July celebrations at Freedom Over Texas in honor of the 50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing. Visitors at Freedom Over Texas will have the opportunity to check out NASA’s Destination Station exhibit throughout the event, and share special messages throughout the day. Space Center Houston is also participating in this month long celebration, from the anniversary of the Apollo 11 blastoff on July 16 through the mission’s conclusion when the astronauts safely splashed down on Earth on July 24. Check out the several events at Space Center Houston cheduled for July 16 through July 24 by clicking here. The biggest celebration at Space Center Houston will be held on Saturday, July 20. Apollo 11 50th Live is an all-day lunar celebration and countdown to Neil Armstrong’s first steps on the Moon. Discover an array of space themed experiences including late-night NASA Tram Tours, notable speakers, book signings, an outdoor festival with a concert featuring WALK THE MOON and Phillip Phillips, a family TEM zone and more. Tickets are still available here!
Woodland Hills Overlay The Woodland Hills at Northpark Drive overlay project has been delayed until Wednesday, July 10 to better accommodate traffic in the area. The scope of work includes resurfacing the asphalt street. This process includes milling off an approximate 2-inch layer of old asphalt, repairing the base as needed, spraying tack coat and overlaying 2 inches of new asphalt surface pavement. An overlay at this intersection has not been completed since Council Member Martin has been in office and is well overdue. The cost of the project is $134,415.70. The project is scheduled to begin on the evening of Wednesday, July 10 and will be completed by Sunday, July 14, weather permitting. Crews re expected to work between 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., Wednesday through Friday, in an effort to avoid peak traffic hours. Crews plan to work throughout the day on Saturday, July 13. As a result of the construction activities, please be aware of flagmen and orange traffic cones that will be put in place on site to help with traffic flow through the construction zone. Temporary lane closures and traffic delays are expected during construction hours. Residents are encouraged to find alternate routes throughout the duration of the project.
For access to the communities north of Northpark Drive and Woodland Hills, the suggested alternate routes are as follows: Glade Valley to Chanay Lane, Forest Bluff, and Bassingham Drive.
Plum Hollow Drive Panel Replacement Houston Public Works crews will begin a panel replacement in the Clear Lake area, along Plum Hollow Drive, from Brook Forest Drive to Hickory Knoll Drive, on Monday, July 8. The work is expected to be complete within 30 days, weather permitting. The scope of work includes replacing several panels along the roadway. Crews will be on site from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. As a result of the construction activities, please be aware of flagmen and orange traffic cones hat will be put in place on site to help with traffic flow through the construction zone as temporary lane closures are expected. One lane will remain open during the repairs process. Residents will have access to driveways at all times, and may experience an increase in noise levels due to trucks and equipment in the area. For more information, please contact Council Member Dave Martin’s office at (832) 393-3008 or districte@houstontx.gov.
Bens Branch Update Bens Branch, a channel within the Kingwood community stretching from Northpark to the West Fork of the San Jacinto River, was completely inundated with water and sediment during Hurricane Harvey. As a result, a considerable buildup of sediment infiltrated the southern bends of the channel south of Kingwood Drive around Town Center and behind the Lake Houston YMCA. This stretch of Bens Branch Channel from Kingwood Drive to about 1,800 linear feet downstream of West Lake Houston Parkway, is owned by the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) .
As property owners of this channel, HCFCD has completed their field survey of the reach to remove sediment accumulations within the system and restore channel conveyance capacity. Conveyance Restoration on Bens Branch is currently in the award phase. A recommendation to award to Solid Bridge Construction, LLC, has been made, and that recommendation to award is scheduled to be on the Harris County Commissioners Court Agenda for approval on July 9, 2019. Once the award has been approved by Commissioners Court, the Harris County Purchasing Agent’s office will work to obtain the executed contract, and the necessary bonds from the Contractor so that the project can move forward to construction.
Other channels in Kingwood and the Lake Houston communities within the City of Houston are also being evaluated by HCFCD for projects. Currently, there is one portion of Ben’s Branch, between Woodland Hills and Rocky Woods Drive, that is under final review with City of Houston Legal, HCFCD and the Bens Branch Trail Association. Once that final review is complete HCFCD will be the owners of the Bens Branch channel from Northpark Drive to 1,800 linear feet south of the channel’s intersection with West Lake Houston Parkway. Eventually most open and natural channels will be maintained by HCFCD while the City of Houston maintains all closed storm sewer systems and drainage.
Miles Street Public Meeting Houston Public Works will be hosting a public meeting regarding the upcoming Miles Street Roadway Pavement Replacement Project on Tuesday, July 9 in the multi-purpose room at Woodland Acres Middle School (12947 Myrtle Lane, Houston Texas 77015). There will be an open house portion for residents and usiness owners to examine exhibits and material s at 6:00 p.m. Houston Public Works will begin their formal presentation at 6:30 p.m.
The purpose of the meeting is to inform residents and business owners on what to expect during the upcoming replacement of Miles Street, from Market Street to Industrial Road. The scope of work for the project includes pavement replacement, manhole adjusting, and ditch grading. The work is expected to begin in July 2019, and be completed end of January 2020, weather permitting.
For those unable to attend, the materials presented will be uploaded to Council Member Martin’s website following the meeting. Additionally, questions or comments related to this project may be sent directly to Houston Public Works by emailing buildforward@houstontx.gov.
Huffman Community Engagement Meeting with HCFCD Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) will be hosting a Community Engagement Meeting to discuss upcoming bond projects in the Huffman area will take place on Thursday, July 11, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the May Community Center, 2100 Wolf Road, Huffman, Texas 77336. HCFCD staff will be present to gather public input and ideas from the community regarding the upcoming San Jacinto River, Luce Bayou, and Cedar Bayou bond projects. You can read more about the HCFCD bond projects at this link. For more information, please contact Harris County looFd Control District Hotline by calling 713-684-4000.
USACE Dredging Update In a news release on June 10, 2019, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Galveston District staff executed a modification to the West Fork San Jacinto River Emergency Debris Removal contract June 7, 2019, to dredge an additional 497,400 cubic yards of material that was deposited in the mouth of the San Jacinto River from Hurricane Harvey.
“This contract modification will ensure a decrease in threats to critical infrastructure and lower the risk to potential loss of life,” said Charles Wheeler, USACE Galveston District Project Manager. “This is an ongoing contract that is part of a Federal Emergency Management Agency mission assignment.”
According to USACE Galveston District officials, the dredged material will be placed at the existing location referred to as Placement Area 2, located approximately 10 miles upriver. The additional dredging is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2019, with the demobilization of the equipment completed by early 2020.
Removal of Clear Lake Dynamic Message Signs Council Member Martin would like to make Clear Lake residents aware the four recently installed Dynamic Message Signs (DMS) have been removed from the Clear Lake area. On Tuesday, June 4, Council Member Martin was made aware of four DMS signs being constructed near the following intersections: Clear Lake City Boulevard and Space Center Boulevard, Bay Area Boulevard and Space Center Boulevard, Bay Area Boulevard and El Camino Real, and El Dorado and Highway 3. Based on overwhelming feedback the District E office received from the community, and Council Member Martin’s own concerns with the location of these signs in residential areas, Council Member Martin requested all four signs be removed by Houston Public Works immediately.
Thank you to the residents who have contacted our office regarding this matter. Council Member Martin, with your assistance, was able to coordinate with Houston Public Works to have these signs removed swiftly.
Lake Houston Area Chamber State of the State Luncheon On Thursday, June 27, District E staff attended the Lake Houston Area Chamber of Commerce State of the State Luncheon featuring Representative Dan Huberty and Senator Brandon Creighton. The luncheon was a great opportunity to hear updates from our state leaders regarding the 86th Legislative Session.
As Chairman of the House Public Education Committee, Representative Huberty was vital in the passing of House Bill 3. This was a monumental achievement that will transform public school finance in the State of Texas. As the author of the now passed Senate Bill 7, Senator Creighton established two new funds to address the effects of Hurricane Harvey and prepare for future flooding and disasters. These funds are known as the Texas Infrastructure Resilience Fund and the Flood Infrastructure Fund.
Council Member Martin thanks Representative Huberty and Senator Creighton for their tireless efforts during the recent legislative session.
Harris County Flood Warning System San Jacinto River Authority (SJRA) recently announced a project resulting from their ongoing partnership with Harris County Flood Control District to provide residents of Montgomery, Harris, and surrounding counties the ability to sign up and receive water level and rainfall alerts. Automated alert notifications will be delivered via text message or e-mail when defined rainfall or water level values are reached at specific rainfall and stream gauges, alerting residents of potential high water threats.
The Flood Warning System (FWS) rainfall and stream gauge alerts are based on information gathered at over 250 gauge locations across the region by numerous agencies, including Harris, Brazoria, Fort Bend, Montgomery, Galveston, and Waller Counties, City of Mont Belvieu, City of Sugar Land, The Woodlands, and SJRA.
“Water level determination is essential knowledge during potential flooding events,” said Chuck Gilman Director of Water Resources and Flood Management for the San Jacinto River Authority. “Our collaboration with Harris County Flood Control will take data from gauges across the region and give the public another tool to manage the threat of flooding in our area.”
“One of the biggest takeaways from Hurricane Harvey was the need for automated notifications to be delivered in a timely manner and this enhancement will help to accomplish that effort” stated Jeff Lindner, Director of Hydrologic Operations and Meteorologist for the Flood Control District. “Residents can use the new alerts feature to make timely, informed decisions on how to protect themselves, their families, and property.”
The feature allows residents to create customized water level alerts or select from pre-defined rainfall and water level values that have been developed and utilized by local government officials. Create an account and sign up for alerts at www.fwsalerts.org.
HPD Clear Lake School Supply Giveaway The Houston Police Department Clear Lake Division will be hosting its 2nd Annual School Supply Giveaway on August 3, 2019. The event will be held from 10:00 a.m to 2:00 p.m. at the Grace Community Church, located at 14505 Gulf Freeway.
The goal of this event is to help lessen the financial burden on families by providing school supplies for students in the area. Last year’s event was a success and this years will be bigger and better.
Come out with the family for school supplies and fun!
Dylan Duncan Skatepark Ribbon Cutting Council Member Martin is pleased to announce the unveiling of the newly refurbished Dylan Duncan Skatepark through the use of his Council District Service Funds. The following improvements have been made with the help of Houston Parks and Recreation Department: updated equipment, recoated surfaces, added barriers, power washing and painting, and various other repairs as needed.
To celebrate these improvements, Council Member Martin together with Houston Parks and Recreation Department will host a ribbon cutting on Tuesday, July 16 at 9:00 a.m. at the Skatepark (3950 Rustic Woods, Kingwood).
NFIP Flood Claims Workshop The City of Houston and Montgomery County partnered together to host a flood claims workshop at the Kingwood Community Center. On June 19 the event was held for individuals that were impacted by previous flood damages and had questions about the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) process. The workshop provided an opportunity for residents to discuss their claims one-on-one with FEMA flood claim experts. Information from this meeting has been saved and posted on Council Member Martin’s website. In addition, information was handed out about the U.S. Small Business Association Mitigation Loans process.
Those interested may contact the SBA at (800) 659-2955 or disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. Each case is different, borrowers should contact SBA to determine eligibility.
Spaceport Phase One Groundbreaking On Friday, June 28, staff from Council Member Martin’s office attended the Spaceport Phase One Groundbreaking at Ellington Airport. The Phase 1 Expansion is now underway with the construction of streets, water and wastewater, pipelines, electrical power and distribution and communications facilities approved by City Council in October 2018. The construction is anticipated to be completed by May 2020, weather permitting. Friday’s Groundbreaking celebration included comments from Houston Airport System Directo r Mario Diaz, Rob Lowe with the Federal Aviation Administration, Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership President Bob Mitchel, San Jacinto College Chancellor Dr. Brenda Hellyer, and President & CEO of Intuitive Machines, Steve Altemus. Council Member Martin looks forward to the future development of the Houston Spaceport.
YMCA Grand Reopening On Tuesday, June 11, District E staff attended the Lake Houston YMCA Ribbon Cutting and Grand Reopening. This was a long-awaited event after the Lake Houston YMCA was devastated by Hurricane Harvey and had to close their doors for renovation. Council Member Martin was honored to present a City of Houston Certificate of Special Recognition to the Lake Houston YMCA for this great achievement. The Lake Houston YMCA has been a staple in the community for the past 37 years and we are grateful to have them servicing the Lake Houston area again.
Community Grant Workshops Houston Arts Alliance (HAA) will be hosting Community Grant Workshops in District E in the coming weeks.
The goal of the HAA introductory grants workshop is to create a mutual learning environment where HAA will share information about the City of Houston’s grant programs as well as learn the needs of the community through this in- person session.
Residents are encouraged to save the date for the following District E workshops:
Tuesday, July 30 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Freeman Branch Library 16616 Diana Lane, Houston, TX 77062
August 10 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Kingwood Community Center 4102 Rustic Woods, Kingwood TX 77345
Mayor’s Back2School Fest The Mayor’s Back to School Event 2019 will be Saturday August 3. This event is designed to help economically disadvantaged Houston area elementary school students and their families as they prepare to return to school. With the help of many great partners and sponsors, backpacks, school supplies, health screenings, immunizations, and social service resources are provided to thousands of students, free of charge.
Due to limited space and supplies, you must PRE-REGISTER to attend this event, by clicking here.
Upcoming Events Please email the District E office if you would like us to include your upcoming event in future newsletters!
City Wides July 4CITGO Freedom Over Texas Celebration July 9Budget and Fiscal Affairs Committee July 30Budget and Fiscal Affairs Committee Kingwood July 6Kingwood Electronic Waste Recycling July 10Kingwood Service Association Public Safety Committee July 11Huffman Drainage Meeting with HCFCD July 16Dylan Duncan Skatepark Ribbon Cutting July 16Kingwood PIP July 22Huffman Quarterly Public Safety Meeting *Kingwood Super Neighborhood Meetings are in recess until August 21
Southeast Houston/Clear Lake
July 9Miles Street Reconstruction Public Meeting July 9Arlington Heights Civic Club Meeting July 13Clear Lake Electronic Waste Recycling July 16Clear Lake PIP July 20Apollo 11 50th Anniversary Celebration at Space Center Houston July 25Freeway Manor Civic Club Meeting July 31Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce General Membership Luncheon
Enclave residents will
be gathering at the park/pool area on THURSDAY, JULY 4 AT 6:00 p.m. to
celebrate the holiday and would like to invite other Enclave residents to join
in the fun. This will be a great
opportunity to meet and greet our new neighbors!
The organizing residents are trying to keep this very simple and are requesting everyone to bring their own chairs and drinks (no glass containers or alcohol) – plus a dish to share. Plates, silverware and napkins will be supplied and six tables will be available to hold the prepared dishes. If anyone has a canopy tent that would be greatly appreciated.
If you need additional
information please contact:
Mary Timura – 281 253-0620
Or
Diana Barker – 832 499-6556
Please extend an
invitation to any resident who may not be on the Enclave website and encourage
them to sign up for the newsletter.
Just in case: Rain Date is Friday, July 5th
THE ENCLAVE JULY 4TH POTLUCK MEET & GREET AT THE POOL/PARK
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