Mayor Pro Tem Martin's August 2023 Newsletter

Monthly Newsletter

August 4, 2023 Issue 127

Dear District E residents,

I hope this newsletter finds you well as we gear up for the start of a new school year. With the start of the academic year, it's essential to reorient ourselves with morning traffic congestion, school zones, speed limits, and a lot more walking and biking within our communities.

1. Back to School Safety Starts with Routine

Starting off on the right foot is crucial in making the transition from summer to school. There is a lot of construction right now and making sure you have enough time for delays in your morning routines is key to cut down on morning stress.

2. Pedestrian/Bicycle Safety -- Put those Phones Down

With the increased volume of children walking to and from school, it's vital that you are focused on pedestrian and bicycle safety. Please make sure you are vigilant checking your surroundings and stopping at the white stop bars located at crosswalks.

3. School Zones

School zones require heightened attention and adherence to specific traffic laws. We will remind you of the importance of obeying speed limits, watching out for school buses, and understanding crosswalk and signage rules.

4. Community Awareness

Building a strong sense of community is crucial in keeping our neighborhoods safe and secure. If you have never attended a Houston Police Department Positive Interaction Program (PIP) Meeting, our office highly encourages it as monthly crime statistics are presented along with safety tips directly from our local HPD Patrol Officers.

HPD Northeast Division PIP, August 12 at 6:30 P.M.
Always the Second Thursday located at the HPD Northeast Division Station, 8301 Ley Road

HPD Clear Lake Division PIP, August 15 at 6:00 P.M.
Always the Third Tuesday in the Southeast Memorial Hermann Hospital CES Classroom, 11800 Astoria Boulevard

HPD Kingwood Division PIP, August 15 at 7:00 P.M.
Always the Third Tuesday in the South Woodland Hills Community Room, 2901 South Woodland Hills

We believe by coming together as a community, we can make a significant difference in ensuring the safety of our children and communities. Wishing all of our schoolteachers, janitors, and administrators a smooth start to this school year. Together, let's make this school year the safest and most successful one yet!

Sincerely,

The District E Office

Mayor Pro Tem Dave Martin

900 Bagby, First Floor

Houston, TX 77002

Email: districte@houstontx.gov

Phone: (832) 393-3008

The District E Team

Jessica Beemer

Chief of Staff

Dustin Hodges

Deputy Chief of Staff and North Sector Manager

Daria Glasscock

Constituent Outreach Representative and South Sector Manager

Demari Perez

Executive Assistant & Scheduler

Yasmine Perez

Office Manager

City Resources

Kingwood Community Center

(281) 348-2570

Houston 311 (713) 837-0311

City of Houston Solid Waste Department

City of Houston Office of Emergency Management

Community Resources

Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce

South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce

Partnership Lake Houston

Kingwood Service Association

Kingwood Super Neighborhood Council

HPD-Kingwood Welcomes

Adrian Rodriguez as New Commander

The District E Office would like to introduce the new Commander of Houston Police Department's Kingwood Division, Adrian Rodriguez. As Commander, he will be leading over 75 patrol officers at the Kingwood Station.

Commander Rodriguez was born in the greater East End of Houston but later moved into the Humble area where he graduated from Humble High School in 1999. He then continued his education and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Leadership and a Master of Science in Strategic Leadership from Mountain State University.

Commander Rodriguez strives for professional growth and graduated from the FBI National Academy Session #278, Leadership Houston class #41, Senior Management Institute for Police (S.M.I.P.) Session #86 and Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas (L.E.M.I.T.) Class #94.

Commander Rodriguez began his law enforcement career in 2003. Among his assignments in service of the citizens of Houston, he was at the Northeast Patrol station as a patrol officer and then with the community service and DRT teams. As a supervisor, he was a Sergeant at Mid-West patrol division and Kingwood Division. As a Lieutenant, he served at the Northeast patrol and Kingwood patrol stations, and as a Commander he led the South Gessner Division in the Southwest part of Houston.

Commander Rodriguez is committed and dedicated to relational policing wherein each contact with a citizen is an opportunity to improve relationships and a means by which to build trust. Commander Rodriguez leads from the front line during all major events. He is especially committed to youth mentoring programs that aid in bridging the gaps in trust and communication with the police. He is committed to strong community policing and has a proven record of bringing unity within the community, balanced with leading operational improvements and initiatives, which have enhanced departmental productivity and reduced costs.

The District E office is thrilled to have Commander Rodriguez back at the Kingwood Division and looks forward to his leadership as Commander.

Freeway Manor Park Ribbon Cutting Event

The Houston Parks and Recreation Department is excited to announce that Freeway Manor Park will be hosting a special ribbon cutting event on Saturday, August 19 at 10 a.m. This event marks an important milestone in the development and enhancement of the park, and they invite the community to join them in celebrating this occasion. The ribbon cutting ceremony will be attended by local officials, community leaders, and residents who have been eagerly anticipating the completion of the park's renovations.

Some of the improvements at Freeway Manor Park included resurfacing the parking lot, repairing the walking trail, replacing park benches, regrading the baseball field, updating the picnic areas, repurposing the existing tennis court to a soccer mini-pitch, and improving park lighting.

The Houston Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for the continuous operation and upkeep of the parks, examining and approving plans, and delivering the public funding commitment. Houston Parks Board is serving as the project manager and overseeing the private fundraising for the 50/50 Park Partners initiative in coordination with Greater Houston Partnership.

Kingwood Water & Wastewater Facilities Repairs Underway

Since last Spring, Houston Public Works has been actively working on repairs for the water and wastewater facilities in Kingwood. Inframark left the facilities in need of significant maintenance work, and Houston Water has been working hard to ensure the system runs efficiently. While they are carefully planning and coordinating repairs to minimize impacts, there is still a possibility that repairs may result in temporary low water pressures.

At the Kingwood Central Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), several repairs and replacements have been made in an effort to eliminate any non-compliance, including cleaning ultra-violet (UV) lamps and sleeves, installing new cloth filters, ordering new parts for the sand filter, and repairing the conveyor belt for the belt press. Operations have also made adjustments to improve the process, such as installing temporary blowers, mobilizing standby generators, purchasing bleach totes, and adjusting the return-activated sludge flow. They have also focused on lowering solids inventory to minimize odors and prevent process drain overflows.

At the Forest Cove WWTP, UV lamps have been cleaned, seals have been replaced, and airlifts have been fixed. In Cedar Bayou WWTP, return airlifts have been cleaned, and potable water lines have been repaired. A 6-inch to 4-inch sludge hauling repair was completed at West Lake Houston WWTP, and mechanical bar screen repairs and non-potable water pump repairs have been performed at Kingwood West WWTP. Additionally, all 62 lift stations have been properly maintained, and pumps have been optimized for efficient pumping.

The repairs and maintenance work being carried out by Houston Public Works are aimed at ensuring the water and wastewater facilities in Kingwood are operating at their best. The diligent efforts made by Houston Water and the ongoing repairs and improvements will benefit the community by providing a more reliable water and wastewater system.

Northpark Drive Overpass Project Monthly Update

Construction began on the Northpark Drive Overpass Project in July. In the coming weeks, residents can expect to see the contractor, Harper Bros. Construction, installing reinforced concrete pipes and boxes within the median which will serve as an improved drainage component for Northpark Drive. With the installation of these pieces, residents may encounter the contractor moving equipment, supplies, materials, and traffic control items.

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 as the project may require temporary lane closures at times. Two lanes, both ways will be maintained during peak travel times. When a temporary lane closure is necessary, the contractor will do their best to schedule those closures outside of peak traffic times or at night. Businesses and residents will have access to driveways and sidewalks at all times and may experience an increase in noise levels due to trucks and equipment in the area.

The design and engineering plans for the Northpark Drive Overpass Project were completed earlier this year and went out for bid this summer. A visual of the design can be seen here. It took many months to go through the process of acquiring property for the right-of-way necessary to expand Northpark Drive. The Northpark Drive Overpass Project is expected to alleviate congestion, enhance accessibility, and increase safety in the Kingwood area by widening Northpark Drive from four to six lanes between I-69 and Russell Palmer Road, along with adding a grade separation at Texas State Loop 494 and the Union Pacific Railroad crossing. The 2015 Kingwood Area Mobility Study, commissioned by TIRZ 10, concluded this project is critical to ensuring public safety.

As a reminder, the next TIRZ Board meeting will be held on Thursday, August 10 at 8:00 AM at the Kingwood Community Center. Every TIRZ Board meeting is open to the public. Visit the LHRA website for more information on the Northpark Drive Overpass Project and view the 2023 Board of Directors Calendar.

Crenshaw Road Reconstruction Project Update

The Crenshaw Road Reconstruction Project has begun construction as of July 10, 2023, and our office is pleased to announce that this project is still on track and set to conclude by early August 2023, if weather permits. The purpose of this project is to preserve and prolong the life of the road base and provide for a smoother riding surface.

This project will mill and overlay the existing roadway from South Shaver to Allen Genoa, approximately 4,300 linear feet, (LF) including base and subgrade repair. Install 500 LF of new 6-ft wide sidewalk between the driveways of YES Prep School. The project also includes pavement markings, ditch regrading, and the reconstruction of 9 driveways.

For more information on the Crenshaw Road project, click here or access the Engage Houston website, or read our latest press release.

Dead & Dangerous Tree Removal Program Update

Earlier this year, Houston Urban Forestry started the first phase of the Dead and Dangerous Tree Removal Program in January and completed it in May. In total, 243 dead and dangerous trees were removed from Kingwood’s major thoroughfares during this phase. This includes 125 trees removed on Kingwood Drive, 31 trees along W Lake Houston Parkway, and 64 trees along Northpark Drive. The cost of the removal was $73,521.00 and paid for through Mayor Pro Tem Martin's Council District Service Funds. Mayor Pro Tem Martin is providing an additional $40,000 in Council District Service Funds for the second phase of dead and dangerous tree removal which will commence within the next two months.

Additionally, the District E office conducted a tour with Houston Urban Forestry in May to identify tree trimming needs on all the major thoroughfares. This is where either limbs were obstructing the view of traffic signs/signals or where tree branches are hanging lower than 14 feet. Houston Urban Forestry recently completed its evaluation of the scope of work and Mayor Pro Tem Martin is providing $38,000 from his Council District Service Funds to expedite the trimming needs which is expected to start in the next two to three weeks.

If there are specific locations where you see a dead/dangerous tree or tree branch posing an immediate risk please report those locations to 3-1-1 (713-837-0311). Once reported to 3-1-1, please follow up with Mayor Pro Tem Martin’s office via email to districte@houstontx.gov by providing your case number so they can help to ensure the issue is addressed. Please keep in mind this does not pertain to trees that are on private property.

HCFCD Flood Insurance

Harris County Flood Control District recommends that all Harris County residents become informed about their flood risk and have flood insurance no matter where they reside in Harris County. The devastating effects of flooding do not end when the stormwater recedes after a flood event. Flood insurance accelerates the rebuilding and replacement of personal property and fosters community resiliency as a whole. Flood insurance does take 30 days to become active, so keep that in mind as hurricane season nears.

Click here to learn more about why you should get flood insurance and learn about how to get it. Note that you cannot buy flood insurance directly from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). If you’re interested in purchasing flood insurance, your homeowners, renters, or business insurance agent may be able to help you. You can also contact the NFIP Help Center at 800-427-4661.

Construction Continues for Oak Meadow Park

Houston Parks Board and Houston Parks and Recreation Department are excited to share an update on Mayor Turner’s 50/50 Park Partners initiative and the park improvements slated for Oak Meadow Park.

Construction has commenced on elements that were identified by the community. The improvements at Oak Meadow Park will include replacing the playground, resurfacing the walking trail, adding benches, renovating the basketball court, improving the multi-purpose field and site drainage, adding a picnic pavilion, updating and adding site lighting, and enhancing the volleyball court. Construction is expected to be complete towards the end of 2023. For more information, please contact Houston Parks Board.

Oakmeadows Monthly Civics Meeting

On July 18, District E staff attended the Oak Meadows Civics Club meeting which is held on the third Tuesday of every month at the Iglesia Una Luz En Tu Camino Church. This meeting had special guest speakers including District E's very own South Sector Manager who provided updates on projects within their community such as the Oak Meadow Park which will be having their grand opening this Fall.

They also had a special presentation from Solid Waste Department's, Robert Nguyen who is a customer service representative. Nguyen's presentation included the do's and don'ts when it comes to recycling, explaining the different types of items you can recycle, and provided residents with resources that the Solid Waste Department has available such as the HTX Collects App.

To receive important updates from the Solid Waste Department, click here to download the app.

Mayor Pro Tem Martin Attends

Kingwood's Annual 4th of July Parade

Mayor Pro Tem Martin attended Kingwood's annual 4th of July Parade, a beloved tradition in the community, and a wonderful celebration of our nation's independence which brought together residents of all ages.

Mayor Pro Tem Martin had the opportunity to meet with local residents and businesses along the parade route and was impressed by the community's spirit and dedication to the City.

For more information on future organized events like this in Kingwood, please visit the Kingwood Civic Club Website to learn more.

Lake Houston Safety Plan #KnowYourZone

Do you know your zones? The Lake Houston Safety Plan provides Lake Houston residents and visiting recreational users with information preparing them to better identify their location on the lake and how to best report a lake incident to 9-1-1 dispatchers.

The "Know Your Zone" map was created by District E in collaboration with the Houston Fire Department, Houston Police Department, Houston Planning Department, Houston Office of Emergency Management, Houston Emergency Center, and the Houston Public Works Department. To date, signs have been installed at Deussen Park, East End Park, River Grove Park, Kings Harbor, W Lake Houston Parkway Bridge, and on the FM 1960 Bridge. Houston Public Works has been hampered by the weather but is still working to install signs that have been requested by community groups and private community boat dock owners.

To learn more about the Lake Houston Safety Plan visit the Know Your Zone website, here. There you can print your own maps, share with neighbors, post on social media, and #knowyourzone. To request a presentation for your group (HOA, Civic Club etc.) or receive resources directly, please email the District E Office at districte@houstontx.gov.

State of the Precinct Membership Luncheon

On July 20, 2023, District E staff attended the annual State of the Precinct Membership Luncheon featuring Precinct 2 County Commissioner Adrian Garcia.

The event had networking opportunities and served lunch, then Commissioner Garcia came out to speak on the exciting upcoming things going on in his precinct as well as some of the initiatives he is proud of such as the Community Revitalization Initiative, Revive2Thrive. This initiative focuses on Revitalizing Precinct 2 through investments in infrastructure and economic opportunity with the goal to make Precinct 2 the best place to live, work, and play for all.

This luncheon was held at the Sylvan Beach Pavillion in La Port Texas and was sponsored by the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce, Deer Park Chamber of Commerce, Pasadena Chamber of Commerce, and South Belt-Ellington Chamber of Commerce.

Report a Streetlight Outage

CenterPoint Energy maintains streetlights throughout District E and the City of Houston. If you notice a streetlight out in your area please click on the link below to report a streetlight outage.

You will be asked to provide:

a pole number (or nearby address) for the non-functioning lights you want to report
contact information (in case more information is needed to locate a streetlight)
an e-mail address (if you want feedback regarding your repair request)
the number of streetlights you would like to report

The system will guide you through the remaining steps. To repo rt a streetlight outage using the interactive map, click here.

Report general power outages by calling 713-207-2222 or toll-free 800-332-7143.

El Dorado Blvd FAQ Sheet

The El Dorado Boulevard Expansion Project has been in the works for nearly 4 years and is a partnered project by Harris County Precinct 2, and District E of Houston. This partnership identified and financed the new lanes and new bridge, reducing traffic and improving safety where drivers from west sped up as four lanes reduced to the two-lane bridge. The project was completed on October 6, 2022, and extensive public outreach and planning addressed community interests and met governmental requirements, leading to new plans for some elements.

Since our office has been receiving many calls and questions regarding this project, we worked together with Precinct 2 to create a FAQ sheet to address the community's frequent questions/concerns regarding this project. Click here to access the document.

Utilizing 3-1-1 to Report Issues

Residents may act as extra eyes and ears on the streets, and soon you'll be able to report a pothole, a malfunctioning traffic light, or a drainage problem while you're out and about. Houston 311 is in the process of launching a new smartphone app that makes reporting issues like these easier than ever. The app will use GPS to identify your location and also allow you to snap a photo to add to your service request. The new app will allow for reports to be automatically sent to the City’s 311 system and routed to city departments for resolutions.

You can still alert the City of Houston of issues by dialing 3-1-1 or 713-837-0311 of potential problems in your community. Houstonians can also access this helpful service via an e-mail to 311@HoustonTX.gov. A self Service Request (SR) form is available online at www.houston311.org. Once you've reported a problem please follow up with the District E office by emailing your case number and information on the issue to the District E office at districte@houstontx.gov to help make sure the problem is addressed in a timely manner.