Mayor Pro Tem Martin's July 2023 Newsletter

Monthly Newsletter

June 30, 2023 Issue 126

Dear residents,

As we gear up to celebrate Independence Day, it's important to prioritize safety. Although fireworks and celebrations go together, they can be dangerous when used improperly. As a reminder, the use of fireworks is illegal in the City and parts of the County . For those spending their Independence Day weekend on the water, remember, it is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence (BUI), life jackets should be worn by everyone on the water, and please be mindful and pay attention to your surroundings such as stumps, boaters, and kayakers.

This is the perfect time to make sure Lake Houston residents and visitors are aware of the Lake Houston Safety Plan. This plan 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. The Lake Houston Safety Plan provides both Lake Houston residents and visiting recreational users with information that will prepare them to better identify their location on the lake and how to best report a lake incident to 9-1-1 dispatchers. #KnowYourZone in the event of an emergency. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact HPD Lake Patrol at 832-394-9854.

Please keep in mind we are experiencing prolonged extreme heat advisories and it is important to familiarize yourself with the symptoms for heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion occurs when your body overheats due to exposure to high temperatures and humidity. Symptoms can include nausea, dizziness, headache, weakness, and confusion. To prevent heat exhaustion, it's essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, wear lightweight and light-colored clothing, and avoid being outdoors during the hottest part of the day. If you start to experience symptoms of heat exhaustion, move to a cooler location, rest, and drink plenty of fluids. Remember, heat exhaustion can be dangerous and even life-threatening, so make sure to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and those around you.

I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable 4^th of July weekend. The District E office will be closed Tuesday, July 4^th in observance of the Independence Day holiday.

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

TxDOT Loop 494 Expansion Project Update

Due to delays with the railroad, gas lines, impacts to waterlines, and a joint detention pond, TxDOT has experienced numerous delays with the Loop 494 Expansion Project. The project is currently estimated to be completed in September 2023.

The last major piece to this project is the Kingwood Drive & Loop 494 intersection improvements. TxDOT’s contractor is expected to begin work on the intersection of Kingwood Drive & Loop 494 starting on Wednesday, July 5. The work is expected to be complete by Friday, September 1, weather permitting. The work on the intersection improvements will require lane closures but the contractor will maintain at least one lane of traffic in both directions for the duration of the work. The Loop 494 Expansion Project is a multijurisdictional project involving Montgomery County and the Texas Department of Transportation.

More information on the project can be found by reading the Public Meeting Summary that occurred on March 29, 2017, and the Public Hearing Summary that occurred on November 9, 2010. For more information, contact Bambi Hall at 713-802-5000. Follow the TxDOT Houston District on Twitter @TxDOTHouston.

Water Pressure Issues in Kingwood

In recent months, Kingwood residents have occasionally experienced low water pressure issues. The occasional low water pressure issues have been the result of Houston Water making repairs to water facilities in Kingwood.

The condition in which Inframark returned the water and wastewater facilities back over to the City of Houston left Houston Water with a lot of maintenance work needed to ensure the system runs optimally. Houston Water is doing its best to minimize the impacts through careful coordination and planning of repairs but there are still chances a repair may not go according to plan perfectly.

Please always report any water issues to 311 as that provides the necessary information to Houston Water for them to understand the size and scope of the issue as that usually informs their first steps to resolving any water issues. Once reported to 311, please follow up with the District E Office and provide your case number so the office can assist in getting the issue resolved in a timely manner.

Northpark Drive Overpass Project Update

The District E Office would like to make Kingwood residents aware that construction will be starting on the Northpark Drive Overpass Project on Monday, July 10, weather permitting. The Lake Houston Redevelopment Authority (LHRA)/ Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone 10 Board awarded the contract to Harper Brothers Construction for construction during their December Board meeting.

In the coming weeks, residents can expect to see the contractor moving equipment, supplies, materials, and traffic control items in preparation for construction. 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 lane closures at times. Two lanes, both ways will be maintained during peak travel times. 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. For a detailed traffic plan during construction, residents can view the plans here (pages 43-163).

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.

Please contact the District E office by phone at (832) 393-3008 or by email at districte@houstontx.gov with any questions or comments.

Capital Improvements Plan for Fiscal Year 2024

The City of Houston's 2023 fiscal year ended in June, which means City Council has voted on the 2024-2028 Capital improvement plan (CIP). CIP is a forward-looking document outlining the city of Houston’s infrastructure improvement strategy. This plan organizes projects by priority, project capability, and timing of constraints and identifies funding sources for all anticipated projects. This organization creates a realistic plan to address the current and expected infrastructure needs of Houston that are subject to resource constraints. The fiscal year 2024-2028 CIP is an estimated $11.5 billion from all funding sources. Click here to access the CIP 2024-2028 executive summary to learn more.

Some of the CIP projects that are currently going on in District E include the Arlington Heights Subproject 1, the Freeway Manor Park upgrades, and the Lake Houston Gates.

Happy Retirement to Commander Larry Baimbridge

The District E Office would like to extend our warmest congratulations to Commander Larry Baimbridge on his well-deserved retirement after 31 years of service with the Houston Police Department. Throughout his career, Commander Baimbridge has been an invaluable asset to the City of Houston, dedicating himself to keeping our streets safe and secure.

His commitment to public service has not gone unnoticed, and we are grateful for his unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of our community. Kingwood will miss him dearly but wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement. Thank you, Commander Baimbridge!

Freeway Manor Park Construction Update

Freeway Manor Park construction began back in January of this year and is on track to conclude by the end of Summer 2023. The park is still closed for construction, and demolition has not yet started but will begin soon according to the Houston Parks Board.

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

Construction activities will occur Monday through Friday, with occasional Saturdays, between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Earlier starts might be required for any concrete pouring in case of high temperatures.

Residents should be mindful of the active construction site and not enter areas surrounded by orange construction fencing.

City Council has approved two agreements between the City of Houston and Houston Parks Board that underscored the commitment to this public/private partnership by appropriating almost $6.2 million from the City of Houston’s Parks and Recreation Dedication Fund and General Fund for this work to begin on the first 11 parks of the 50/50 Park Partners initiative.

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.

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.

Partnership Lake Houston Hosts

State of the Lake Houston Area Luncheon

Mayor Pro Tem Martin had the opportunity to share some updates at Partnership Lake Houston's annual State of the State & Lake Houston Area Luncheon, on Tuesday, June 20. The luncheon features state officials and appointed leaders addressing the Lake Houston Area business community. Discussions included key outcomes of the last legislative session and economic and demographic trends that will impact our state moving forward.

Larry McManus from the Governor's Office of Economic Development provided updates on the steps the State of Texas has taken to remain one of the top states in the country to do business in. Mayor Pro Tem Martin provided updates on critical funding acquired during the legislative session and the Northpark Drive Overpass Project. Thank you to Partnership Lake Houston for hosting this informative luncheon every year!

Willow Creek Way Panel Replacement Project Completed

The District E office is pleased to announce that the Willow Creek Way Panel Replacement Project has been successfully completed on June 5, 2023. The project was initiated to replace the aging and worn-out panels on Willow Creek Way, which had become a safety hazard for pedestrians and motorists alike.

The new panels installed are not only sturdy and reliable but also aesthetically pleasing, adding value to the surrounding areas. The project was completed on time, within budget, and with minimal disruption to the local community.

The District E Office would like to thank the project team and contractors for their hard work and dedication. Their tireless efforts have resulted in a safer and more beautiful community for all.

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 will begin in the next several weeks 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.

Crenshaw Road Reconstruction Project Update

The long-awaited Crenshaw Road Reconstruction Project has started preparing for construction on June 30, 2023, and should conclude by the end of July, 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 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.

Kids Space Day at Houston Space Center

On June 2, Mayor Pro Tem Martin gifted 20 5th grade students with a special tour of the NASA Space Center. These 5th graders graduated from SHSU Charter School-Cypress Trails Campus in May and were gifted this tour to congratulate them as they move on to do great things.

This tour was made possible by the efforts of District E staff, Harris County Precinct 3 Commissioner Ramsey's office who provided transportation, and the Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs at NASA Johnson Space Center who helped organize the tour.

Mayor Pro Tem would also like to give a huge shoutout to Raising Canes Chicken Fingers on Bay Area Blvd for graciously donating meals for the kids and staff that day.

Mayor Pro Tem Martin and Staff Attended Houston's Juneteenth Parade

On Saturday, June 17, Mayor Pro Tem Dave Martin and his staff attended Mayor Sylvester Turner's Annual Acre's Home Juneteenth Parade. This annual parade was organized to commemorate and embrace Juneteenth's rich history and cultural significance.

In celebration of the Juneteenth holiday, a parade was held through the Acre's Home neighborhood. Relatives of late State Rep. Al Edwards, known as "Mr. Juneteenth" after successfully passing legislation making June 19 a state holiday, will be among the special guests. Mayor Pro Tem Martin was delighted to be escorted by Lake Patrol and accompanied by his Chief of Staff Jessica Beemer, and Executive Assistant Demari Perez.

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.

5th Grade Students Thank Mayor Pro Tem Martin

at City Council Public Session

On June 13, Mayor Pro Tem Martin was surprised at Public Session with a special thank you speech given by two 5th grade students who were gifted a tour of the Houston Space Center on June 2, in honor of their graduation from SHSU Charter School-Cypress Trails Campus.

Their class had been together since kindergarten and are now going to be embarking on new adventures as they continue on to new schools in the Fall. Mayor Pro Tem Martin wanted to recognize these students and congratulate them on their graduation from their school by gifting them with a special tour of the Houston Space Center.

The two young ladies who thanked Mayor Pro Tem Martin during Public Session were Aubrey Burch and Gracelynn Thompson who also received a proclamation from the District E office this day.

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.

BAHEP 88th Legislative Update Meeting

District E staff attended the 88th Legislative Session Update Meeting hosted by Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership on June 15. The event was held at South Shore Harbour Resort and Conference Center and the meeting had a panel of special guest speakers including Representative Greg Bonnen, Rep. Ed Thompson, Rep. Mary Ann Perez, Rep. Dennis Paul, and Rep Briscoe Cain.

The purpose of this event was to give these State Representatives a chance to reflect and provide comment on the 88th Legislative Session which just recently ended. The panel was led by Dr. Brenda Hellyer, Chancellor of San Jacinto Community College, and the event concluded by opening up the panel to questions from the audience.

For more information on the State legislators, please visit www.house.state.tx.us.

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.