As always, Precinct 3 crews will be working around the clock during any severe weather event. Whatever storm comes our way, Precinct 3 is ready. Read more...

Mosquitoes are making their comeback this season as the warmer weather and increased rainfall contribute to their population growth. As we move into the summertime, we will feel their presence increase day by day. This is why it is important for us all to remember that mosquito-borne diseases, like the West Nile virus, are still around and warrant the same precautionary measures we have taken in the past.

The one thing that all mosquito species need to reproduce is a standing body of water. Anything from a wheelbarrow to a bottle cap can be a suitable place for mosquitoes to lay their eggs. Many mosquito species do not fly very far from where they hatch, meaning that many of the mosquitoes you find in your backyard could be homegrown by you or your neighbor! The best thing you can do to protect your family is to get rid of any standing water you may find around the home. If you have water that cannot be eliminated or changed on a regular basis, be sure to use one of several larvicide products available on the market (check your local home improvement store). Products that use BTi as the active ingredient are often safe for use around animals, including fish and birds. Be sure to carefully read and follow the instructions for whatever product you choose.

The other crucial precaution you can take is to wear insect repellant every time you go outside, especially between dusk and dawn; the mosquitoes that transmit the West Nile virus in our area are most active during this time. There are many different kinds of insect repellants on the market so it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you and your family. Make sure the product you use has been registered with the EPA and that it is appropriate for the length of time you will be spending outside. In general, active ingredients with higher concentrations usually translate into longer-lasting protection. To ensure you are using your insect repellant safely and effectively, please read the label carefully and always follow the directions.

As always, our Mosquito Abatement Team is ready to assist anyone who has questions or concerns about mosquitoes. We are also available to conduct a survey of your property to help you identify mosquito breeding sites and to give advice on how to deal with these trouble spots. Please contact our office at 281-364-4203 for assistance.

Project Update: The Rayford Road-Birnham Woods Drive widening, intersection improvement and signalization project started at the end of October. D&W Contractors recently completed pavement work for the new lanes at the Rayford Road-Allegro Bend intersection and reopened it to traffic.

Scope of project: The project will widen Rayford Road to four lanes from approximately 40 feet east of Waterbend Cove to approximately 400 feet east of Birnham Woods Drive. A new concrete roadway will be constructed on the south side of the existing Rayford Road lanes to create the two new eastbound lanes. The existing road will be for the two westbound lanes along that stretch. Left-turn lanes also will be added for eastbound and westbound traffic at most of the intersections.

Contract length: 360 calendar days

Project Update: WadeCon LLC started the Kuykendahl Road widening project in January. In addition, WadeCon continues dirt prepaataion work along the 1.5-mile-long project for stabilizer and then concrete pavement.

Scope of project: The project will widen Kuykendahl Road from a two-lane half boulevard to a four-lane full boulevard from Lake Woodlands Drive to Research Forest Drive.

Contract: 365 calendar days