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KATY EDITION
VOLUME 10, ISSUE 7 MARCH 23 APRIL 19, 2022
ONLINE AT
REIMAGINING A LANDMARK
IMPACTS
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TO DO LIST
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Bluestem community to break ground
FUNTASTICK LABS SUMMER CAMPS CAMP GUIDE 2022 DEVELOPMENT
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After sitting empty since 1996, the J.V. Cardi & Sons Rice Dryer is being reimagined as a community hub featuring local restaurants, vendors and a beer garden. (Laura Aebi/Community Impact Newspaper)
Katy’s historic J.V. Cardi & Sons Rice Dryer begins next chapter with new owner BY LAURA AEBI
“This is a historic building,” Nurcahya said. “I don’t know how, but we somehow got a hold of it—and now we’re going to [preserve it] as much as possible. We’re not going to try to change it. We’re going to work around it and respect it.” When complete in 2023, the 3-acre property will include a Katy history museum backed by the Katy Heritage Society, a food hall featuring local restaurants, a beer garden, green space with a playground, a vending area for small-business owners to sell their products and coworking space. Katy Mayor Bill Hastings said the rice dryers have been a symbol of Katy for a long time, and he supports the idea of preserving them. “I have always hoped somebody would buy those rice dry- ers and turn them into something,” Hastings said. “I can CONTINUED ON 36
After being unmaintained for 26 years, the J.V. Cardi &Sons Rice Dryer—one of three rice dryers in Katy city limits located on Hwy. 90—is about to see a second life. In late 2020, developer Hadi “Andrew” Nurcahya bought the property from an Austin-based developer. Nurcahya said he plans to turn the site into a community-centric gathering space that aims to encourage local economic growth in align- ment with historical preservation. While numerous developers have tried to invest in the prop- erty, none of those projects moved forward. However, Nurca- hya, a Katy-area resident and part-time real estate developer, became the latest investor of the property in November 2020— and local o cials said they are hopeful the project is in the right hands this time.
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PEARL AND VINE
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KATY EDITION • MARCH 2022
Marriage Resources
Personal Growth
Parenting Resources
LINKS
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THIS ISSUE
ABOUT US
Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched the rst edition of Community Impact Newspaper in 2005 with three full-time employees covering Round Rock and P ugerville, Texas. We have expanded our operations to include hundreds of employees, our own printing operation and over 30 hyperlocal editions across three states. Our circulation is over 2 million residential mailboxes, and it grows each month with new residents and developments.
HIGHLIGHTS FROMTHISMONTH
FROMAMY: In our March issue, we’ve included our Camp Guide (see Page 28) for parents planning their children’s summer with camps dedicated to technology, sports and more. We also have the To-Do List (see Page 9) for March, which features a food festival and a fundraiser. Amy Martinez, GENERALMANAGER
Community Impact Newspaper teams include general managers, editors, reporters, graphic designers, sales account executives and sales support, all immersed and invested in the communities they serve. Our mission is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our core values are Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity.
FROMLAURA: I have been following the project discussed in our front-page story for more than a year. I wanted to wait until we could give our readers all of the details, which include a beer garden, a food hall, coworking spaces and vendor opportunities. We dive into the project and what the property owner of the J.V. Cardi Rice Dryer is doing to preserve a piece of Katy history. Laura Aebi, EDITOR
Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other.
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BUSINESS &DINING Local business development news that a ects you
TRANSPORTATION &DEVELOPMENT Regular updates on area projects to keep you in the know
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GRAPHIC DESIGNER La'Toya Smith ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Tracy Drewa METRO LEADERSHIP PUBLISHER Jason Culpepper ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Kristina Shackelford MANAGING EDITOR Kelly Scha er ART PRODUCTIONMANAGER Kaitlin Schmidt CORPORATE LEADERSHIP GROUP PUBLISHER Traci Rodriguez EXECUTIVE EDITOR Joe Warner CREATIVE DIRECTOR Derek Sullivan SALES &MARKETING DIRECTOR Tess Coverman CONTACT US
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KATY EDITION • MARCH 2022
IMPACTS
Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding
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4 Texana Cafe held its grand opening March 10 at 7440 FM 359 S., Fulshear. The business specializes in serving sand- wiches and salads, including roast beef, turkey, chicken salad and grilled cheese sandwiches as well as house salad and steak salad. Texana Cafe also works to employ individuals with disabilities, such as autism. 346-707-1684. www.texanacafe.com 5 Iq Viet My is a professional tutoring center that opened in mid-March in Katy for learners in pre-K through 12th grade. Located at 870 S. Mason Road, Ste. 126, Katy, Iq Viet My offers an after-school program led by experienced and dedi- cated teachers who will tutor students in math, reading, writing and science. The program makes an effort to deepen con- nections within the community and meet the unique needs of each client. 832-387-0762. www.iqvietmy.com COMING SOON 6 A new Culver’s is expected to open in the Fulshear area. The company was unable to provide an opening date for the burger franchise, but construction is expected to finish at the end of May, according to permit documents. It will be located on the northeast corner of FM 1093 and Flewellen Way in Fulshear. The restaurant specializes in butter burgers and frozen custards. www.culvers.com 7 WowWow Hawaiian Lemonade is coming to Katy Mills, 25220 Kingsland Blvd., Ste. 300, Katy, this summer, and it is bringing handcrafted lemonades; superfood smoothies; tropically inspired
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NOWOPEN 1 Planet Fitness opened its second location in Katy at 1705 N. Fry Road, Katy, on March 7. The newest club has cardio machines, strength equipment, 30-minute express circuits, flat-screen televisions, locker rooms and showers. The Black Card Spa also offers access to hybrid tanning beds, hydromassage beds and massage chairs. The gym is open and staffed 24/7. 281-712-6067. www.planetfitness.com
2 Starting Strength opened a new location at 1230 N. Mason Road, Ste. 550, Katy, on Jan. 17. Led by coach Josh Wells, Starting Strength’s goal is to develop strong bodies—not just strong parts. Reps, sets, frequency and exercise selec- tion are individualized for each person but vary based on a variety of factors, including age, fitness level and health status. 713-804-6173. www.katy.startingstrengthgyms.com 3 Mister Car Wash opened its newest
location at 1726 Spring Green Blvd., Katy, with the grand opening celebra- tion Feb. 19-20. Mister aims to provide economically responsible car washes with its water filtration and reclamation systems. Products are made in house and cater to the insects, pollen, air quality and other elements specific to the Katy area, according to a statement from the company. 281-742-9299. www.mistercarwash.com/location/ spring-green
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COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
COMPILED BY COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER STAFF
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Culver's
WowWow Hawaiian Lemonade
COURTESY CULVER'S
COURTESY WOW WOW HAWAIIAN LEMONADE
coffees and teas; acai bowls; and healthy, casual fare “in the spirit of Aloha.” Wow Wow began as a lemonade stand at farm- ers and night markets around the island of Oahu, Hawaii, in 2012. Since then, it has expanded its menu and extended business to the mainland and internation- ally, but its core values are still to spread love and fellowship by supporting the local community and events. www.wowwowhawaiianlemonade.com 8 Dogtopia , a dog day care center, will open a location at 6434 FM 1463, Ful- shear, in November. This facility boasts 5,530 square feet of play area for dogs of all sizes, breeds and temperaments. The facility will offer training, long-term and overnight boarding, and spa services. Webcams will operate in every playroom for dog parents’ security and comfort. www.dogtopia.com 9 Detail Garage Katy ’s grand opening will be March 26 at 829 S. Mason Road, Ste. 260, Katy. Detail Garage is part of a national chain with other locations in Rosenberg, Houston and Spring. Detail Garage, founded in California, specializes in selling car care products. Customers can ask questions and get recommendations about car care and participate in monthly training classes. www.detailgarage.com 10 Fit20 USA will bring its franchise to Katy sometime this spring. The franchise will be located at 3750 Mason Road, Ste. 600, Katy, according to the com- pany’s marketing manager. The location will be owned by Katy residents Mark and Tammy Fuselier. The exercise company features a weekly, 20-minute workout with a personal trainer that is made up of slow-motion resistance training.
www.fit20usa.com 11 Aina Poke will open sometime this year in Brazos Town Center in Rosenberg. Located at the intersection of Hwy. 59 and FM 762, the restaurant leased 1,820 square feet of retail space. The Hawaiian restau- rant sells poke, a dish that contains rice, protein, sauce and vegetables combined in a bowl. There is another restaurant in Richmond. www.ainapoke.kwickmenu.com RELOCATIONS 12 24/7 Plumbing Co. LP relocated its office from 5316 Third St., Katy, to 1107 Katyland Drive, Katy, in the middle of March. Trent Cooke opened the plumb- ing company in 2004, and the staff has a combined 250 years of experience in the plumbing industry. The company offers various services, including drain cleaning, water leak repair and water heater replace- ment. 281-391-2001. www.katy-plumber.com EXPANSIONS 13 Red Coach , a luxury motor coach company, has expanded its Texas routes to include a stop in Katy in front of the Buc-ee’s at 27700 Katy Freeway, Katy. The Florida-based transportation enter- prise added this stop Feb. 11 because of the area’s growing market, according to the company. It aims to provide high-end but affordable and safe travel to Katy res- idents by offering complimentary Wi-Fi, power outlets, on-board entertainment, complimentary snacks and water, ride monitoring through cameras and GPS, and no baggage fees. 877-733-0724. www.redcoachusa.com
Twisted Grilled Cheese opened a new Katy location in March.
COURTESY TWISTED GRILLED CHEESE
FEATURED IMPACT NOWOPEN Twisted Grilled Cheese opened its second brick-and-mortar location March 12 at 24811 Katy Freeway, Katy. The eatery started out as a eet of food trucks in 2019 and grew in popularity by serving an elevated version of a staple comfort food. Less than a year later, Houston native and founder Ahmad Fobbs was able to open TGC’s rst storefront restaurant in the Rice Military neighborhood in November 2020, according to the restaurant’s website. This move allowed for new menu items that included the Tarragon Lobster, Tru e Mushroom and Avocado BLT+E sandwiches, which are on the menu in Katy as well. The restaurant also has vegetarian options, such as the spinach and artichoke grilled cheese, made with mozzarella, provolone and gruyere. Additionally, the restaurant o ers side dishes such as brisket fries, Parmesan wa e fries, mac and cheese balls, ANNIVERSARIES Neli’s Yard Card Celebrations marked its one-year anniversary in January. Own- er Chanel “Neli” Cunningham said she started the business, which specializes in personalized yard displays for homes or businesses, with a display she did for a
and tomato basil soup to accompany the grilled cheese. Desserts, such as cheesecake doughnut holes, twisted Cinnabon, double chocolate chip cookie, milkshakes and TGC’s signature limeade, are also on the menu. A mural inside the storefront illustrates the Katy water tower and rice driers—two city landmarks—against the backdrop of the sunset with a Twisted Grilled Cheese spaceship ying over a rooftop. 281-665-8562. www.twistedgrilledcheese.com
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friend’s birthday. Neli’s Yard Card Cele- brations serves northwest Harris Coun- ty communities, including Katy, Spring, Klein, Cypress and Jersey Village. However, Cunningham noted services may be provided outside of the areas for a mileage fee. 832-270-9943. www.nelisyardcardcelebrations.com
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©2017 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Better Homes and Gardens ® is a registered trademark of Meredith Corporation licensed to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Franchise is Independently Owned and Operated. If your property is currently listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers.
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KATY EDITION • MARCH 2022
Pet City Houston-locally owned and operated for over 36 yrs. We are known as Houston’s number-one-rated pet store. We carry everything from fish, marine fish, reptiles, exotics, puppies, birds, hedgehogs, bunnies, ferrets, and so much more. If you’re looking for unique supplies for your pets then Pet City Houston is the store for you.
Pet City Houston 230 Bammel Westfield Rd, Houston, TX 77090 (281) 587-2336 | www.petcityhouston.com
832-726-3505 www.firedupassemblers.com firedupassemblers
We assemble trampolines, play sets, portable basketball goals, gazebos, furniture, exercise equipment and so much more
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COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
TO DO LIST
March & April events
COMPILED BY ASIA ARMOUR
The festival will highlight the diversity of Katy’s culinary scene.
COURTESY PHAT EATERY MALAYSIAN STREET FOOD
MARCH 25
GET FITWITHMIXEDMARTIAL ARTS HERITAGE SQUARE AT LACENTERRA
APRIL 16
BUY FRESH, BUY LOCAL HISTORIC DOWNTOWN KATY
FEATUREDEVENT MARCH26: EATLOCALFOOD Kingsland Baptist Church is hosting the rst International Festival: Taste of the Nations to showcase the area’s diversity. Local restaurants will o er international cuisine at this family event—which includes heritage performances, a market and kid’s activities. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Kingsland Baptist Church
Fit Fridays take place every fourth Friday in the Heritage Square at LaCenterra. FS Mixed Martial Arts & Fitness will lead a 45-minute session in March. Also included are tness vendor booths, mimosas at Bar Louie, gift bags and discounts from Kendra Scott. 9-10 a.m. Free. LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch, 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Katy. 281-395-5533. www.lacenterra.com
Katy Market Day is held every third Saturday of the month, hosted by Limited Edition Art & Antiques. The market will feature more than 100 vendors, live music, food trucks and a beer garden. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Historic Downtown Katy, intersection of Second Street and Avenue B, Katy. 281-391-1993. www.katymarketday.com
COURTESY LA CENTERRA
COURTESY KATY MARKET DAYS
26 GET A TASTE OF LOCAL RESTAURANTS Katy Taste Fest returns after a two-year hiatus and is o ering foodies the chance to sample bites from over 20 local restaurants. The festival features a VIP lounge, cooking demos, beer and wine, a kids zone, live entertainment and a silent auction. Attendees can also reserve private cabanas that include eight VIP tickets and concierge service. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $50-$85. Typhoon Texas Waterpark, 555 Katy Fort Bend Road, Katy. www.katytastefest.com
26 THROUGH 27 LEARN FROMHOME IMPROVEMENT EXPERTS At this event, attendees can discuss landscaping questions with master gardeners, listen to home improvement seminars, enter into a ra e and shop local vendors. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (March 26), 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (March 27). Free (age 12 and under), $7 (age 13 and up). Katy ISD Agriculture Center, 5825 Katy Hockley Cut O Road, Katy. 281-392-2178. www.katyhomeandgardenshow.com
MARCH 24 CONNECTWITH LOCAL BUSINESSES The Fulshear-Katy Area Chamber of Commerce is presenting a “Let’s Make A Deal”-themed networking event. Enjoy cocktails, appetizers and dinner while connecting with local Fulshear- and Katy- area businesses. 5:30-8 p.m. $40. Adriatic Cafe, 27240 Katy Freeway, Katy. 832-600-3221. www.fulshearkaty.com
20555 Kingsland Blvd., Katy www.kingslandinternational festival.com
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Find more or submit Katy events at communityimpact.com/event-calendar. Event organizers can submit local events online to be considered for the print edition. Submitting details for consideration does not guarantee publication.
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KATY EDITION • MARCH 2022
Coming to Katy!
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COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
TRANSPORTATIONUPDATES
COMPILED BY ASIA ARMOUR & SHAWN ARRAJJ
Texas Supreme Court begins hearing high-speed rail eminent domain case as bill led in Congress
UPCOMING PROJECTS
The Texas Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the rehearing of a petition against the construction of a high-speed rail line Jan. 11. The case centers on a 236-mile high-speed rail line between Houston and Dallas being planned by the company Texas Central. Filed by landowner JimMiles in 2016, the lawsuit argues Texas Central does not qualify as a railroad company under state law and therefore cannot use eminent domain to acquire land needed to construct the line. The Supreme Court initially declined to hear the case in June after an appeals court ruled Texas Central could be de ned as a railroad company. Miles petitioned for a rehearing, and the court reversed course Oct. 15 to grant a rehearing. Attorney Je rey Levinger of Dallas-based Levinger PC, represent- ing Miles, focused his arguments on whether Texas Central needed to be operating railroads to be considered a railroad company. Levinger also noted Texas Central had not applied for a permit from the Surface Trans- portation Board, a federal regulatory agency. The STB rejected a Texas Central petition for an exemption from construction approval require- ments in July 2020. Levinger argued construction approval would require the company to disclose its nances. Texas Central declined to comment on its available funds or whether it would receive federal funds from the recently passed bipartisan infrastruc- ture deal. However Marie Yeates of
Legislative U P D A T E S
KATY FLEWELLEN RD.
A new bill led in the U.S. Congress could thwart Texas Central’s eorts to build high-speed rail in Texas.
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Pin Oak Road turn lane Fort Bend County opened bids in February to start the Pin Oak Road project. The county is looking for ways to increase tra c ow, so it is implementing a southbound dedicated right-turn lane onto Katy Flewellen Road, said Ike Akinwande, assistant county engineer for Fort Bend County. Timeline: May-Summer 2022 Cost: $290,000 Funding source: 2017 Fort Bend Coun- ty mobility bond
House Resolution 6365
What it does: bars construction from starting on a high-speed rail project until the operator has acquired all land needed
Status: referred to the subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials on Jan. 11
SOURCE: U.S CONGRESS COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
PRAIRIE PKWY.
Vinson and Elkins LLC, representing the railroad, said the company had received federal funds as part of her argument that Texas Central is “not a sham.” “The question is whether we’re going to allow [landowners who do not allow property surveys] to pre- vent Texas from getting the bene t of this train,” Yeates said. Newbill led U.S. Reps. Jake Ellzey, R Waxa- hachie, and Kevin Brady, R The Woodlands, on Jan. 10 led a bill in the U.S. Congress requiring high- speed rail projects to acquire all land necessary to construct the line before beginning construction. The bill directs the STB to reject construction authorization for
high-speed rail projects longer than 10 miles that have not acquired all necessary land. In a press release, Brady said the bill would protect the rights of land- owners along planned railroads. “Many questions remain about Texas Central’s plans to build and nance this controversial high-speed rail project, and I support any nec- essary reforms that will protect the rights of landowners whose farms, ranches, and homes sit along their proposed route,” Brady said. Texas Central declined to comment on the bill. “They’ve got serious nancial issues demonstrating where they’re going to get the $18 [billion]-$30 billion needed to nish this project,” Levinger said.
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ALL INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED AS OF MARCH 4. NEWS OR QUESTIONS ABOUT THESE OR OTHER LOCAL TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS? EMAIL US AT KTYNEWS COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM. Transit Authority of Harris County in an amount up to $823,777 for the Prairie Parkway extension project, which extends Prairie Parkway to Boardwalk Drive from Kingsland Boulevard. Timeline: May-December Cost: $823,777 Funding source: Katy Development Authority Prairie Parkway extension On Feb. 28, Katy City Council autho- rized the Katy Development Authority to use funds from the Metropolitan
Falcon Landing 9722 Gaston Road, Ste. 190 Katy, TX 77494
Cinco Ranch 10705 Spring Green Blvd, Ste. 600 Katy, TX 77494
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Kingsland 21700 Kingsland Blvd, Ste. 104 Katy, TX 77450
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KATY EDITION • MARCH 2022
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COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
DEVELOPMENT UPDATES
Developments underway in the Katy area
COMPILED BY LAURA AEBI & ASIA ARMOUR
CROSS CREEK RANCH Creek Rush is the newest and nal neighborhood for Cross Creek Ranch, completing this master-planned community by ful lling its last 300 acres. Once nished, Creek Rush will accommodate up to 600 homes, according to a press release from Johnson Development Corp., the Houston-based residential and commercial land development company that built Cross Creek Ranch. Creek Rush will contain a range of living spaces from townhomes to 80-foot homesites with models from builders such as Newmark Homes, Lennar, Partners in Building, Chesmar Homes, Highland Homes, Tri Pointe Homes and Perry Homes, according to the release. Eight homebuilders o er new homes priced from the $280,000s to more than $1 million in Cross Creek Ranch. Amenities for this western-most area of Cross Creek Ranch are in their nal stages and include pools, a playground, open green space and a 4.1-acre recreation complex. “Every feature is being thoughtfully designed to engage residents,” said Rob Bamford, the general manager of Cross Creek Ranch, in the release. “This complex will be a wonderful complement to what residents already enjoy in the community.” Children in this community will attend Lamar CISD. Approximately 15 acres of land have been sold to the district to plot a new elementary school. In addition, 27 acres along Texas Heritage Parkway and Fulshear Bend Drive have been designated for commercial businesses. Fourteen of those acres have already been sold.
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BLUESTEM A new residential community is headed to Waller County, according to a Jan. 15 press release from The Signorelli Co., a Texas-based real estate developer. Bluestem, a 365-acre development coming to Brookshire, will feature over 1,300 single-family homes and 64 acres of green space. According to The Signorelli Co., the development is minutes from Katy at the southeast corner of Wilson and Adams Flat roads. “Waller County is rapidly growing, quickly becoming a major destination to live, work and play for families of all sizes,” said Je Dewese, senior vice president of land for The Signorelli Co., in the release. Children in the community will attend Royal ISD. “Royal ISD is thrilled about the growth The Signorelli Co. will be bringing to the area with Bluestem,” RISD Superintendent Rick Kershner said in the release. Space: 365 acres Timeline: second quarter of 2022-TBD
Cross Creek Ranch in Fulshear is lling the last 300 acres of its property—a section dubbed Creek Rush.
COURTESY CROSS CREEK RANCH
CROSS CREEK BEND LN.
Space: 3,200 acres Timeline: 2006-TBD
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KATY EDITION • MARCH 2022
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Homes within Bridgeland are constructed and sold by builders not affiliated with The Howard Hughes Corporation (HHC) or any of its affiliates, companies or partnerships. Neither HHC nor any of its affiliated companies or partnerships guarantees or warrants the obligations of, or construction by, such builders. Prices and specifications subject to change.
14
COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
ENVIRONMENT
Tunnel back in consideration as study of Bu aloBayou extended
290
GREENS BAYOU
45
99 TOLL
59
6
A
529
SAN JACINTO BAY
Addicks Reservoir
BY SHAWN ARRAJJ
Bu alo Bayou
reconsidered, expressing concerns over how widening the bayou would be damaging to wildlife and the bayou’s natural features. As president of the Bu alo Bayou Partnership, Anne Olson has been following the work closely. She said she is glad to hear the tunnel appears to be getting a closer evaluation, though she acknowledged it would come with a higher price tag. “We’re rather optimistic because it seems like they really listened and have gone back out and come back with this idea of the tunnels,” Olson said. “It appears they are taking it rather seriously.” Before endorsing the tunnel completely, Olson said there are questions that need to be answered, such as where the outfall would be. Bu alo Bayou Partnership is a part of Houston Stronger, a broader coalition of civic groups, business associations and residents formed after Hurricane Harvey to ght for ood mitigation in Houston. Houston Stronger’s recommen- dations include building a 40-foot ood tunnel from the Addicks and Barker reservoirs to the Houston Ship Channel, excavating the reservoirs to add more storage and constructing more storage in the upper Addicks Reservoir to expand the prairie’s natural ability to absorb, slow down and store ood waters. In a September letter to the Army Corps, U.S. reps. Lizzie Fletcher and Troy Nehls also pushed for o cials studying Bu alo Bayou to take a
90
610
The Army Corps of Engineers Galveston District announced in December a schedule extension and funding boost for an ongoing Bu alo Bayou ood study. The announcement came just over a year after the Corps released its interim report to the public, garner- ing a wave of feedback. The schedule extension will allow for the “further study of alternatives, particularly development of a tunnel alternative for consideration in the study,” Corps o cials said in a statement. “We are very committed to this important, monumental project and we have heard the public’s feedback,” Galveston District Commander Col. Tim Vail said in a statement. The study looks into ways to improve the Katy area’s Addicks and Barker reservoirs while also identifying measures to address ooding along Bu alo Bayou and its tributaries. The interim report, released in October 2020, considered nine approaches, but its cost-bene t analysis favored three—constructing a reservoir in the Cypress Creek watershed, deepening and widening Bu alo Bayou, and acquiring more properties around the Barker and Addicks reservoirs. The interim report pushed away from an underground tunnel as a possible measure. After its release, groups including the Bu alo Bayou Partnership and Save Bu alo Bayou called for the tunnel to be
10
Barker Reservoir
Back to the drawing board
288
MAP NOT TO SCALE N
The Army Corps of Engineers is revisiting plans for how to mitigate ooding along the Addicks and Barker reservoirs and along Bu alo Bayou.
May 2019: Army Corps announces plans to study ood mitigation options for Bu alo Bayou and tributaries.
November 2020: A public comment period brings a wave of negative feedback about the proposed plans.
2020
2021
December 2021: The Army Corps announces it will revisit plans, including the tunnel, and extend the timeline of the study.
October 2020: An interim report is released. Top considerations include deepening and widening the bayou, with an underground tunnel getting less consideration.
December 2023: A nal study will be released.
2022
2023
Fall 2022: A new interim report will be released.
SOURCE: ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
closer look at tunnels. “Our community has shown overwhelming support for the study of underground tunnels as a way to alleviate the potential for ooding around the Addicks and Barker reser- voirs along Bu alo Bayou,” Fletcher said in a Jan. 19 statement. “I am glad the Army Corps of Engineers worked with our o ce and approved additional funds ... which will enable the Corps to continue studying underground tunnels as a potential
water conveyance solution.” The Army Corps’ study extension was funded by an additional $1.8 million in federal funds from the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works, bringing the total federal cost to $7.8 million, according to the Army Corps statement. Another $3.4 million in local funds will come from Harris County precincts 3 and 4. A draft report will be released this fall, according to the Army Corps. The study will be nished in late 2023.
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15
KATY EDITION • MARCH 2022
Lasts all month
Our month-long celebration of what’s new at Elyson continues. Stop by anytime to experience 145 acres of great-outdoors-goodness at our brand new amenity, Elyson Commons. (Why not pack a picnic lunch?) Then pop in to tour any of our 18 model homes , including four new ones
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in the Chesmar Town Square collection. Visit Elyson.com/BigSpringThing
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SUMMER CAMP AT THE Y
MAKE YOUR MARK
NEWHOMES FROM THE $300 s –$800 s 281.640.4004 23634 Savannah Sparrow Lane, Katy, TX 77493
Offering day camps around the Houston area for kids and teens and overnight adventures at YMCA Camp Cullen.
From Grand Parkway, exit FM 529 and travel west. Turn right at Elyson Blvd. and follow signs to Model Home Village.
REGISTER TODAY!
DAY CAMP
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Newland is proud to be a part of Brookfield Properties. We are one of the largest developers of mixed-use communities in the United States. With our partner, North America Sekisui House, LLC, we believe it is our responsibility to create enduring, healthier communities for people to live life in ways that matter most to them. newlandco.com | nashcommunities.com
Homes at Elyson ® are built and sold by home builders (“Builders”) unaffiliated with NASH FM 529, LLC (“Owner”), Newland Real Estate Group LLC (“Newland”) or their related entities. Buyers should review the purchase agreement, public offering statement., and other offering materials provided by the seller prior to signing any contract to purchase a home. Details on the prospective development are provided for informational purposes only and there is no guarantee that the final development will match the developer’s vision. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. Copyright © 2022 NASH FM 529, LLC (“Owner”). All Rights Reserved. No reproductions, distribution, or unauthorized transmission of any portion is permitted without written permission of Fee Owner. (3/22)
YMCA Mission: To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Everyone is welcome.
16
COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
GOVERNMENT City of Katy to redistrict itswards to alignwith 2020 census data
BY ASIA ARMOUR
they live. Seaquist explained that the redistricting plan will be covered over four meetings. “After tonight’s meeting, our firm is going to prepare a draft plan to start with,” he said. “We will bring that before you at our next meeting. I’ll have a GIS specialist here; our draft plan [will be] a starting off point.” A GIS, or geographic information systems, specialist designs, develops and implements systems and data- bases to access and store geospatial data, officials said. They design digital maps using geospatial data and analyze spatial and nonspatial information. Seaquist said maps will not come from Bickerstaff. “They’ll be drawn by the council members based on what you know is best for your constituents,” he said. “We’ll have a GIS specialist available to make any changes [to show] any population shifts in real time.” According to City Secretary Becky McGrew, city officials cannot yet release demographic information
KATYWARDMAP WARD A WARD B
Ward A and Ward B make up the city of Katy, with Ward A representing the south side and Ward B representing the north.
Federal courts have ordered the city of Katy to redistrict Ward A andWard B to align with the “one person, one vote” doctrine due to data from the 2020 census. Ward A represents the southern portion of Katy and is about 7 miles wide and almost 4 miles long. The border measures 31.5 miles. Ward B on the north side is 3.3 miles wide and 3 miles long. Its border is 13.4 miles. To be in compliance with the “one person, one vote” rule, the total population of each ward must be within a 10% overall deviation, according to attorney Gunnar Seaquist of Bickerstaff Heath Delgado Acosta LLP law firm, who is assisting Katy City Council in the redistricting efforts. During a Feb. 28 City Council meeting, Seaquist saidWard A andWard B are just outside of that 10%margin. The 1:1 rule is in context with equal protection under federal law. It deter- mines that all residents are given equal representation, regardless of where
CLAY RD.
COUNCIL MEMBERS
KATY HOCKLEY RD.
MORTON RD.
KATY HOCKLEY CUT OFF RD.
FRANZ RD.
Rory A. Robertson
Dan Smith
Janet Corte
Gina Hicks
CANE ISLAND PKWY.
90
10
PEDERSON RD.
KINGSLAND RD.
1463
WESTHEIMER PKWY.
N
SOURCE: CITY OF KATY WEBSITE/COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
about the wards. City Council, officials and Bickerstaff are internally mapping a timeline for the redistricting efforts and scheduling for public sessions to allow the community to give input on
the process, she said. After public input is received and any changes are implemented, the plan will be ready for adoption in late spring or early summer, she said.
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17
KATY EDITION • MARCH 2022
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Contact me for all your Real Estate needs! LINDA LEIBY 281-610-8644 23922 Cinco Village Center Blvd #123 Katy, TX 77494
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Linda.Leiby@garygreene.com www.LindaLeiby.com
©2016 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Better Homes and Gardens ® is a registered trademark of Meredith Corporation licensed to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Franchise is Independently Owned and Operated. If your property is currently listed with a real estate broker, please disregard. It is not our intention to solicit the offerings of other real estate brokers.
OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR 2022 - 2023 SCHOOL YEAR IS NOW OPEN! SPOTS ARE FILLING QUICKLY!
2225 Porter Road Katy, TX 77493 www.faithwest.org
18
COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER • COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
REGIONAL NEWS
2021 Houston job growth breaks 1981 record
ONTHEREBOUND The Houston area’s job growth has improved since the onset of the pandemic, according to economists. 151,800 new Houston-area jobs in 2021, a new record 126,981 Previous record for new jobs in 1981 87% of the area’s employment has returned to pre-pandemic levels SOURCE: PATRICK JANKOWSKI GREATER HOUSTON PARTNERSHIP COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER will a ect supply chains, which will erode consumer con dence,” he said. “There will be a recession in Europe that will slow growth here, but it will not result in a recession here.”
BY JISHNU NAIR
invasion into Ukraine in terms of potentially a ecting economic growth in the Houston area. According to WISERTrade, which specializes in international trade data, Russia made up 3.1% of Houston imports—most of which Jankowski said came from crude oil coming in for re nement. Jankowski highlighted several regional businesses pulling operations out of Russia, including Exxon- Mobil. He estimated $35 billion in losses. He also noted bipartisan support for President Joe Biden’s move to ban Russian oil imports, even with the resulting increase in prices. He said he does not see “a recession in the cards” for the area but did see the potential for growth to slow. “Prices will go up; the [Federal Reserve] is going to try to control in ation; it’s not going to work. Con ict
Last year was the best year on record for Houston job growth, according to Patrick Jankowski, the Greater Houston Partnership’s senior vice president of research. The Houston area reported 151,800 new jobs in 2021, beating out the previous all-time growth record of 126,981 in 1981 by more than 25,000 jobs. At a March 9 economic webinar presented by the GHP, Jankowski estimated the region would pass the 3.1 million total jobs mark in 2022, which would still be short of pre-pandemic levels of over 3.2 million. Out of the country’s 20 largest metropolitan areas, Houston ranks 10th in terms of jobs recouped, with 87% of the area’s jobs returning to pre-pandemic levels, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Additionally, Jankowski discussed Russia’s
Foster care entities respond to expert panel recommendations
Single-family home prices reach newhighs
Single-family home sales continued to rise in the Houston region in February. RISING HOME SALES Feb. 2021 Feb. 2022
BY GEORGE WIEBE
BY WESLEY GARDNER
Single-family home sales contin- ued to rise in the Houston area in February, increasing 22.9% year over year, according to a March 9 market report from the Houston Association of Realtors. A total of 7,372 units were sold in February, according to HAR, compared to 5,997 in February 2021. The median price of a single-family home sale rose to $328,000 in February, a 19.3% increase over last year. HAR o cials also cited 20,620 listings in February, a 10.7% drop from the 23,082 listings in February 2021. Single-family home inventory—an estimate of howmany months it could take to deplete current listings—was at 1.3 months, matching an all-time
CWOP number. Over the last two years, the state has increasingly relied on unlicensed placements—often motels or o ce buildings—overseen by caseworkers. The expert panel issued a Jan. 10 report describing the foster care system as “woefully inadequate.” The panel recommended the imple- mentation of 23 short- and long-term solutions to employ. Panelists recommended the state strengthen infrastructure; create positions to help the DFPS and HHSC coordinate their e orts; invest in ser- vices to keep children with relatives; enhance access to resources; create mobile crisis centers; and develop a children’s mental health care system.
Single-family units sold
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission and the Department of Family and Protective Services responded in mid-February to 23 recommendations provided by a panel aimed at addressing de cien- cies in Texas’ foster care system. DFPS o cials said individuals in the state’s foster care system receive a “child without placement” designation, or CWOP, when the state cannot nd a suitable and safe placement for that child, requiring the DFPS to provide temporary emergency care until a placement can be secured. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott approved the creation of the panel in October to analyze the rising TUITION INCREASES The Lone Star College System board of trustees approved a tuition increase for the 2022-23 school year. 6.6% $48
+22.9%
5,997
7,372
0
1K 2K
5K 6K 7K 8K 3K 4K
Active listings
23,082
20,620
-10.7%
0 5K 10K 15K 20K 25K
SOURCE: HOUSTON ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
historic low that was also seen fromMarch through May of 2021, according to HAR.
Lone Star College System increases tuition rates amid budget talks
BY ANDREW CHRISTMAN
LSCS Chief Financial O cer Jennifer Mott said the system will need to prepare for at least a 6.6% increase in expenditures due to in ation. Mott said there are three main factors for revenue at LSCS: local taxes, tuition and fees, and state allocations. Information from Mott’s presentation to the board stated the average tuition increase would be around $48 per semester for a student attending LSCS.
Mott said the total increased new revenue for LSCS would be around $16.5 million, or a 4.1% increase compared to scal year 2021-22. O - cials said there were previous plans to increase tuition, but those were put on hold due to the pandemic. Enrollment data from a March 8 meeting shows the student population decreased by 8.1% from fall 2019 to fall 2021, though it remains the largest community college in the state.
Prior to discussions for the scal year 2022-23 budget, the Lone Star College System board of trustees heard a presentation regarding rais- ing tuition rates for students. The tuition rates were approved during the March 8 meeting and will take e ect for the fall semester later this year. The budget will be presented to the board for in August. During a March 3 budget retreat,
average tuition increase per semester
$6 12 tuition increase was approved in March
is the range of extra cost per credit hour a student could pay
SOURCE: LONE STAR COLLEGE COMMUNITY IMPACT NEWSPAPER
19
KATY EDITION • MARCH 2022
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