Conroe - Montgomery Edition | April 2023

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CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION

VOLUME 9, ISSUE 1 APRIL 25MAY 22, 2023

After the River Plantation neighborhood in Conroe experienced ooding, the house that used to be on this lot, outlined here, was bought out and demolished by Montgomery County through its home buyout program.

BREAKING DOWN THE BUYOUTS

Through Montgomery County’s ood buyout programs, a total of 73 houses have been purchased through two dierent federal grant programs.

$66.04M allocated $15.5M spent

Keke’s Snowballs brings creative avors to Willis

6 County buyout

11 homes bought in 2023 (goal: 50)

programs 6 Relocations to new housing

73 buyouts completed

SOURCE: MONTGOMERY COUNTY OFFICE OF HOMELAND SECURITY AND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENTCOMMUNITY IMPACT

FM 2854 improvements get underway

LIZZY SPANGLERCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Montgomery County continues home buyouts Having purchased 73 homes countywide since 2020, Montgomery County expects to receive nearly $14 mil- lion in additional funding by May as it continues eorts to buy out previously ooded homes. BY JESSICA SHORTEN & LIZZY SPANGLER

Montgomery ISD approves SMART Tag bus system

in August 2017, Community Impact previously reported. The county’s home buyout program relies on two funding sources—the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. In May, $13.64 million in funds from FEMA’s 2021 Flood Mitigation Assistance program is set to be received, with buyouts anticipated to begin in November, Lumbley said. Twenty-eight eligible homes were included in the initial application for the program. Since 2015, Montgomery County has sustained a num- ber of ooding events, including Harvey, and the Tax

The county has bought out 11 homes so far in 2023, with a goal to purchase 50 by the end of the year, Mont- gomery County Recovery Manager Morgan Lumbley said in an interview. Of the 73 home buyouts, 10 houses were bought out in the Conroe-area neighborhood of River Plantation, which saw 12-14 feet of water during Hurricane Harvey

Education

CONTINUED ON 32

Nonprots support growing veteran population in Conroe, Montgomery

“What a better place to open FOB Rasor than right in the center of Conroe where people

Kale & Kettle adds dine-in seating in Montgomery

can come to and get help, because there’s a lot of us [veterans].”

BY PEYTON MACKENZIE

increased 11.28%, while the national veteran population decreased 10.77% in that time. Locally, Dr. Jason Biscamp, the program director for the Conroe Outpatient VA Clinic, said after mov- ing buildings in 2015, the outpatient clinic was seeing around 7,000- 8,000 patients a year. That num- ber grew in 2022 to helping 13,900

Pull the newest teaser from CC Libraries

As the veteran population grows in Conroe and Montgomery, non- prots are stepping up to provide resources for veterans struggling to reintegrate into society. According to ve-year American Community Survey estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, from 2016- 21 the veteran population across Conroe and Montgomery ZIP codes

JEFF SHILANSKI, FOUNDER OF FOB RASOR

CONTINUED ON 34

COURTESY JEFF SHILANSKI

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CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION • APRIL 2023

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THIS ISSUE

MARKET TEAM GENERAL MANAGER Chrissy Leggett SENIOR EDITOR Anna Lotz REPORTERS Cassandra Jenkins, Peyton MacKenzie, Lizzy Spangler SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Ellen Jackson METRO LEADERSHIP PUBLISHER Jason Culpepper SENIOR MANAGING EDITOR Matt Stephens COPY EDITOR Adrian Gandara ART PRODUCTION MANAGER Ethan Pham CONTACT US 16300 Northwest Freeway Jersey Village, TX 77040 • 281-469-6181 CI CAREERS communityimpact.com/careers PRESS RELEASES comnews@communityimpact.com ADVERTISING comads@communityimpact.com Learn more at communityimpact.com/advertising EMAIL NEWSLETTERS communityimpact.com/newsletter SUPPORT US Join your neighbors by giving to the CI Patron program. Funds support our journalistic mission to provide trusted, local news in your community. Learn more at communityimpact.com/cipatron Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today. We have expanded to include hundreds of team members and have created our own software platform and printing facility. CI delivers 35+ localized editions across Texas to more than 2.5 million residential mailboxes. ABOUT US Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THIS MONTH

FROM CHRISSY: One of our front-page stories this month provides an update on the Montgomery County home buyout programs. Many homes in Montgomery County were significantly damaged in flood events since 2015. As the buyout process can take several years to complete, the county has completed buyouts of only 73 homes so far with more funding on the way. You can read more on Pages 32-33. Chrissy Leggett, GENERAL MANAGER

FROM ANNA: In addition to features on Kale & Kettle Cafe and Strategic Mind Games— two locally-owned businesses—dive into our feature on The Montgomery Community Band on Page 30, a new group bringing a music opportunity to residents in the Montgomery area after one trumpet player saw a need. Anna Lotz, SENIOR EDITOR

"Our story is just beginning. " - JOHN GARRETT, COMMUNITY IMPACT CEO & FOUNDER, AS QUOTED BY TEXAS MONTHLY

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CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION • APRIL 2023

IMPACTS

Businesses that have recently opened or are coming soon, relocating or expanding

149

1097

LEWIS CREEK RESERVOIR

1097

WILLIS

MONTGOMERY

LAKE CONROE

830

Keke’s Snow Balls

COLLEGE ST.

COURTESY KEKE’S SNOW BALLS

105

BEACH WALK BLVD.

transitioning from a food truck. The restaurant includes new menu items, such as homemade chicken tenders, loaded mac and cheese, salads, burgers, and sandwiches, as well as food truck favorites, including the steak sandwich and wowzier fries. 832-349-4191. www.themontgomerygrove.com 6 Pinpoint Movers , located at 1521 Wilson Road, opened its new supplies box store March 23 in Conroe. Customer service representative Danielle Anderson said the new store sells packing material, and provides residential and commercial moving help along with packing and unpacking in and out of state. Pinpoint Movers is a women-owned company based out of Houston. 713-955-2223. www.pinpointmovers.com 7 Beach Walk Coworking and Oce Space opened April 1 at 96 Beach Walk Blvd., Conroe. The business oers upscale ex oce space and amenities. 936-890-5482. www.beachwalkoce.com 8 Monte Nido & Aliates opened a new residential eating disorder center at 15252 Saddlewood Drive, Conroe, on April 3. According to a news release, Monte Nido Houston provides care for adult women with anorexia nervosa, bu- limia nervosa, binge eating disorder and/ or exercise addiction by integrating treat- ment, personal care and 24-hour nursing. 888-228-1253. www.montenido.com 9 Fit Over 50 Studios opened April 1 at 18417 Hwy. 105, Ste. 5, Montgomery. The business oers group tness classes for those age 50 and older, personal training, and pilates reformer equipment. 936-446-9144. www.tover50studios.com

1484

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W. DALLAS ST.

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3083

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MCCALEB RD.

KEENAN CUT OFF RD.

2854

METCALF ST.

CONROE

336

1314

149

WEST FORK SAN JACINTO RIVER

SADDLEWOOD DR.

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MAP NOT TO SCALE

NOW OPEN 1 Keke’s Snow Balls opened March 4 at 10700 FM 1097, Willis. The business oers creative snow cone avors, such as s’mores, Mardi Gras king cake and cheesecake, that can be paired with ice cream, sweet cream and brownies. 936-228-1296. www.kekessnowballs.com 2 Calico Fresh Market , located at 9950 League Line Road, Conroe, re-

4 H-Bistrot opened a second location at 401 College St., Ste 150, in downtown Montgomery on April 7. Owner Steve Hari said H-Bistrot oers food, wine and beer with charcuterie and cheese boards. Hari also owns H-Wines, a wine bar and tasting room in Montgomery. The original H-Bistrot is located in Huntsville. 832-870-9303. www.h-bistrot.com 5 The Montgomery Grove , located at 22016 Eva St., opened its brick-and- mortar location March 15 in Montgomery,

opened March 16 after its prior building was lost in a re in 2020. The market of- fers raw milk, eggs, beef, cheese, butter, sausage, goat milk, honey and popcorn. 936-205-1414. www.calicofreshmarket.com 3 Small Town Famous , located at 312 Metcalf St., hosted a soft opening April 8 in Conroe. Owner Farralyn Wi- throw said the boutique oers West- ern-style vintage and new items, such as

clothes, decor and accessories. www.smalltownfamoustx.com

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COMPILED BY CASSANDRA JENKINS, ANNA LOTZ & PEYTON MACKENZIE

Small Town Famous

Uncle Bob’s BBQ

COURTESY SMALL TOWN FAMOUS

COURTESY UNCLE BOB’S BBQ

COMING SOON 10 Voyages Behavioral Health is open- ing to patients at the end of May. The new hospital at 1317 South Loop 336 W., Conroe, oers acute inpatient behavioral health care for adults and seniors with medical complexities. 281-865-8028. www.voyagesconroe.com 11 First Watch , a restaurant chain serving breakfast, brunch and lunch, will be opening at 12360 I-45, Willis, according to Lacey Martin, the vice president of marketing for Mac Haik Restaurant Group. The restaurant, which will feature a covered patio, is scheduled for an August opening, Martin said. 12 Yoga Studio relocated March 1 from The Church at Woodforest to 2114 McCaleb Road, Ste. 600B, Montgomery. The studio teaches breath-to-body movements for beginners and those looking to build strength and exibility. 936-777-5680. www.oorjayoga.com 13 Conroe Oce Solutions relocated from North Loop 336 East to 704 Longmire Road in Conroe on Feb. 1. Conroe Oce Solutions oers a exible membership with access to free high-speed internet and a large conference room. Margaret Adams, administrator for Conroe Oce Solutions, said members can choose from a fully furnished open shared space or private micro-oce; virtual oces are also available to accept mail and packages. 936-320-0027. www.conroeocesolutions.net www.rstwatch.com RELOCATIONS

14 Uncle Bob’s BBQ relocated from Montgomery to Conroe. The new location at 101 Silverdale Drive opened Jan. 19. Uncle Bob’s BBQ & Catering sells brisket, pulled pork, smoked sausage and grilled chicken as well as baked potatoes, hamburgers, brisket grilled cheese and banana pudding. 936-448-9227. www.unclebobssauces.com EXPANSIONS 15 God’s Garage is a nonprot ministry that provides reliable transportation to single mothers, widows and wives of deployed military in need. Located at 2100 E. Davis St., Conroe, the nonprot cut the ribbon on a new 9,800-square- foot multipurpose garage and ministry facility Feb. 18 to increase the ministry’s capabilities. 936-286-8000. www.godsgarage.org ANNIVERSARIES 16 Free Spirit is located at 806 W. Dallas St., Conroe. The Christian gift store celebrated 10 years of business April 2. According to owner Tina Wohlgemuth, the business began as a bookstore and gift shop, but now carries a variety of Bibles, cards and jewelry. 936-756-1283. Facebook: Free Spirit 17 Magnolia Outdoor Living will celebrate 10 years on May 1. Owner Susan Broerman said the business sells Amish-made, durable outdoor furniture made from recycled milk jugs. The shop sells chairs, tables, swings, bar stools and chaise lounges. The Conroe location is at 14543 Hwy. 105. 832-521-5929. www.magnoliatexasoutdoorliving.com

LOCAL HOT SPOT

336 Marketplace

COURTESY LA MADELEINE

COMING SOON 3 According to a March 15 news release, Feng Cha Teahouse is ex- pected to open in April at 449 S. Loop 336 W., Ste. 900. The franchise serves smoothies, milk tea, Thai tea and boba tea. www.fengchausa.com 4 Tropical Smoothie Cafe is slated to open by year’s end, dishing up its made- to-order smoothies, sandwiches, wraps and atbreads, according to a March 15 news release. It will be located at 215 S. Loop 336 W., Ste. 200, according to Fidelis. www.tropicalsmoothiecafe.com 5 In 2024, Petco is anticipated to open in the second quarter in 336 Market- place. According to its website, Petco oers merchandise, grooming, training and pet wellness products to improve the lives of pets and pet parents. www.petco.com

Several new restaurants and retailers are popping up at 336 Marketplace, located at the southwest corner of South Loop 336 and I-45 in Conroe. NOW OPEN 1 La Madeleine , located at 247 S. Loop 336 W., Ste. 700, opened its rst Conroe location March 15. La Madeleine serves all-day breakfast options, sandwiches, soups and salads, including the popular Caesar salad. The cafe also serves entrees and doubles as a traditional French bak- ery. www.lamadeleine.com 2 The Noodle Korean BBQ and Tea Bar , a fast-casual restaurant oering a variety of ramen dishes and Korean barbecue, held its soft opening April 20. The Noodle also includes a full bar. It is located at 215 S. Loop 336 W., Ste. 700. Facebook: The Noodle Korean BBQ & TEA bar

TOWN PARK DR.

336

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CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION • APRIL 2023

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TODO LIST

May events

MAY 04

ATTEND A CONCERT IN CONROE HERITAGE PLACE

Conroe’s concert series will feature a Kenny Chesney tribute by Barefoot Nation. The event will include on-site food trucks, and outside food and drinks will be allowed. Glass containers are prohibited. 7 p.m. Free (admission). Heritage Place, 500 Metcalf St., Conroe. 936-522-3900. www.cityofconroe.org (Courtesy city of Conroe)

13 ATTEND A CHOIR PERFORMANCE

COMPILED BY PEYTON MACKENZIE

MAY 05 CELEBRATE CINCO DE MAYO The Table at Madeley will be hosting a Cinco De Mayo Tejano two-step. The event will include a live DJ and food and drink specials. Guests will have room to dance under oak trees and fellowship with other guests. 7:30-10 p.m. $5 (admission). The Table at Madeley, 316 Madeley St., Conroe. 832-326-2289. www.conroetable.com 06 CATCH A BOAT FESTIVAL SMG Boats is hosting its seventh annual Bugs n Boats festival in Conroe. The event will include food, drinks and family-friendly activities. Attendees will have the opportunity to test drive new 2023 boat models, watch water sports demonstrations, shop vendors, listen to live music, enjoy inatables, and participate in games and raes. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. $10 (adults), free (age 12 and younger). SMG Boats Conroe, 15096 I-45 S., Conroe. 936-241-4698. www.facebook.com/smgboatshouston 07 RUN FOR HUNGER The Montgomery County Food Bank’s annual Outrun Hunger event will include a 5K Trail Run and a 1K Color Dash in Conroe. The event’s proceeds benet the Montgomery County Food Bank’s programs for children, senior citizens and families facing hunger in Montgomery County. Guests can also enjoy live music, photo ops, a kids zone and vendors as part of the day’s event. Noon-3 p.m. $50 (5K), $30 (1K). The Lake House at Grand Central Park, 1039 Lake House Drive, Conroe. 936-271-8800. www.mcfoodbank.org

The Montgomery County Choral Society is hosting a concert that will be Schubert and Sherbet themed with a performance of Schubert’s “Mass in G Major” in collaboration with the College Park High School Choral Department. In addition, there will be a Broadway medley. A reception will follow. 7 p.m. (doors open). $20 (general admission), $15 (senior citizens), $5 (students). First Methodist Conroe, 4308 W. Davis St., Conroe. www.mcchoral.org 13 CATCH A MOVIE IN MONTGOMERY The city of Montgomery will be hosting a movie night at the park with the movie “Coco” in May. The city will also allow local vendors to sell food items during the duration of the movie. Dusk (specic time TBD). Free (admission). Cedar Brake Park, 21358 Eva St., Montgomery. 936-597-6434. www.montgomerytexas.gov 14 ATTEND A MARKET AT MARGARITAVILLE Margaritaville is hosting a market where local vendors will showcase their work. Attendees will have the opportunity to shop local art, food and drink vendors. 2-6 p.m. Free (admission). Margaritaville Lake Resort, 600 Margaritaville Parkway, Montgomery. 936-448-7551. www.margaritavilleresorts.com/ margaritaville-lake-resort-lake-conroe 20 LISTEN TO A SPRING CONCERT School of Rock is hosting a spring showcase where students will perform pieces they have been working on. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Free. Southern Star Brewery, 3525 North Frazier St., Conroe. www.schoolofrock.com

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Find more or submit Conroe and Montgomery 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.

CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION • APRIL 2023

TRANSPORTATION UPDATES Long-awaited FM 149, Hwy. 105 project to add turn lanes takes shape in city

was delayed for approximately a year while the city cleared an access easement on the property.” In November 2021, before construc- tion could begin, McCorquodale said the project ran into another issue. “Entergy had to move and relocate a power line,” he said in March. “TxDOT couldn’t begin construction until that power line was moved. So it seems like construction just began last weekend, but the project has been in the works since 2018.” According to TxDOT, the $272,613 project is expected to be complete in the rst quarter of 2023, although an April 3 project update indicated it was 95% complete. The intersection improvements are funded with state dollars. “We appreciate TxDOT helping us on this,” he said. “The turn lane is going to help alleviate the long lines at the trac light for the people traveling north on FM 149 going east learn the city’s vehicles. Davis said by moving the transit operations in-house, it will be up to the city to oversee aspects of all operations, from hiring drivers to training the drivers and complying with federal regulations. City Coun- cil approved extending its contract with MTM Transit to provide sta with time to hire operators and implement the on-demand model. The $173,140 contract extension was approved with $70,436 up to the city.

Conroe moving transit services in-house The city of Conroe voted to begin moving transit operation services in-house during a March 23 council meeting. According to Assistant Director of Transportation Shawn Davis, the city of Conroe has had a partnership with MTM Transit since 2015. The transit company, Davis said, is used to hire drivers, train the drivers and Construction started at the intersection of FM 149 and Hwy. 105 in Montgomery in early March after years of utility and easement delays, city ocials said. The city of Montgomery and Texas Department of Transportation have partnered to construct right- and left-turn lanes at the intersection of FM 149 and Hwy. 105. However, according to an April 3 update from TxDOT—the latest available informa- tion as of press time—the project has been underway since it began in the third quarter of 2018. Assistant City Manager Dave McCorquodale said the project started with installation of new signal poles and stop signs before the project came to a halt in 2019. “There was some back and forth between TxDOT and the city of Mont- gomery to make sure the title was clear in order to donate the property at the time,” he said. “The project

Turn lanes were added at the intersection of FM 149 and Hwy. 105 in March, although the project has been in the works since 2018. (Anna Lotz/Community Impact)

on Hwy. 105. Overall, it will help alleviate the congestion that’s been at that intersection in the past.” The project is being worked on by contractor CityLynx. Turn lanes were open as of press time April 18. Timeline: third quarter 2018-first quarter 2023 Cost: $272,613 Funding source: TxDOT

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FM 2854 overlay improvements underway

An overlay project on FM 2854 in Montgomery is expected to continue through the fall, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. The project, which began in Janu- ary, will also add turn lanes at Hwy. 105, Ponderosa Drive, and Collier Cemetery and Deer Lake Lodge roads, according to TxDOT. The project spans from Hwy. 105 to the San Jacinto River. Contractor Texas Materials is working on the project.

SAN JACINTO RIVER

105

2854

DEER LAKE LODGE RD.

COLLIER CEMETERY RD.

PONDEROSA DR.

Timeline: Jan. 16-fall 2023 Cost: $10.4 million Funding source: TxDOT

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COMPILED BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

ONGOING PROJECTS

1488

242

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MOSTYN DR.

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1097

ALL INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE WAS UPDATED AS OF APRIL 6. NEWS OR QUESTIONS ABOUT THESE OR OTHER LOCAL TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS? EMAIL US AT COMNEWS@COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM. for slight widening and restriping of intersections. No commercial or residential properties would be displaced as a result of detention pond construction, according to meeting materials. Timeline: October 2023-TBD Cost: $29 million Funding source: TxDOT TxDOT updates plan for Hwy. 242 Texas Department of Transportation officials unveiled a new design for Hwy. 242 from FM 1488 to I-45 on March 9, including possible wider turn lanes at intersections, curbed medians and 10.74 acres for detention ponds. The revised proposal no longer requires additional right of way for lane expansion. Instead, it relies on the existing right of way to make room

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I-45 northbound frontage road TxDOT has a project ongoing to create a three-lane northbound frontage road for I-45 that will span from FM 830 to FM 1097 for Willis-area drivers. The project began in September and is slated for completion by the fourth quarter of 2023. Construction was 41% complete as of the latest available update April 3 from TxDOT, and contractor James Construction Group is working on the project. Timeline: September 2022-fourth quarter 2023 Cost: $7.47 million Funding sources: state, federal

FM 1488 median project The Texas Department of Transportation has a project slated to construct a raised median from I-45 in the Conroe area to Mostyn Drive in Magnolia. The latest available update April 3 from TxDOT shows the project as beginning in the first quarter of 2023, although the project is 0% complete. It is slated to end by the fourth quarter of 2025. The project was awarded to ISI Contracting Inc. Timeline: first quarter 2023-fourth quarter 2025 Cost: $10.22 million Funding sources: federal, state

Overlay project on Hwy. 75 TxDOT has an asphalt overlay project underway on Hwy. 75 from League Line Road to North Loop 336 in Conroe, which began in January, TxDOT officials previously said. The project is slated to be complete by the third quarter of 2023. Construction was 62% complete as of the latest available update April 3 from TxDOT. Contractor Vulcan Materials is working on the project. Timeline: January-third quarter 2023 Cost: $3.45 million Funding source: state

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CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION • APRIL 2023

DEVELOPMENT UPDATES

COMPILED BY ANNA LOTZ

RENDERING COURTESY FIRST MILLENNIUM REALTY

COURTESY TOTAL PR

GRAND CENTRAL PARK Grand Central Park announced the opening of its South Village in a news release March 22, a new section of the master-planned community that will add 224 homes. The first phase is under development with 118 homesites. Builders are offering 55-, 60- and 65-foot-wide lots in the first phase with prices beginning in the $300,000s, according to the release. The new village will also include Deer Lake Park. Space: 224 homes Timeline: opened in March (Phase 1); home sales to begin in late 2023-2024 (phases 2-3) COURTESY TOTAL PR

105 BUSINESS PLAZA First Millennium Realty is developing the 105 Business Plaza, a mix of retail and office spaces for about 15 tenants, according to the firm. Construction of the building shells is anticipated to wrap up by the end of April with businesses moving in this summer. Possible tenants include a meat market, pizza place and bakery, among others, according to First Millennium Realty. Family First Urgent Care is also slated for the plaza and expected to open July 1.

WILLIAMS RESERVE EAST Ellison Development broke ground March 2 on Williams Reserve East, a 46-home community in Conroe. The first home to break ground is part of the Greater Houston Builders Association’s Benefit Homes Project, where profits from the home sale will go to support HomeAid Houston and Operation Finally Home. Homes will span from three quarters of an acre to 1.5 acres with prices ranging from about $325,000 to $350,000, according to homebuilder ASGI Homes. Space: 46 homes Timeline: broke ground March 2

Space: 30,000 square feet Timeline: opening in summer

WILLIS WAUKEGAN RD.

336

105

E. WILLIAMS RD.

TOWN PARK DR.

1485

WILLIAMS RESERVE DR.

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Equal Housing Opportunity. *Offer of credit subject to credit approval. Membership requirements apply. See website for details. Promotion dates April 3–28, 2023 . NMLS #464074

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DEVELOPMENT 16 duplexes taking shape in Conroe to house at-risk youth

IT TAKES A

VILLAGE

Angel Reach Village is under construction in Conroe to house at-risk youth ages 16-24 who are aging out of foster care. Phase 1 includes 16 duplexes with 32 beds .

Each unit spans 550 square feet .

BY ANNA LOTZ

The Signorelli Co. and its team have contributed $2.2 million in donations, services and expertise toward the project, according to the release. “Our purpose of creating better places to enrich lives and lifestyles was truly fullled through this part- nership with Angel Reach,” Danny Signorelli, president and CEO of The Signorelli Co., said in the release. Radach said Angel Reach received 35 referrals, or requests for assis- tance, in February alone with a waiting list of 15 youth to help. “I wish there wasn’t that kind of a need,” she said. “The housing part of it is just the beginning, because the transitional living program services— the wrap-around services—really help ll some of those gaps and needs that the kids have.” Beyond housing, Angel Reach also provides case management services

Conroe-based nonprot Angel Reach is responding to the need for housing at-risk youth by constructing Angel Reach Village, a community in Conroe. The 16 duplexes in Angel Reach Village are expected to open around August with infrastructure and utilities complete as of late March, Angel Reach Executive Director Jean Radach said. Angel Reach, a Conroe faith- based organization assisting youth ages 16-24 who are aging out of foster care and at risk of homelessness, broke ground on the village alongside The Signorelli Co. in October 2021. According to a March 22 news release from The Signorelli Co., First America Homes had begun construction on the rst eight duplexes. The additional duplexes will be constructed by HomeAid and Grace- point Homes, Radach said.

Village expected to open in August

COURTESY ANGEL REACH

SOURCE: ANGEL REACHCOMMUNITY IMPACT

and helps residents with transporta- tion, life skills classes, tutoring and counseling; receiving their driver’s license; earning a GED certicate; and nding a job, Radach said. A second phase is also planned

3.216 acres from the city of Conroe for $500 in May 2022, according to previous reporting. “We’ll get Phase 1 ... up and running and make sure that we have the program and the support system wrapped around the housing before we start on Phase 2,” Radach said.

to expand the village, Radach said. Angel Reach purchased

512-232-5000 EdServices@austin.utexas.edu

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CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION • APRIL 2023

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SANDERLING AT WOODFOREST

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113 Sanderling Alexandria • 3026 Sq Ft

106 Golden Eye Jacob • 3437 Sq Ft 4 Bed, 4.5 Bath

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122 Sanderling Alexandria • 3026 Sq Ft

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For more information about these listings and available plans, contact our Sales Team or visit GracepointHomes.com

Tammy Sick O: 281.681.0400 C: 281.744.6952 tsick@gracepointhomes.com

Amy Vu O: 281.681.0440 C: 713.550.4888 avu@gracepointhomes.com

Prices, plans, specifications, square footage and availability subject to change without notice or prior obligation. Square footage is approximate and may vary upon elevations and/or options selected. Information given here is deemed to be correct but not guaranteed. 4/2023

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

EDUCATION ESL services expand in Conroe to meet need

105 SPEAKING SPANISH According to ve-year American Community Survey estimates, the number of local residents who speak Spanish at 77303 77306

77318

BY PEYTON MACKENZIE

donated funds to expand the program to the inter- mediate level. The ESL classes have a registration fee of $75; however, upon completing the entire course with three or fewer absences, participants are refunded their money. Those interested in taking an ESL course can register on the USTMAX website. The USTMAX Center is not the only place that has recognized a need for ESL classes in Conroe. Literacy First is a free English program that has been operating out of First Baptist Conroe for nine years. According to founder and Program Director Connie Anthony, the program is not only geared toward Spanish-based households, but also enrolls partic- ipants from over 15 countries. Anthony said before the COVID-19 pandemic, enrollment was around 90-100 participants. Anthony said the program oers ve levels and teaches English as well as American History. Anthony said her mission is to provide the commu- nity with opportunities to partner and grow English prociency across the city. “Anyone in the community that is interested in starting or has a program, just contact me because I feel like all of us getting together and sharing what we are able to do, there may be something that you provide [that can be shared with participants],” Anthony said.

The USTMAX Center, a microcampus of the University of St. Thomas in Conroe, is rolling out an intermediate English as a Second Language class for Spanish-speaking households to meet demand for more ESL classes in the area, university ocials said. The U.S. Census Bureau’s ve-year American Community Survey estimates show the number of residents age 5 and older who speak a language other than English at home increased 19.39% from 2016-21 in Conroe-area ZIP codes. Of those, the number of people who speak Spanish grew from 29,114 to 33,877 from 2016-21. Recruitment Counselor Brenda Banegas said when the center launched the ESL program in spring 2021, it received interest from over 500 community members, but the center only has availability for 15 students. Once the class ended, Banegas said the need for an intermediate class was apparent. “One of my favorite things is the condence that [participants in the program] gain,” Banegas said. “So for me, that is one of the greatest things that brings me joy and makes me feel good about teaching this ESL class is that we are making a dierence, yes, by helping them speak English, but also by helping them have more condence and higher self-esteem.” As demand has grown, Alumni Paul Vallhonrat

77304

77301

home grew 16.36% from 2016-21, rising in three Conroe-area ZIP codes.

77302

2021 population age 5 and older speaking Spanish at home

Literacy First 600 N. Main St., Conroe 936-756-6601 www.cconroe.org To register, visit First Baptist Conroe on a Tuesday or Thursday at 9 a.m. or email connie@literacyconnexus.org.

USTMAX Center 336 N. Main St., Ste. 102, Conroe 936-207-2926 To register, visit tinyurl.com/ ustmaxesl.

SOURCES: U.S. CENSUS BUREAU, USTMAX CENTER, FIRST BAPTIST CONROECOMMUNITY IMPACT

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CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION • APRIL 2023

Mother’s Day Brunch Treat mom to a meal in paradise at our special Mother’s Day Brunch. We’re serving up mom-approved favorites, including Texas-sized French toast, garlic crusted tenderloin, brisket eggs benedict, housemade pastries, decadent desserts, and a Bloody Mary, Mimosa and Bellini Bar. RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED CALL 877.286.9590 TO BOOK A TABLE

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At Woodforest, enjoy a quiet, relaxing lifestyle in a tucked-away location – with all of the benefits of city living close at hand. Located within walking distance of Stewart Elementary, you’ll also have access to all the Woodforest community amenities, including a 16-acre aquatic and tennis center and the onsite Woodforest Golf Club. Priced from the low $300s, these thoughtfully designed homes include features like tall ceilings, central kitchen islands and open floorplans. Plus, during our In With The New Home Sales Event, enjoy special pricing and financing on select move-in-ready homes! Scan the QR code below to learn more.

Woodforest | New homes from the low $300s | 1,600 - 2,976 sq. ft.

The prices of our homes, included features, plans, specifications, promotions/incentives, neighborhood build-out and available locations are subject to change without notice. Stated dimensions, square footage and acreage are approximate and should not be used as a representation of any home’s or homesite’s precise or actual size, location or orientation. There is no guarantee that any particular homesite or home will be available. A Broker/Agent must register their client in person on client’s first visit at each community for a Broker/Agent to receive a commission or referral fee, if available. Not all features and options are available in all homes. Unless otherwise expressly stated, homes do not come with hardscape, landscape, or other decorator items. Any photographs or renderings used herein reflect artists’ conceptions and are for illustrative purposes only. Community maps, illustrations, plans and/or amenities reflect our current vision and are subject to change without notice. Maps not to scale. Photographs or renderings of people do not depict or indicate any preference regarding race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, familial status, or national origin. Our name and the logos contained herein are registered trademarks of Tri Pointe Homes, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. © 2023 Tri Pointe Homes Texas, Inc. All rights reserved.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

NEWS BRIEFS

MISD chooses site for CTE, agricultural science centers

communications and public relations, said a centrally located area was a priority for the district. “We are very pleased to have secured this location for the future Montgomery ISD CTE and Ag-Science centers,” he said in an email. “Ultimately, we want our students, sta and community to be extremely proud of these facilities. There have been many hours put into the design and planning work to deliver on our commu-

BY CASSANDRA JENKINS

The 33.8-acre property for Montgomery ISD’s career and technology center and agricultural science center will be located along Lone Star Parkway between Bualo Springs and Plez Morgan drives, according to the city of Montgomery’s March 14 agenda packet. A due diligence phase in October explored a poten- tial site for the two centers. According to prior Com- munity Impact reporting, the proposed $61.61 million centralized CTE facility will serve both Montgomery High School and Lake Creek High School as will the proposed $21.31 million centralized agricultural science center. Justin Marino, assistant superintendent of

nity’s expectations that these facilities take our district’s already outstanding CTE oerings to the next level.” MISD projects the centers to be com- plete in July 2025. Design for the agricul- tural center will begin in April 2024.

Entergy is working on reliability projects in the Conroe area for consumers.

SITE FOR MISD CENTERS

COURTESY ENTERGY

1097

PLEZ MORGAN

Entergy continues projects to improve reliability locally

BY PEYTON MACKENZIE

Entergy, which delivers electricity to customers in Montgomery County, has projects underway around the Conroe area to improve reliability, the company said. Kurt Luker—an operations coor- dinator with Entergy—said Entergy began rebuilding its most aging and problematic sections within Conroe. As of March, Luker said he was working in the area of Avenue M to east of Loop 336 and from Avenue M and FM 3083 north to Hwy. 105. Luker said Entergy is also installing protective devices to help minimize outages when problems—such as storms or public-inicted damages on the system—do occur. “Our newest standards include high-wind mitigation that will help in the hurricane season that we are all familiar with living close to the Gulf Coast,” he said. The projects are slated to nish in late 2023, Senior Communications Specialist Katie Rogers said.

Conroe ISD plans for higher costs, lower tax rate in FY 202324

BY CASSANDRA JENKINS

to jump $48.35 million, raising the beginning revenue budget to $671.65 million. A large portion of the increase is due to costs for additional person- nel. According to the presentation, $34.7 million will go toward hiring special education counselors, teach- ers and paraprofessionals; additional bus drivers; instructional coaches; and stang for two new schools. The budget increase does not include a salary increase or teacher retention stipend as district ocials said they are awaiting the results of

legislative decisions, including Senate Bill 9, which was authored by state Sen. Brandon Creighton, RConroe. SB 9 would oer a salary increase of $2,000 for districts with enroll- ment over 20,000 and $6,000 for districts with enrollment under 20,000. That means every district in Montgomery County except CISD would get a $6,000 raise for teachers. “To be clear, we anticipate there to be a raise,” CISD Superintendent Curtis Null said. “We’re just still waiting on Austin to give us the money to do it.”

The Conroe ISD board of trustees held a special meeting April 4 to begin budget discussions for scal year 2023-24, anticipating a tax rate drop from $1.11 to $1.05 per $100 valuation. At the same time, enrollment is expected to increase in FY 2023-24 by 2,600 students, and the district lacks funding to provide employee raises or retention stipends, according to a presentation at the meeting. According to the presentation, expenses in FY 2023-24 are expected

2023 BUDGET TIMELINE Conroe ISD began budget planning in April.

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUG.

SEPT.

SOURCE: CONROE ISD COMMUNITY IMPACT

April 4: First budget workshop

June 6: Second budget workshop

Aug. 1: Public hearing

Aug. 15: Budget, tax rate vote

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CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION • APRIL 2023

Trail of Homes

APRIL 15-30 Grand Opening! ature takes center stage in Evergreen, a new 740-acre community in Conroe. Adding to Evergreen’s appeal are beautiful homes filled with modern efficiencies, exciting planned amenities and a prime location that gives you access to fun in The Woodlands area and beyond. N Stop by 11am-2 pm on Saturdays for extra fun, with activities planned for the entire family. S’more & Trail Mix Stations, Interactive Butterfly Characters, crafts and more!

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* NO PURCHASE IS NECESSARY. Promotion Period is April 15, 2023 at 12:00 a.m. Central Standard Time and ends on April 30, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. Central Standard Time Participants must be 18 years of age or older, legal residents and must reside in Greater Houston Texas. Making a referral will not increase your chance of winning. Odds depend on the number eligible entries. Additional terms and restrictions apply. Please see https://evergreen-texas.com/grandopeningdisc for a complete set of the Official Rules.

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