Pearland - Friendswood - Manvel | January 2026

The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.

Pearland Friendswood Manvel Edition VOLUME 12, ISSUE 2 JAN. 14FEB. 11, 2026

2026 Health & Wellness Edition

Brought to you by our gold sponsors:

Pearland expands trails and sidewalks to improve walkability

INSIDE

Also in this issue

Health & wellness: Discover inclusive parks coming to Pearland and Manvel (Page 14)

Election: See who’s on the ballot for primary races in Brazoria County (Page 25)

Pearland residents walk along the trail at Shadow Creek Parkway. (Rachel Leland/Community Impact)

Free wellness program by Memorial Hermann.

Discover a healthier you with Resolution ® , our no-cost, four-week, personalized wellness program that includes:

Meal Plans | Workouts | Guided Meditations

Join

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

MADE FOR YOU

At David Weekley Homes, you are the inspiration behind every decision we make. Your Personal Home Team in Houston will work with you from selection to move-in and beyond — because you deserve a home built with you in mind.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR NEW HOMES NEAR YOU:

Beacon Point | Meridiana | Pomona | Sienna | Legacy

Find your dream home by contacting the Houston Team at 713-979-5058

See a David Weekley Homes Sales Consultant for details. Prices, plans, dimensions, features, specifications, materials, and availability of homes or communities are subject to change without notice or obligation. Illustrations are artist’s depictions only and may differ from completed improvements. Copyright © 2025 David Weekley Homes – All Rights Reserved. Houston, TX (HOU-25-005453)

PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD - MANVEL EDITION

New year, renewed focus on your health.

As your resource for senior-focused healthcare, Kelsey-Seybold for Seniors can help ensure you receive quality, proactive, coordinated care that understands your changing health needs. There are several ways to learn about your Medicare coverage options, you can review resources from Medicare, contact Medicare Advantage health plans directly, or speak with a licensed insurance agent.* 713-442-8526 (TTY: 711) Choose your Kelsey-Seybold provider today! Calling this number will connect you to a licensed insurance agent.

seniors.kelsey-seybold.com

*There are several ways to learn about your Medicare coverage options. You can review the CMS website at medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227/TTY call 1-877-486-2048), 24 hours a day/7 days a week. You can contact Medicare Advantage health plans directly for information about the plans they offer. Another option is to speak with a licensed insurance agent. Kelsey-Seybold Clinic accepts patients with Medicare Advantage plans. Not all plans accepted. Call for details. © 2026 Kelsey-Seybold Clinic. All rights reserved. KSSCIJ_1085

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

About Community Impact

Owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched Community Impact in 2005, and the company is still locally owned today with editions across Texas. Our mission is to provide trusted news and local information that everyone gets. Our vision is to build communities of informed citizens and thriving businesses through the collaboration of a passionate team. Our purpose is to be a light for our readers, customers, partners and each other by living out our core values of Faith, Passion, Quality, Innovation and Integrity.

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Jovanna Aguilar Angela Bonilla Sarah Brager Melissa Enaje Wesley Gardner Cole Gee Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Roo Moody Tomer Ronen

Papar Faircloth General Manager pfaircloth@ communityimpact.com

Nichaela Shaheen Catherine White Graphic Designers Richard Galvan Ellen Jackson Matt Mills

Jake Schlesinger Jesus Verastegui Ronald Winters Managing Editor James T. Norman Product Manager Martha Risinger Quality Desk Editor Sarah Hernandez Houston Market President Jason Culpepper

Haley Velasco Editor hvelasco@ communityimpact.com

Lindsay Radenz Account Executive lradenz@ communityimpact.com

16300 Northwest Freeway Jersey Village, TX 77040 • 281-469-6181 CI careers

We've teamed up to bring you more of the stories you care about.

communityimpact.com/careers linkedin.com/company/communityimpact plfnews@communityimpact.com plfads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising

Proudly printed by

Press releases

Advertising

Email newsletters

communityimpact.com/newsletter

Yes, We Do. We have a wide range of competitive personal and business banking services. With those services comes our HomeTown, accessible team of staff members and their commitment to the Pearand community.

Loan decisions are made locally by people who share your interests. HomeTown Bank’s business lending options include: Equipment loans ✔

Free app for your smartphone Instant debit card transaction alerts with SecurLock Equip Mobile deposit – Quick as a click! Online bill pay Savings Made Simple – debit card transaction automatic savings tool Business Banking – Online cash management for businesses Positive Pay check fraud prevention for businesses (fees could apply)

✔ ✔

Lines of credit Real estate purchases Expansion pans

✔ ✔

✔ ✔ ✔

Acquisitions Construction loans

✔ ✔

✔

Sean Murphy Senior Vice President

2651 Pearand Parkway (281) 412-8000 • HomeTown.Bank

PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD - MANVEL EDITION

Impacts

SHADOW CREEK

MCHARDRD.

MILLER RANCH RD.

Pearland

521

REFLECTION BAY DR.

W. BROA D W A

Friendswood

518

WALNUTST.

20 7

M AGNOLIA PKWY.

BAILEY R D .

288

MCKEEVER RD.

2351

DICKINSON RD.

MANISON PKWY.

288

Manvel

MORRIS AVE.

WEST BLVD.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

5 McDonald’s The global fast food chain serves burgers, fries, chicken nuggets and desserts. • Opened Dec. 3 • 19706 Morris Ave., Manvel • www.mcdonalds.com 6 Dunkin’ Donuts The shop offers a variety of cold and hot drinks, including coffee and iced tea alongside donuts. • Opened Dec. 15 • 21708 State Hwy. 288, Ste. 105, Manvel • www.dunkindonuts.com 7 LaserAway The clinic offers a variety of aesthetic dermatology and cosmetic treatments. • Opened in October • 11200 Broadway St., Ste. 760, Pearland • www.laseraway.com/locations/tx/houston-pearland 8 Riley’s Donuts 7 The shop offers a variety of donuts, kolaches and tacos. • Opened Jan. 5 • 4909 McHard Road, Ste. 110, Pearland • Facebook: Riley’s Donuts 7 9 Uptown Cheapskate and Kid to Kid Uptown Cheapskate buys and sells on-trend clothing. Kid to Kid offers gently used children’s clothing, shoes, toys, books and baby gear. • Opened in December • 2803 Business Center Drive, Ste. 101, Pearland • www.uptowncheapskate.com/location/pearland • www.kidtokid.com/location/pearland

10 Executive Nails & Spa The family-owned salon offers nail services with a bar of complimentary drinks. • Opened Oct. 18 • 2754 Smith Ranch Road, Ste. 102, Pearland • executivenailsandspapearland.com 11 University Federal Credit Union UFCU offers financial services such as savings and checking accounts, loans and credit cards. • Opened in November • 2940 Broadway Bend Drive, Pearland • https://ufcu.org

Now open

1 Maeville Pediatrics The business offers sick care, telemedicine, wellness checkups and prenatal visits. • Opened Dec. 8 • 2813 Smith Ranch Road, Pearland • www.maevillepediatrics.com 2 Grocery Services The store provides groceries for participants in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for the Women, Infants and Children program. • Opened Nov. 6 • 2837 Miller Ranch Road, Ste. 129, Pearland • www.grocsvcs.com 3 Crunch Fitness The gym franchise offers high-intensity interval training workouts with equipment. • Opened Dec. 17 • 2800 E. Broadway St., Pearland • www.crunch.com 4 Memorial Hermann Convenient Care Center The center offers 24/7 emergency services, as well as primary care and physical therapy. • Opened Dec. 13 • 210 N. Bypass 35, Alvin • www.memorialhermann.org/locations/convenient- care-center-alvin

Coming soon

12 Power Fit Eats The 1,000 square-foot facility will offer a strength training area, cafe, dining area and a shop with apparel. • Opening mid-January • 214 S. Friendswood Drive, Friendswood • www.powerfiteats.com 13 Nawa Coffee House The artisan coffee shop will be inspired by Middle Eastern tradition and modern design. • Opening in March • 2210 S. Friendswood Drive, Friendswood • Facebook: Nawa Coffee House

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

Relocations

What's next PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION

Now open

17 Desert Rose Beauty Co. Previously named J. Miles Salon, the name change follows a rebrand with a new Western aesthetic. • Relocated Jan. 6 • 122 S. Friendswood Drive, Friendswood • nicolenoles.glossgenius.com

14 Sky Zone The trampoline park will offer wall-to-wall trampoline courts, foam pits and aerial play. • Opening TBD • 2028 Main St., Pearland • www.skyzone.com 15 Qurbah House of Coffee The shop will offer a variety of coffee and café items, including espresso-based drinks and teas. • Opening TBD • 2000 Reflection Bay Drive, Ste. 102, Pearland • Instagram: Qurbah House of Coffee 16 Kido Preschool & DayCare The Pearland location will have a large partially covered outdoor playground and a daily Spanish immersion program included in the English language curriculum. • Opening TBD • 14149 Broadway St., Pearland • www.kidoschools.com

Expansions

18 HCA Houston Healthcare Pearland The $60 million expansion, expected to begin late 2026, will increase the hospital’s capacity and enhance its facilities. • 11100 Shadow Creek Parkway, Pearland • www.hcahoustonhealthcare.com/locations/pearland

20 Mini Seoul Mart Located in the Pearland Town Center, The Korean convenience store features Korean street food, snacks, and drinks, including pouch drinks that can be paired with self-serve cups of ice. • Opened in October • 11200 Broadway St., #1385, Pearland • www.mini-seoul.com

In the news

19 Family Animal Hospital of Friendswood The animal hospital celebrated its 10-year anniversary on Nov. 15. Services include veterinary health for pets. • 1 Oaktree St., Friendswood • www.familyahfriendswood.com

You could say Midline is very much in the middle of somewhere. Nicely nestled between Baybrook Mall and Challenger Seven Memorial Park, everything from restaurants to retail to nature is nearby. Miles of trails (and a pool) are in the plans. And a fresh mix of homes from our first four builders will be your home base for it all. New homes from the high $300s to $800s+ MODEL HOMES NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION COMING APRIL 2026

Learn more at MidlineTX.com

SOUTH OF HOUSTON | WEST OF THE BAY

Pricing is provided for informational purposes only, is non-binding, and is subject to adjustments and change. Availability, prices, materials and options may vary. All photographs, renderings and other depictions are for the sole purpose of illustration. Brookfield and its affiliates do not discriminate against any class of persons protected by federal, state or local law. Models do not reflect racial preference. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. Copyright ©2025 Midline is a trademark of BC-SB Baybrook JV LLC, and may not be copied, imitated or used, in whole or in part, without prior written permission.

PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD - MANVEL EDITION

Government

BY RACHEL LELAND

Pearland city officials deny permit for funeral home along Cullen Parkway

HUGHES RANCH RD.

Subject property

CRYSTAL LAKE DR.

Efforts to build a funeral home in Pearland will not move forward after City Council struck down a permit request in a 3-4 vote at its Dec. 8 meeting, citing concerns that the development lacked parking capacity and worries about event guests bringing alcohol. The vote prompted comments about how the ongoing unified development code, or UDC, rewrite would impact future permit requests. The details The conditional use permit, or CUP, was requested by Harry Gendel Architects, which sought to build a funeral home near the intersec- tion of Hughes Road and Cullen Parkway. A CUP is required for private, for-profit businesses within a mixed use zoning district,

according to city documents. The background

By the numbers

The Planning and Zoning Commission unan- imously recommended approving the zoning change at its Nov. 17 meeting, according to city documents. After the P&Z meeting, the city received 17 written comments from residents opposing the development, city staff said. What they’re saying Council member Clint Byron said he hoped the upcoming UDC rewrite would simplify the process for businesses seeking permits in the city’s various zoning designations. For example, the applicant had to state the property as a recreation center, rather than a funeral home.

Pearland is currently rewriting its unified development code, or UDC, to better align with Pearland 2040 Comprehensive Plan.

$129,301 of the general fund will support the ongoing UDC rewrite 2006 was when the UDC was last updated

September 2024 was when the city approved the comprehensive plan

5 chapters are in the current UDC

SOURCE: CITY OF PEARLAND/COMMUNITY IMPACT

“This is the kind of stuff I hope we can address in the UDC to ensure that things like this can get done without such an involved process for the property owners,” Byron said at the meeting.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY RACHEL LELAND & HALEY VELASCO

Friendswood updates building codes After a lengthy discussion, Friendswood city officials could soon approve updating the city’s building and fire codes, though some council members felt doing so could cause unintended burdens for residents to stay in compliance. Friendswood City Council voted 4-3 on the first reading to update its building and fire codes to the 2024 International Fire and Building Codes at its Dec. 1 meeting. Council also voted 4-3 against postponing the first reading of the vote. Why it matters Updating the code allows Friendswood homeowners to achieve a good rating with an insurance service office’s grading schedule for building code effectiveness, according to city documents.

Pearland OKs first reading for multifamily development

Pearland City Council voted 4-2 at its meeting Dec. 15 to approve a rezoning request by developer Rockport Ventures to accommodate a new multi- family development on 15 acres of land. What happened? The request rezoned the property from an office and professional district to a planned development district. Council members Mona Chavarria and Rushi Patel voted against approving the rezoning request. The details The land, which sits north of Magnolia Parkway and west of Manvel Road, is currently zoned to permit business and professional office development. The development would include three buildings, two of which are three stories tall and surface parking. The development will also

FITE RD.

P K

include: • A clubhouse • Pool with outdoor grills • Dog park • An on-site sidewalk along the east side of the detention pond Looking ahead City Council voted on the second reading of the ordinance to rezone the land after press time at its Jan. 12 meeting.

Manvel approves mutual aid agreement with DPS, Brazoria County Sheriff To improve coordination during active attack inci- dents at local schools, Manvel City Council approved a mutual aid agreement at its Dec. 1 meeting involving state and county law enforcement agencies. What you need to know investigation planning for primary and secondary schools in Brazoria County. The agreement stems from House Bill 33, which passed in the 89th Texas Legislature.

Agreement features Multiagency tabletop exercise at least once each odd-numbered year Participation in an in-person drill at least once each even-numbered year Parties will review the agreement each year to determine if any amendments need to be made

The bill mandates DPS and certain local governmen- tal entities employing first responders in each county to provide resources, personnel, facilities, equipment and supplies necessary to respond to active attack incidents at school facilities in the county.

The agreement includes the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office and focuses on emergency response and

SOURCE: CITY OF MANVEL/COMMUNITY IMPACT

PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD - MANVEL EDITION

Education

BY CATHERINE WHITE

Pearland ISD will not meet new bus requirements by 2029, officials say

The options

The district’s proposed plan would replace 12 buses and retrofit 10 each year, reaching full com- pliance over six years without additional funding, according to district documents.

• 62 compliant with SB 546 126 non-compliant, including: • 99 regular-education buses with no seatbelts • 27 special-needs buses with lap belts Manufacturer assessments indicate 119 of the non-compliant buses can be retrofitted to include proper seatbelts. The remaining seven cannot be retrofitted due to age or engineering limitations. At the current replacement rate of 12 buses per year, full compliance would take approximately 11 years, according to district documents. Replacement and retrofit costs are estimated at $150,000 and $35,000 per bus, respectively. Based on current funding, the board concluded full compliance by 2029 is not achievable.

Pearland ISD trustees approved a resolution at its Dec. 9 meeting stating the district does not have the financial capacity to retrofit or replace all buses required for full compliance with new legislation by the September 2029 deadline. Senate Bill 546, passed during the 2025 Texas Legislature, requires all school buses operated by Texas districts to provide three- point seatbelts for every rider by Sept. 1, 2029. The state did not provide funding for the requirement, but districts may accept gifts, grants and donations to support implementation, according to state documents. As of Dec. 1, PISD operates 188 buses, which include:

The board of trustees have reviewed three options for future consideration: Hybrid: Continue replacing 12 buses per year and retrofit remaining eligible buses Accelerated replacement: Replace most or all non-compliant buses lacking seatbelts Heavy retrofit: Retrofit all eligible buses and minimize bus replacements

Next steps

The district must submit detailed inventory, cost estimates and the board resolution to the Texas Education Agency by the end of the 2025-26 school year. TEA will compile district submissions, report findings to the Legislature and identify potential statewide funding needs no later than Jan. 1, 2027, according to state documents. Nearby districts are still assessing compliance. Friendswood ISD will present its data to the school board in the spring, district officials said. Alvin ISD did not respond by press time.

Estimated costs for SB 546 compliance options by 2029

Accelerated replacement

$18.9M

Hybrid

$9.93M

Heavy retrofit (high estimate)

$6.21M

$4.41M Heavy retrofit (low estimate)

SOURCE: PEARLAND ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Your GOALS. Your FUTURE. POWERED BY

11555 Magnolia Pkwy., Suite 170 Pearland, TX 77584 713.852.6700 TexasBayCU.org

Achieve More

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY HALEY VELASCO & CATHERINE WHITE

FISD moves forward with request for qualications for project contractors Friendswood ISD’s board of trustees approved two requests for qualications, or RFQ, for construction managers at risk, or CMAR, at its Dec. 8 meeting. The district is looking to solicit a CMAR to construct foundation projects throughout the district, according to board agenda documents. What you need to know A CMAR allows FISD to connect with the district’s architect and get a contractor to begin working on construction projects right away, said Nolan Correa, FISD’s executive director of facilities and capital projects. Two RFQs for a CMAR were approved for the following projects:

FISD starts planning for 202627 calendar Friendswood ISD ocials are gearing up for the 2026-27 school year and are currently considering two options for the upcoming instructional calendar. Zooming in Some notable dierences in the two options include: • Start dates: Aug. 12 or Aug. 18 • Fall break dates: Oct. 14–19 or Oct. 15–20 • Last day of school: May 21 or May 27 • Teacher work days: Sept. 21 and Oct. 19 or Sept. 28 and Oct. 20 While it is not set in stone, the district could choose to blend dates from both options to culminate a third draft. The board will consider the 2026-27 instruc- tional calendar at its Jan. 20 meeting.

“We believe this is the better way to deliver this method, so that we know

the pricing going into the project, and it just helps us speed up the project.” NOLAN CORREA, EXECUTIVE

DIRECTOR OF FACILITIES AND CAPITAL PROJECTS, FRIENDSWOOD ISD

• Foundation projects at Friendswood High School and FISD’s administration building • Multi-campus heating, ventilation and air conditioning and electrical While the scope within the foundation projects has not been relayed, FISD Superintendent Thad Roher said these projects will spend the remain- ing 2020 bond funds that were listed under “priority maintenance projects.” According to district documents, the district has a remaining balance of about $2.4 million for “district-wide priority maintenance” projects.

PISD provides eld experience to university students

University students will gain classroom experience through:

documents. The district will assign qualied mentor teachers to evaluate university students throughout their eld experience. Students are responsible for follow- ing district policies, classroom rules and professional standards. The partnerships come at no cost to the district, according to district documents.

Pearland ISD trustees approved new partnerships with Walden University and Houston Christian University at its Dec. 9 meeting, allowing students to complete eld experience at district schools starting in 2026. The overview The agreements formalize four-ve year part- nerships with each university, according to district

Observing certied district teachers

Completing demonstration teaching hour

Assisting with instruction

Observing lessons

SOURCE: PEARLAND ISDCOMMUNITY IMPACT

BENCHMARK - REMBRANDT - LASHBROOK - WILLIAM HENRY - CITIZEN - BULOVA - SEIKO - LEVIAN

FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FOR 93 YEARS! Frank’s & Son’s Jewelry

FINE JEWELRY & WATCHES REPAIRS ON SITE We Buy Gold and Coins! 6005 FAIRMONT PKWY. PASADENA 281-998-GOLD

$ 10

WATCH BATTERY One per person. Not valid with other offers. Some restrictions apply. Expires 2/15/2026

PEARLAND FRIENDSWOOD MANVEL EDITION

Education

BY CATHERINE WHITE

Alvin College tops Texas public colleges in return on investment

Alvin College has been ranked Texas’ top public institution for student return on investment, or ROI, which is a measure of gradu- ates’ cumulative earnings minus out-of-pocket education costs over time, according to a Dec. 11 press release from the college. The overview Using 2021–22 academic year data, an analysis by the Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce

found that Alvin College gradu- ates have an estimated return on investment of $276,000 over 10 years after graduation, calculated as cumulative earnings minus out-of-pocket education costs. Researchers noted that several factors can influence an institu- tion’s ROI, including graduation rates, the availability of STEM-re- lated degree programs and the number of students receiving financial aid.

Find your perfect place to call home at Pomona!

10 Year ROI for Houston colleges X Ranking out of 90 Texas public institutions

Degrees obtained

1 Alvin College Associate's

10 College of the Mainland

$236,000 ROI 23 San Jacinto College Associate's 46 Houston Community College Associate's

Associate's

$276,000 ROI

$251,000 ROI

THE HOMES: • From the mid $300s • Tour our model home:

$222,000 ROI 40 Lone Star College System Associate's

41 University of Houston Bachelor's

$217,000 ROI

$222,000 ROI

5526 Mandarin Heights Street, Manvel, TX 77578

75 University of Houston - Downtown Bachelor's $180,000 ROI

90 Texas Southern University Bachelor's $89,000 ROI

68 University of Houston - Clear Lake Bachelor's $192,000 ROI

THE COMMUNITY: • Beautiful master-planned community off Highway 288 • 1,000-acre property with parks, porch clubhouse, pools, lakes • Escape city life while still being connected to it all

NOTE: DATA SHOWN REFLECT RANKINGS FROM THE 90 TEXAS PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS EVALUATED WITHIN A LARGER NATIONAL STUDY SOURCE: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION/COMMUNITY IMPACT

San Jacinto College gets new leaders

chosen. Central Campus Provost Van Wigginton retired Dec. 9. Rhonda Bell has been named Central Campus provost and assumed the role Dec. 1. At the Generation Park Cam- pus, Christopher Wild has been appointed provost, replacing Destry Dokes, and assumed the role Jan. 1.

The San Jacinto College trustees approved new leadership after recent retirements on the Strategic Leadership Team. The details Deputy Chancellor and College President Laurel Williamson will retire in August. Alexander Okwonna will remain North Cam- pus provost until a replacement is

FIND YOUR HOME

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY HALEY VELASCO

2 Pearland Parkway intersection improvement

BARRY ROSE RD.

MCHARD RD.

SHADOW CREEK

MCHARD RD.

Friendswood Project: Pearland Parkway at Barry Rose Road dual left-turn lanes and dedicated right-turn lanes will be installed to increase traffic volume capacity and improve traffic congestion. Update: As of October, the project is currently in its design phase. • Timeline: Construction is slated to start in April 2026 with a completion in May 2027. • Cost: $1.52M • Funding sources: outside transportation funds, including federal and state grants

Pearland

BUSINESS CENTER DR.

521

W. BROA D W A

518

WALNUT ST.

M AGNOLIA PKWY.

288

BAILEY A V E .

Ongoing projects

MCKEEVER RD.

3 Shadow Creek Parkway intersection improvements Project: The project consists of nearly 10 intersection improvements at Shadow Creek Ranch to address traffic congestion. Update: Construction began on Oct. 1. • Timeline: slated completion by Dec. 31 • Cost: $9.04M • Funding source: tax increment reinvestment zone reimbursable debt

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

2351

Update: About 90% of design submittals have been received and are being reviewed by city staff and the Texas Department of Transportation. TxDOT is bidding, constructing and managing the project. • Timeline: Construction slated to start in 2028 with a completion in 2030. • Cost: $21.4M • Funding sources: H-GAC, bonds and other sources

Upcoming projects

6 1 Mykawa Road widening Project: Construction on Mykawa Road will consist of roughly 3 miles of a four-lane divided boulevard with storm drainage, signals, lighting, landscaping and a 10-foot shared-use path, among other features. Manvel MORRIS AVE.

A NEW YEAR The Highest Standard of Care REQUEST YOUR PERSONAL CONSULTATION TODAY 346.258.5220 | GRANDLIVING.COM LUMINATIONS ® Memory Care

BUCK STEVENS

Get Involved. Show Your Support. Help Shape Pearland’s Future.

Support Buck Stevens’ campaign for Mayor by getting involved today. Sign up to volunteer, stay informed, and join fellow supporters at our upcoming fundraising events: Dinner Fundraiser Saturday, January 31 6:00 p.m. Billy’s Hall PRE-PURCHASE TICKETS ONLY. NO TICKETS SOLD AT THE DOOR. No purchase necessary if not eating a meal. Breakfast Fundraiser Wednesday, January 14 7:30 a.m. BJ’s Restaurant

Daily Chef- Prepared Meals

The Grand Spa & Fitness Center

Memory Garden & Sunroom

ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY # 311651

PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD - MANVEL EDITION

Health & wellness

BY RACHEL LELAND & HALEY VELASCO

Health & Wellness Edition 2026

Readers, welcome to your annual CI Health & Wellness Edition! This annual guide highlights opportunities for residents to engage in healthy activities and learn about wellness-related topics in their community. All stories were written by Community Impact’s team of local journalists. In this edition, readers will nd reporting on how neighborhood amenities, parks and recreational areas support physical activity, overall well-being and community connection.

Gold Sponsors

Elitecare Emergency Hospital www.elite24er.com (281) 3377500 Providing families with immediate emergency care from local doctors who care for their patients like they would their own family.

Kelsey-Seybold for Seniors seniors.kelsey-seybold.com 7134428526 Our mission is to help seniors live and age well by making healthcare easier. Our doctors and specialists work together, with imaging and labs in one place, so you get coordinated care and a simpler path to managing your health.

UTMB Health utmbhealth.com (409) 7722222

UTMB Health delivers compassionate, innovative care for every stage of life. Where Purpose Meets Passion—our commitment to healing, education, and research ensures healthier futures for the Bay Area.

For relevant news and daily updates, subscribe to our free email newsletter!

Pearland, Manvel prioritize play for all unanimously approved a contract at its Jan. 5 meeting with Crane Group LLP for the City Hall expansion and Heritage Park project, exceeding $2 million.

Percentage of disabled population, ages 517 in Brazoria County

8% 6% 4% 2% 0%

In an eort to ensure park spaces can be used for all, Pearland and Manvel are prioritizing inclusiv- ity in their upcoming park projects at Indepen- dence and Heritage Parks. The overview On Dec. 8, Pearland City Council approved applying for a $1 million Texas Parks and Wildlife grant for the new playground. Pearland voters approved a $16 million bond in 2023, including $700,000 for an inclusive play space at Independence Park. The Forever Parks Foundation of Pearland, a nonprot organization, is leading a $5 million campaign to cover remaining costs. “Independence Park is our largest space in Pearland,” said Je Webb, president of Forever Parks Foundation of Pearland. “If that’s going to be our key space, then everyone should be able to enjoy it.” Down the road, Manvel City Council

5.8%

The eort for an inclusive playground in Manvel is driven by resident Reaghan Velasquez, who has spina bida and has advocated for accessible play spaces since fth grade. “I’m just proud to represent a community that always gets overlooked … those little things, yes, they’re little, but they mean so much,” Velasquez said. Looking ahead Fundraising for the inclusive Independence Park playground runs through mid-2026, with construc- tion expected by 2029, according city documents. As Heritage Park moves into the construction phase, City Council also plans to launch fundrais- ing initiatives, such as selling personalized bricks and signage, to support the park’s amenities.

3.6%

*2020 DATA IS USED WITH AMERICAN COMMUNITY SURVEY 5YEAR ESTIMATES. ALL OTHER YEARS USE 1YEAR ESTIMATES. SOURCE: U.S. CENSUS BUREAUCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Heritage Park

Independence Park

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY HALEY VELASCO

San Jacinto College’s mental health director discusses student needs In an interview with Community Impact , Robbie Murray, San Jacinto College’s director of mental health services, discussed the current state of mental health among college students. San Jacinto College deployed new measures to assist students in 2022, and there was a 60% increase in students receiving services between academic years, Murray said. How would you describe the current state of mental health among San Jacinto College students? Like many students across the nation, some San Jacinto College students show increased levels of anxiety, depression and stress. These chal- lenges often place additional strain on students’ social-emotional wellbeing and academic success. However, students demonstrate resilience, and an increasing number are seeking resources and support to address their concerns. Many students engage in counseling services to understand and learn ways to cope with daily life struggles they are experiencing. Have you noticed any new or emerging trends in students’ mental health over the past year? Over the past year, there has been a noticeable increase in student anxiety related to academic demands and the current political climate. We have also observed that some students are turning to artificial intelligence as a means of social connec- tion and as a tool to seek mental health support. What stressors are impacting students the most

today—academically, socially or financially? As a college that serves a high number of first generation and economically disadvantaged students, San Jacinto College sees financial stress impacts students the most. Many students are experiencing challenges related to food and housing insecurity, coupled with the costs of educa- tion. Despite these challenges, students continue to actively seek support and utilizing available resources to remain engaged in their academic goals. What factors most influence a student’s social- emotional wellbeing in college? Students need to create or maintain connection to maintain their social-emotional wellbeing in college. Students not only need a connection to the school, but with their family, peers and community that supports them. Is there anything you wish more people knew about the pressures college students face? Our students face many pressures that often intersect—many are balancing work, home and family responsibilities while pursuing their college education. This combination of demands can create significant stress, anxiety and depression, negatively affecting their mental health and, in turn, impacting their academic performance and long-term success. What message do you want to leave with students, families or readers about prioritizing mental health? Mental health is essential for maintaining balance while working toward your goals. Experiencing challenges with your mental health is not a sign of weakness, but a reflection of resilience. As we often remind our students, we cannot effectively take care of others unless we take care of ourselves.

ROBBIE MURRAY, DIRECTOR OF MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES, SAN JACINTO COLLEGE

Some signs a student may be struggling emotionally

Changes in class attendance, academic interest or performance

Loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed

Seeming overwhelmed, irritable, anxious or withdrawn from others

Changes in sleep or appetite

Expressions of hopelessness

SOURCE: SAN JACINTO COLLEGE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

This interview has been edited for length and clarity. For a longer version, visit communityimpact.com .

OPEN HOUSE ENROLLMENT BEGINS FEB 2026 Jan. 25th 2026

An Accredited School in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston

SELL US YOUR OLD LEGO® SETS TO SETS TO MAKE ROOM FOR YOUR NEW BUILDS! SELL US YOUR OLD LEGO® ROOM FOR YOUR NEW BUILDS!

For more than 25 years, St. Helen Catholic School has proudly served our parish and our communitites by educating the mind, heart and spirit. Accredited by the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, TCCB-ED and recently named a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School, we are mission driven to promote high academic standards within a Christ-centered, spiritual environment. • Full Day PK3 and PK4 • Google Platform with 1:1 Chromebooks, grades 4-8 • STREAM (STEM) LAB and classes, K-8 • NJHS Honors and CTE Courses • Numerous enrichment activities after school • Counselor on campus • Intervention Specialist to assist struggling learners Growing Children in "Wisdom, Age, and Grace"

• Dance and Cheer Squad • Athletics Programs • Big/Lil Buddies Program • Spanish 6th-8th • Fine Arts Programs • Religion is infused into every class • Before and After School Care • Weekly School Mass

Located in Pearland Town Center 281-741-0279

Accredited by the Archdiocese of Galveston-Hous- ton and TCCB-ED, and honored as a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School, we promote strong academics in a Christ-centered environment. Faith • Academics • Fine Arts • Technology • Full-Day PK3 & PK4

• Dance, Cheer, Athletics • Spanish (Grades 6–8) • Fine Arts & Religion in All Classes • Before/After School Care • Weekly Mass

• 1:1 Chromebooks (Grades 4–8) • STREAM Lab & Classes (K–8) • NJHS, CTE Courses • On-Campus Counselor & Intervention Specialist

PK3-8th grade

GROWING CHILDREN in Wisdom, Age, & Grace

Main Office: 281.485.2845 | 2213 Old Alvin Rd | Pearland, TX 77581 | Shcssaints.org

PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD - MANVEL EDITION

Health & wellness Fitness guide

BY HALEY VELASCO

Delta Life Fitness - Friendswood Services offered: women-focused workouts with cardio and body sculpting Classes: drop set, tone and torch, and stamina workouts Membership costs: call for pricing

Manvel

Pearland

Aztec Athletics Services offered: warehouse gym with strength and conditioning equipment, and 24/7 availability Classes: strength and conditioning training Membership costs: $45.05/month with a $45.05 signup fee

• 804 S. Friendswood, Ste. 106, Friendswood • www.deltalifefitness.com/friendswood

• 2810 Business Center Drive, Ste. 144, Pearland • www.thedynamicfitness.com

Pearland

Friendswood

TriFitness Gym - Friendswood Services offered: fitness for ages 50+, mobility programs and nutrition support Classes: small group training Membership costs: $249-439/month depending on plan • 607 S. Friendswood Drive, Ste. 17, Friendswood • www.trifitnessgym.com Anytime Fitness Services offered: 24/7 gym access, cardio and strength equipment, and private showers Classes: group workouts, and high-intensity interval training Membership costs: $19.99-25 bi-weekly payments depending on plan • 810 S. Friendswood Drive, Friendswood • www.anytimefitness.com/locations/friendswood- texas-1253

Planet Fitness Services offered: cardio and strength equipment, free fitness training, massage chairs and tanning Classes: small class trainings for core, upper and lower body workouts Membership costs: $29 startup fee, $49 annual fee and $15/month • 11005 Shadow Creek Parkway, Pearland; 2550 Pearland Parkway, Ste. 170, Pearland • www.planetfitness.com Dynamic Fitness Services offered: 24/7 access, cardio and strength equipment, turf, a sauna and kid zone Classes: cycle, Pilates, yoga, kettlebell and cardio classes Membership costs: bi-weekly fees ranging from $7.50, $14.99 and $22.99 depending on membership plan; $7.50 bi-weekly plan has $79.99 enrollment fee

Gold’s Gym Services offered: strength and cardio equipment, personal training Classes: bodypump and yoga Membership costs: $26-34.99/month depending on plan • 130 W. Parkwood Ave., Friendswood • www.goldsgym.com/locations/tx/friendswood The Sanctuary Gym Services offered: workout facility with cold plunge, stretch therapy and a sauna Classes: golf sessions, high-intensity interval training and a kids club Membership costs: $39.99-455.88 depending on plan • 133 W. Parkwood Ave., Friendswood • www.thesanctuarygym.com

UFC Gym Pearland Services offered: cardio and strength equipment, mat room, turf and a youth gym Classes: mixed martial arts training, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and group fitness Membership costs: prices range from $59-129/month depending on plan • 8201 Broadway St. #181, Pearland • www.ufcgym.com/locations/pearland Pilates Powerhouse & Wellness Center Services offered: Pilates, personal training and massage therapy Classes: reformer, zen and lunchtime Pilates Membership costs: $49-396 depending on plan • 3100 Old Chocolate Bayou Road, Pearland • www.pilates-powerhouse.com

• 22217 State Hwy. 6 N., Manvel • www.aztecathleticsgym.com

HOTWORX Services offered: 24-hour infrared fitness studio, 24/7 studio entry and access to virtually instructed, infrared sauna workouts Classes: 30-minute isometric workouts, including Pilates, lower back workouts and stretch sessions Membership costs: $59-79/month depending on plan • 10237 Bailey Road, Ste. 100, Manvel • www.hotworx.net/studio/manvel-hwy288-baileyrd This list is not comprehensive.

Crunch Fitness Services offered: 24/7 access, kid’s program, cardio, weights and machines, locker rooms with showers, online nutrition options, Hydromassage and tanning Classes: group fitness classes, personal training and hot studio classes Membership costs: $9.99-29.99/month (excludes enrollment, recurring processing and annual fees) • 2800 E. Broadway St., Ste. 2800, Pearland • www.crunch.com/locations/pearland

SHADOW CREEK 11023 Shadow Creek Pkwy (281) 977-1027

PEARLAND 10555 Pearland Pkwy (713) 987-9205

ALMEDA 11130 Gulf Fwy (713) 910-3941

FRIENDSWOOD 3126 FM 528 (281) 648-5473

Pearland expands trails and sidewalks to improve walkability From the cover

Major walkways in Pearland

The framework

Sidewalk

Trail

From a morning run to an evening stroll, or alternate modes of transportation, the city of Pearland has made strides to make walkability and access to trails more convenient for residents, city officials said. As of February 2024, Pearland has over 615 miles of sidewalks across the city, as previously reported by Community Impact . As a result of those efforts, projects for trail systems, such as the Shadow Creek connector trail to Clear Creek, are underway, city officials said. This project entails a 21-mile Clear Creek trail, with 8 miles currently built. Paved trails also exist across Pearland, including Shadow Creek Ranch and Green Tee Terrace. Carry Capers, director of Pearland’s Parks and Recreation Department, said the city focuses on trail and sidewalk connectivity “for a couple of different reasons.” “One is health and wellness,” Capers said. “But then also making sure that we have great connections to all of our schools, to our retail centers, to where … you can use a different form of transportation.”

SHADOW CREEK P

MCHARD RD.

BUSINESS CENTER DR.

Pearland

521

W. BROA D W A Y

4 5

518

WALNUT ST.

8 7

M AGNOLIA PKWY.

BAILEY AVE.

288

MCKEEVER RD.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

Landmarks

2351

1 Buc-ee's

5 Walmart Supercenter

9 Costco Wholesale

2 West Pearland Library

6 Silverlake Village

10 Glenda Dawson High School

MORRIS AVE.

Manvel

3 West Pearland Community Center

7 Pearland Town Center

11 Barbara Cockrell Elementary

4 H-E-B plus!

8 Shadow Creek High School

12 Pearland High School

SOURCE: CITY OF PEARLAND/COMMUNITY IMPACT

The funding source

What the experts say

In 2023, Pearland voters approved a roughly $181 million bond package—including more than $26 million for streets, bridges and sidewalks, which included over $15 million for sidewalk gap infill and replacements. Another portion of the bond allocated $33 mil- lion for parks and recreational improvements that include trail and sidewalk connections, according to city documents. Since the bond’s approval, officials have addressed sidewalk hazards and are now focusing on filling gaps near schools, trails and shopping centers, Pearland’s Public Works Director Lorenzo

Rapid suburban growth can make walking between homes, shops and services difficult, but revitalized town centers and historic downtowns can help, said Mandi Chapa, a lecturer at the Rice University School of Architecture. Pearland’s Old Town revitalization plan, adopted in September, will add nearly 8 miles of sidewalks and shared-use paths, Community Impact previously reported.

Wingate said. Large trail projects, such as the Clear Creek trail, rely heavily on outside funding, Wingate said. Outside funding can consist of grants the city applies for, partnership funds with the state and counties, such as Harris County, and congressional dollars, Wingate said. “There’s always a funding challenge,” Wingate said. “Sometimes we have to dedicate some funds to sidewalks, sometimes that goes to streets … and we let [City] Council … help us determine what direction we go in whenever we make those decisions.”

“Fast growth can leave cities disconnected, mostly because developments are coming up in different parts of the city, and that rapid growth oftentimes doesn’t allow cities to … think through different transportation networks.” MANDI CHAPA, LECTURER, RICE UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF ARCHITECTURE

Funding for major trails in Pearland

Remaining balance/contingency

Funding from other sources

$2.3M $189.9K

Shadow Creek Ranch trail Shadow Creek Ranch trail, Phase 2 Green Tee Terrace trail Clear Creek trail

$2.2M $4.9M $10.8M

$60.6K

$1.7M

$1.8M

SOURCE: CITY OF PEARLAND/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY HALEY VELASCO

Zooming out

Looking ahead

Pearland’s path forward on walkability focuses on building out missing links, city officials said. City staff are using the Multimodal Master Plan, which is a network map for walking and biking, and the Clear Creek Trail Master Plan, which focuses on the Clear Creek trail corridor, to guide where sidewalks and trails go next, Capers said. New developments must also include sidewalks and connect to neighboring areas, Capers said. “Probably three-quarters of the city … has a really good, strong sidewalk network,” she said. “The other quarter, which is in the older part of Pearland, we would have to start looking at adding sidewalks there.”

which broke ground in April 2024, is underway on sidewalks, trails and public spaces, Faulkner said. In Manvel, walkability is “less than ideal,” Manvel Mayor Dan Davis said. While roughly 120 miles of sidewalks and trails exist, Davis noted gaps exist between older neighbor- hoods and new developments. Manvel officials plan to add more gravel and multi- use trails along Chocolate and Mustang bayous. 45 MCHARD RD. WALNUT ST.

In Friendswood, city officials call the city “some- what walkable,” with neighborhood and downtown access, but it is largely car-centric, Friendswood Communications Director Glenda Faulkner said. Friendswood residents often request new side- walks along FM roads, plus more trails and pedes- trian bridges to improve connections across Clear Creek, Faulkner said. Construction at the Friendswood City Center, 518 MCHARD RD.

Pearland

W. BROA D W A

Friendswood

M AGNOLIA PKWY.

288

MCHARD RD.

Current major walkways Sidewalk Trail

ARD RD.

Pearland

Manvel

W. BROA D W A

518

WALNUT ST.

2351

Upcoming projects

M AGNOLIA PKWY.

HOPE VILLAGE RD.

FM 518 sidewalk: planning phase as of December Sidewalk, enhanced pedestrian crossings on Broadway Street at Pearland Parkway: expected completion in February Shadow Creek to Clear Creek trail connection: expected completion in 2026 Shadow Creek Parkway improvements: construction underway through 2026 Bailey Road expansion for shared-use path: construction underway through 2026 Hughes Road expansion with sidewalk elements: construction slated to begin in April Mykawa Road widening with shared- use path: currently in design phase with construction in 2027

Friendswood

BAILEY A V E .

FRIENDSWOOD LINK RD.

MCKEEVER RD.

2351

Walk and bike scores

Walk score

Bike score

Bike score categories 0-24: very car-dependent for biking 25-49: minimal bike infrastructure 50-69: somewhat bikeable 70-89: very bikeable

Walk score categories 0-24: car-dependent 25-49: still largely car- dependent 50-69: somewhat walkable 70+: very walkable

SOURCE: CITY OF PEARLAND/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Pearland Friendswood Manvel Houston

SOURCE: WALK SCORE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

55+ Luxury Living Opens January 2026 in League City! Comfort. Community. Carefree Living. Now accepting applications! Call now to reserve your spot today!

(832) 916-7708 www.themagnolialiving.com 540 Hobbs Rd. League City, TX 77573

PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD - MANVEL EDITION

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16-17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32

communityimpact.com