Lake Houston - Humble - Kingwood Edition | September 2025

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Lake Houston Humble

Kingwood Edition VOLUME 10, ISSUE 5 SEPT. 30OCT. 28, 2025

2025 Voter Guide

‘Northpark Needs You’ Business owners along Northpark Drive have said recent construction along the roadway, although needed, has sometimes resulted in restricted access to their storefronts. A new campaign launched by two local chambers aims to provide relief by encouraging customers to do business in the Northpark Drive area. (Raphael Fernandez/Community Impact)

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Also in this issue

Impacts

Page 6

Check out Kingwood’s newest spot for fajitas, margaritas

Education Page 14 See what Humble ISD’s property tax rate for FY 2025-26 will be Page 19 Plan to attend these fall events across the Lake Houston area Events

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Impacts

LAKE HOUSTON WILDERNESS PARK

FORDRD.

4 Panda Express The eatery oers an array of American-style Chinese food options, including orange chicken, black pepper steak and honey walnut shrimp. • Opened Aug. 17

N O R T H P A R WOODLAND HILLS DR.

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SORTERS MCCLELLAN RD.

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• 18020 Hwy. 59, Humble • www.pandaexpress.com

Kingwood

5 La Dolce Nail Spa The salon oers manicures and pedicures, eyelash extensions, eyebrow tinting and waxing services. • Opened in August • 10521 N. Sam Houston Parkway E., Ste. 140, Humble • www.ladolcenailspahumble.com 6 Bath & Body Works The fragrance retailer specializes in aromatherapy and oers products ranging from three-wick candles to 7 BioLife Plasma Services The company compensates donors for their plasma, which is then used to help patients in need. • Opened Aug. 30 • 9785 FM 1960 Bypass Road W., Humble • www.biolifeplasma.com 8 McKay at Will Clayton Logistics Center The Class A distribution center is designed to accommodate one to three tenants with spaces ranging from 50,000 to 171,000 square feet and features 4,360 square feet of oce space. • Completed in August • 9456 McKay Center Drive, Humble • www.tritenre.com/portfolio/mckay-road liquid hand soaps. • Opened Sept. 20 • 6721 FM 1960 E., Humble • www.bathandbodyworks.com Fur-Vana Mobile Pet Spa The mobile pet grooming business oers curbside services for dogs, cats, puppies and kittens at customers’ homes in the Lake Houston area. Appointments can be booked by calling 832-433-0669. • Opened July 19

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UPPER LAKE DR.

LAKE HOUSTON

3 7

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11B

N. HOUSTON AVE.

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W. LAKE HOUSTON PKWY.

TIMBER FOREST DR.

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MCKAY CENTER DR.

MCKAY DR.

WILL CLAYTON PKWY.

Atascocita

ASSAY ST.

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MAP NOT TO SCALE

2 Tacos El Sabor Callejero The restaurant serves a variety of Mexican dishes including burritos, quesadillas, tortas and quesabirrias made with a variety of meats. • Opened Aug. 26 • 1310 Northpark Drive, Kingwood • www.elsaborcallejero.com 3 Black Rock Coee The Oregon-based coee chain oers premium roasted coees, teas, smoothies and energy drinks. • Opened Sept. 5 • 9437 FM 1960 Bypass Road W., Humble • www.br.coffee

Now open

1 Hacienda Los Arcos Locally owned by Martin Gurrusquieta Sr. and his sons Martin Gurrusquieta Jr. and Jesse Gurrusquieta, the restaurant oers a menu of Tex-Mex dishes including fajitas and enchiladas as well as a full bar that serves handcrafted margaritas and cocktails. In addition to indoor seating, the restaurant also features an outdoor patio. • Opened Sept. 1 • 4625 Kingwood Drive, Kingwood • Facebook: Hacienda Los Arcos Kingwood

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In the news

Coming soon

9 QDOBA Mexican Eats Owned by franchisee Chad Owaida, the restaurant will oer signature and customizable burritos, bowls, tacos, quesadillas, nachos and salads. • Opening this fall • 7405 FM 1960 Road E., Ste. 210, Humble • www.qdoba.com 10 J. Jill The women’s clothing store oers sizes extra small through 4X with regular, petite and tall options. • Opening this fall • 780 Kingwood Drive, Kingwood • www.jjill.com

13 Top 10 Cigars The business celebrated its 10th anniversary on Aug. 14. Top 10 Cigars oers a premium selection of cigars and cigar accessories, and features a lounge area. • 9502 N. Sam Houston Parkway E., Ste. 111, Humble • www.top10-cigars.com 14 Dirty Dough The bakery marked one year since opening in Kingwood in May. Dirty Dough serves layered and lled cookies, which can be bought in-store or ordered in advance for pick-up or delivery. • 4562 Kingwood Drive, Kingwood • www.dirtydoughcookies.com Community Impact Community Impact celebrates 20 years as a company in September. Founded in Pugerville, owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched the rst Community Impact newspaper in the Round Rock-Pugerville market in September 2005 with a cover story about the rst toll roads in the Austin area. Today, the company has more

15 Lupo Cae In June, the cafe extended its hours to oer dinner service Tuesday-Saturday from 5-9 p.m. Dubbed “Lupo at Night,” dinner service menu items include seafood such as oysters, crab cakes, salads and lobster carbonara as well as cocktails, beer and wine. • 250 Assay St., Ste. 100B, Houston • www.lupohtx.com 16 ArborTrue In August, the company expanded its oerings to include landscaping services in the Greater Houston area—including in the Lake Houston area. • 808 Russell Palmer Road, Ste. 262, Kingwood • www.arbortrue.com than 200 employees supporting 40 hyperlocal editions in Texas, printing and distributing more than 2.5 million newspapers a month. Community Impact has a strong print and digital presence, including a daily email newsletter, to serve readers with free news and help local businesses thrive. • www.communityimpact.com

In the news

11 Humble ISD District ocials hosted a dedication ceremony Sept. 10 for a new outdoor obstacle course and tness area at Kingwood Middle School, and on Sept. 17 for a new “Treasure Island”-themed playground at Pine Forest Elementary. Both projects are part of the district’s $775 million bond package approved by voters in May 2022, and are open to the public when school is not in session. • A Kingwood Middle School, 2407 Pine Terrace Drive, Kingwood; B Pine Forest Elementary, 19702 W. Lake Houston 12 Stetsons Nightlife The country music dance hall celebrated its 25th anniversary in Humble this year, owners Jason Smith and Josh Anguiano conrmed. In addition to country music, the venue hosts theme nights featuring dierent music genres, and also oers pool, shueboard, darts Parkway, Atascocita • www.humbleisd.net

and free dance lessons. • 19304 Hwy. 59, Humble • www.linktr.ee/stetsonsnl

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Election

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Voter Guide

Dates to know

Oct. 20: First day of early voting Oct. 24: Last day to apply for ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) Oct. 31: Last day of early voting Nov. 4: Election Day and the last day to receive ballot by mail (or Nov. 5 if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. at location of election)

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Harris County residents can cast their ballot at any polling location during early voting or on election day. Visit www.harrisvotes.com for polling locations.

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Only candidates in contested elections are included. Go to county election websites for information on uncontested races.

KEY: D Democrat G Green R Republican I Independent

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Local elections Houston City Council, At-Large Position 4 J. Brad Batteau Dwight A. Boykins Martina Lemond Dixon Ethan Hale Miguel Herrera Al Lloyd Kristal Mtaza-Lyons ( write-in candidate ) Sonia Rivera Adrian Thomas Rogers Alejandra Salinas Sheraz Mohammad Siddiqui Kathy L. Tatum Angie Thibodeaux Jordan Thomas Cris Wright

Sample ballot

Federal elections U.S. Representative, District 18 R Theodis Daniel R Ollie J. Knox R Carmen Maria Montiel R Carter Page R Ronald Dwayne Whitfield

D Feldon Bonner II D Amanda Edwards

PAIN RELIEF STARTS HERE! • Back & Neck Pain • Persistent Pain after Surgery • Herniated Discs • Joint/Muscle Pain • Neuropathic/Diabetic Pain • Sciatica

D Stephen Huey D Jolanda Jones D Isaiah R. Martin D Christian Dashaun Menefee D Valencia Williams I Reyna Anderson I Vince Duncan I George Edward Foreman IV G Tammie Jean Rochester

SOURCES: TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE OFFICE, HARRIS COUNTY CLERK'S OFFICE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

More election coverage Candidate Q&As for the U.S. Representative, District 18 election are not included in this issue due to limited space.

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To read these additional Q&As and for more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

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Election

BY HANNAH NORTON

Breaking down the 17 state propositions on the Nov. 4 ballot

Texas voters will decide on 17 proposed amendments to the state constitution during the Nov. 4 election. The propositions, which were adopted by state lawmakers this year, include measures aimed at reducing property taxes, funding water supply projects and creating a state dementia research institute. SOURCES: TEXAS SECRETARY OF STATE, TEXAS LEGISLATURE ONLINE/ COMMUNITY IMPACT DISCLAIMER: AMENDMENT TEXT DOES NOT REFLECT OFFICIAL BALLOT LANGUAGE.

Proposition 6

Proposition 12

Ban on securities transaction taxes HJR 4 would bar lawmakers from imposing taxes on the purchase and sale of financial assets or requiring financial market operators to pay a tax to conduct business.

Judicial oversight SJR 27 would rework the 13-member State Commission on Judicial Conduct to include six judges appointed by the Texas Supreme Court and seven citizens appointed by the governor.

Proposition 1

Proposition 7

Proposition 13

Texas State Technical College funding Senate Joint Resolution 59 would create two new funds to support the Texas State Technical College System, which has campuses statewide. Up to $52 million could be appropriated this year.

Tax exemption for military spouses HJR 133 would allow lawmakers to create a future property tax exemption for the surviving spouse of a veteran who died from an illness related to their military service.

Increasing homestead exemption SJR 2 would raise the property tax exemption on a person’s main residence, known as a homestead exemption, from $100,000 to $140,000. This would apply to taxes charged by public schools.

Proposition 2

Proposition 8

Proposition 14

Ban on capital gains taxes SJR 18 would prohibit the Texas Legislature from imposing any future taxes on capital gains, which is income received from selling an asset. Texas does not currently have such a tax.

Ban on death taxes HJR 2 would prohibit the legislature from imposing future taxes on a deceased person’s estate or an inheritance passed to their heirs. Neither tax currently exists in Texas.

State dementia research institute SJR 3 would allocate $3 billion to create the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas. An additional $300 million would be available for dementia-related research grants.

Proposition 3

Proposition 9

Proposition 15

Tightening bail rules SJR 5 would require judges to deny bail for certain felony offenses, including murder and aggravated assault, if the state demonstrates that a defendant is a flight risk or threat to public safety.

Business tax exemption HJR 1 would exempt up to $125,000 of businesses’ personal property, such as equipment and vehicles, from taxation. Texas business owners currently receive a $2,500 exemption.

Parental rights SJR 34 would add language to the Texas Constitution stating that parents have the right to “exercise care, custody and control” of their children and determine how to raise them.

Proposition 4

Proposition 10

Proposition 16

Water supply funding House Joint Resolution 7 would send $1 billion in sales tax revenue to the Texas Water Fund each year from 2027-47. The state fund was formed in 2023 to finance water projects.

Homes destroyed in fire SJR 84 would allow a future state legislature to create a property tax exemption for someone rebuilding a home that is completely destroyed in a fire.

Requiring citizenship to vote SJR 37 would enshrine in the Texas Constitution that people who are not U.S. citizens may not vote in Texas elections. Only U.S. citizens are currently eligible to vote under state law.

Proposition 5

Proposition 11

Proposition 17

Animal feed tax exemption HJR 99 would allow state lawmakers, in a future legislative session, to create a property tax exemption for stores that sell animal feed.

Exemption for elderly homeowners SJR 85 asks voters to raise the property tax exemption for homeowners who are over 65 years old or have a disability to $200,000. This would apply to taxes charged by public schools.

Border security tax exemption HJR 34 would exempt increases in a property’s value from taxation if the land is along the Texas- Mexico border and the added value is due to the installation of border security infrastructure.

LAKE HOUSTON - HUMBLE - KINGWOOD EDITION

Election

What do you think are the biggest issues right now facing Houstonians, and how would you look into addressing those challenges? Houston City Council At-Large, Position 4

J. Brad Batteau Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

Dwight A. Boykins Occupation & experience:

Martina Lemond Dixon Occupation & experience: CEO and business executive consultant; businesswoman, background in construction and business, former Humble ISD trustee ... www.voteformartina.com

Entrepreneur/small business owner; I previously served six years under two mayors as a Council member for District D. www.dwightboykins.com

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

Affordable housing, fair wages, and public safety. In the past, I actively served residents of Council District D and have the record to prove it. As an at-large member, I look forward to working with city leaders to develop common-sense solutions to these issues that benefit all Houstonians.

The biggest issues are public safety, aging infrastructure, and cost of living. Houstonians deserve safe, quality lives without being taxed out of their homes. I will ensure every hard-earned tax dollar is used wisely, focusing on core services, cutting waste, and investing in projects that deliver real value to residents.

Ethan Hale Occupation & experience:

Miguel Herrera Occupation & experience: College student; UHD Undergraduate Student Government Association, former treasurer/current student- body vice-president www.linktr.ee/herrera4htx

Al Lloyd Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

Student/steering committee of Recall Houston; coordination with community groups, leading a volunteer team, outreach ... www.haleforhouston.com

Income inequality. This manifests in multiple ways, through disparities in transit, drainage, healthcare, clean air, education, economic opportunity. Our water supply is on the verge of collapse, and the problem is being exacerbated by data centers. We should invest in water treatment plants and shut down new data center developments.

The issues that Houstonians are facing are failing infrastructure, flooding, and lack of law & order. I will address these issues by introducing reforms, and incentives to direct funding to critical infrastructure, and improve drainage and flood mitigation.

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

Kristal Mtaza-Lyons Occupation & experience:

Sonia Rivera Occupation & experience: Consultant; 20 years protecting communities from gangs, drugs, and homelessness; 15 years in business, construction, housing www.soniarivera.us

Adrian Thomas Rogers Occupation & experience: Attorney/police officer; advocate, public safety, legal, outreach atrvote@gmail.com

Executive director, Houston Strong Children Services; entrepreneur; workforce development; public health advocate www.kristalforhouston.com

Houston’s biggest challenges are poverty, housing, safety, wages, and infrastructure and they are all tied to workforce development. I will drive apprenticeships, livable-wage jobs, and employer accountability for tax breaks, while linking housing policy to income growth. By expanding opportunity, training locals to build resilient infrastructure, and strengthening safety through jobs ...

Houstonians face rampant criminal activity, a lack of affordable housing, and limited access to healthcare. I will back law enforcement, cut red tape to expand housing options, and support community-based healthcare solutions that put families first. My focus is on safety, stability, and opportunity without higher taxes or bigger government.

Public safety is a top concern. To combat rising crime, I’ll advocate for smarter use of technology, such as expanded video surveillance, and enhance community partnerships so that law enforcement can respond more effectively. Supporting our vulnerable populations, including juveniles, seniors, and people experiencing homelessness, is also essential.

Alejandra Salinas Occupation & experience: Attorney; stopped Republican efforts to overturn Harris County elections; challenged political gerrymandering and ... www.alejandrasalinas.com

Sheraz Mohammad Siddiqui Occupation & experience: Small business owner/trader; volunteer with flood relief efforts; coordinated food drives; recipient of Presidential Volunteer Service Award 832-879-1439

Kathy L. Tatum Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

Public safety, affordable and reliable city services, and infrastructure. I will work closely with the city controller to monitor the efficiency and effectiveness of city programs and services, and with the administration to generate new sources of revenue, including investing in grant writers to secure more nonprofit and foundation funding.

The biggest issues are public safety, flooding and affordability. Houstonians struggle with safety concerns, infrastructure gaps and rising costs. I will address these challenges by allocating and long-term solutions. Collaborate with agencies and partners and ensure resources reach communities creating a safer, stronger and more affordable Houston.

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY KEVIN VU

Angie Thibodeaux Occupation & experience: National community organizer; HBCU graduate; 20 years as corporate executive; spent 15 years in advocacy & community organizing www.adthibodeaux.com

Jordan Thomas Occupation & experience: Power grid infrastructure developer; chief of staff: Amanda Edwards & Letitia Plummer; board of directors: Link Houston & ACLU TX www.votejordanthomas.com

Cris Wright Occupation & experience: Business advisor & strategist; former local government reporter, business advisor, entrepreneur and public speaker www.catchcris.com/joincris

Access to affordable housing inventory and excessive rents, along with safe streets and neighborhoods. Partnering with our law enforcement officers and ensuring that residents are not only aware of the issues that plague our neighborhoods but also know how to take preventative measures is crucial.

Three of the biggest issues are housing affordability and displacement, extreme weather (especially flooding and heat), and public safety in its broader sense. To address housing, I propose reforms like transferring vacant MRA lots to community land trusts, strengthening the affordable housing trust fund, and building a comprehensive housing plan …

I’ll modernize city processes, software, and training so residents can easily navigate government and influence decisions because the people, not bureaucracy, should be the city’s decision-makers. I’ll also elevate microbusinesses as a workforce development strategy— bringing mobile advising into neighborhoods and offering programs for steady-income ventures, not just high-growth or B2G.

Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity. For more election coverage, go to www.communityimpact.com/voter-guide.

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LAKE HOUSTON - HUMBLE - KINGWOOD EDITION

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LAKE HOUSTON WILDERNESS PARK

Education

Transportation

BY HANNAH BROL CONTRIBUTIONS BY WESLEY GARDNER & HANNAH NORTON

BY HANNAH BROL

FORD RD.

OLD SORTERS RD.

Humble ISD trustees approve flat tax rate for FY 2025-26

SORTERS MCCLELLAN RD. Update: This project is in the design phase, Peng said. • Timeline: starting construction in the fourth quarter of 2025 • Cost: $400,000 • Funding source: Harris County Precinct 3 4 Timber Forest Drive, Greens Road traffic signal Project: A new traffic signal will be installed at Timber Forest Drive and Greens Road. Update: This project is in the design phase, Peng said. • Timeline: starting construction in 2027 • Cost: $650,000 • Funding source: Harris County Precinct 3 1960

Upcoming projects

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1 Woodland Hills, Teakwood Spring drives traffic signal Project: A new traffic signal will be installed at Woodland Hills Drive and Teakwood Spring Drive. Update: This project is in the design phase, said Jeannie Peng, communications manager for Harris County Precinct 3, via email Sept. 17. • Timeline: starting construction in 2027 • Cost: $650,000 • Funding source: Harris County Engineering Dept. 2 West Lake Houston Parkway Sidewalk, Phase 2 Project: Sidewalks will be constructed along West Lake Houston Parkway from Aerobic Avenue to FM 1960. Update: Peng said Precinct 3 officials are evaluating the sidewalk program and funding to determine which projects, including this one, will move forward. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: TBD • Funding source: TBD 3 Will Clayton Parkway Sidewalk Project: Sidewalks will be constructed along Will Clayton Parkway from Tabor Brook Drive to Garbit Drive.

Kingwood

Property owners within Humble ISD’s boundaries can expect a flat tax rate for the upcoming fiscal year 2025-26. Two-minute impact HISD trustees unanimously voted to approve a tax rate of $1.1052 per $100 valuation for FY 2025-26 during the Sept. 9 board meeting. The approved tax rate is the same rate that was approved for FY 2024-25 and includes $0.7552 for the local maintenance and operations fund and $0.35 for debt service, bonded indebtedness and interest and sinking fund. “That’s the same tax rate as last year,” board Secretary Robert Scarfo said during the meeting. “So we ... didn’t go and ask for a change to that, so I think that’s a good thing.” While HISD’s tax rate will remain flat, some property owners may see increased tax bills due to rising property values, which are determined by the Harris Central Appraisal District.

Something to note Several state legislative changes in recent years have affected school district tax rates statewide. In November, voters statewide will also have the opportunity to approve or reject constitu- tional amendments that would increase property tax exemptions. Senate Bill 4 would raise the statewide homestead exemption from $100,000 to $140,000, while Senate Bill 23 would give homeowners who are over 65 years old or have a disability a $200,000 exemption. Both exemptions would only apply to taxes levied by public schools. In case you missed it Trustees first discussed a proposed tax rate of $1.1052 during the June 17 board meeting when they approved HISD’s budget and compensation plan for FY 2025-26. The adopted general fund budget for FY 2025-26 includes $543.6 million in expenses and $543.7 million in revenue.

Humble ISD tax rates (per $100 valuation) $1.50

TOWNSEN BLVD.

$1.00

$1.3389

UPPER LAKE DR.

$1.1075

$1.1052

EASTEX FREEWAY FEEDER RD.

$0.50

F I RST ST.

TIMBER FOREST DR.

1960

Recently completed

AEROBIC AVE.

Humble

TABOR BROOK DR.

GREENS RD. Historical Pedestrian Bridge Metro Park-and-Ride. Update: The project has been completed, Peng said. • Timeline: March 2024-third quarter of 2025 • Cost: $1.5 million • Funding sources: Harris County Precinct 3, Texas Department of Transportation ALDINE BENDER RD. 5 Townsen Park-N-Ride Multimodal Connector Project: A concrete hike-and-bike trail was constructed to connect the Townsen Park-and-Ride to the I-69

WILL CLAYTON PKWY.

Fiscal year

MADERA RUN PKWY.

GARBIT DR.

SOURCE: HUMBLE ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

LAKE HOUSTON

Atascocita

The approved FY 2025-26 compensation plan raised HISD’s starting teacher salary to $66,000, and gave experienced teachers on average raises of 3%-7%. Most non-teaching staff members also received 3% average raises.

W. LAKE HOUSTON PKWY.

TEAKWOOD SPRING DR.

GREENS RD.

PORTER 23611 Hwy 59 (281) 354-0733 HUMBLE 19322 US-59 (281) 540-7202

KINGWOOD 1420 Kingwood Dr (281) 359-7115 ATASCOCITA 7034 FM 1960 E (281) 812-3100

‘Northpark Needs You’ From the cover

The impact

The overview

Ray Hernandez, Partnership Lake Houston presi- dent and CEO, cited traffic delays among the biggest concerns business owners have voiced. “One of the most significant issues is the disruption of normal traffic flow,” Hernandez said. “The delays and detours are making it difficult for their clients or customers to access their favorite businesses, especially during peak hours.” While Skero said traffic conditions have improved since construction began in April 2023, the lane closures are still impacting the amount of time his drivers spend transporting products between his store and a nearby distribution center. “We have a distribution center right by us, [and our drivers used to be able to make the drive] in less than two minutes,” Skero said. “[Now,] it takes my employees 20-25 minutes to get to my other center. We do that somewhere around 30 times a day.” Megaton Brewery co-owner Chris Sarvadi said the brewery has seen a roughly 30% drop in business since construction began. “It’s not really sustainable,” Sarvadi said, noting the brewery is in the process of creating online options for its customers to help offset the decline. Grayson Gerloff, general manager of Kenneth’s Car Care, said while he believes the road improve- ments are necessary, the reduction in business has forced the company to reduce its workforce. “We’re seeing a pretty significant drop in busi- ness,” Gerloff said. Still, Gerloff said he believes a lot of the reports of heavy traffic have been overstated. “There’s traffic, but during the day it’s pretty clear,” Gerloff said. Skero expressed similar optimism, noting traffic along Northpark Drive has already improved. “Even from a few months ago, it’s gotten much better,” Skero said. Since construction on the Northpark Drive overpass project begin in April 2023: $750,000 is how much Skero’s Furniture & Mattress was required to borrow to stay operational after losing more than $1 million in sales. $700,000 is how much Kenneth’s Car Care lost as they reported business has dropped by approximately 30% . 30% is roughly how much revenue has dropped for Megaton Brewery.

& Mattress, said construction has made it dicult for customers to access his store. “When construction started, nobody wanted to get on Northpark [Drive],” Skero said. “It’s gotten better, but it’s still rough.” Construction on the roughly $149.6 million two-phase project along Northpark Drive began in April 2023 and is expected to be substantially completed in 2030, said Ralph De Leon, Lake Houston Redevelopment Authority and Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone No. 10 administrator. De Leon said the project aims to alleviate congestion, enhance accessibility and increase safety in the Kingwood area. He added that the overpass will provide an additional evacuation route in the case of future ooding.

Businesses along Northpark Drive have been struggling to maintain in-store trac as a major construction project along the road- way continues. To help raise awareness and drive business toward the area, local chambers of commerce Partnership Lake Houston and the Greater East Montgomery County Chamber banded together to launch the “Northpark Needs You” campaign in late July, which local business owners have said is already having a positive impact. While conceding the roadway improvements and the addition of the overpass are needed, several business owners on Northpark Drive have reported declining revenue in the two years since the project began. Daron Skero, owner of Skero’s Furniture

Project overview

1 Northpark Drive overpass project Project: A new overpass will be constructed over the Union Pacific Corp. railroad tracks and Loop 494 as well as west- and eastbound frontage roads beside the overpass. Northpark Drive will also be widened between Hwy. 59 and the overpass. • Timeline: April 2023-fourth quarter of 2026

2 Northpark Drive reconstruction project

Project: Northpark Drive will be widened from four to six lanes between Woodland Hills Drive and Russell Palmer Road. Both bridges at the Kingwood Diversion Ditch and the crossing at Ben’s Branch will be replaced, and drainage infrastructure will be installed along the roadway. • Timeline: October 2028-2030

Cost: $149.6 million

Funding sources: city of Houston, TIRZ 10/LHRA

N O R T HP A RK D R .

494

UNION PACIFIC CORP. RAILROAD

Business owners along Northpark Drive in Kingwood have said traffic as a result of construction is largely dependent upon the time of day motorists travel along the roadway.

COURTESY BOB REHAK/REDUCEFLOODING.COM

SOURCES: SKERO’S FURNITURE & MATTRESS, KENNETH’S CAR CARE, MEGATON BREWERY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SOURCES: LAKE HOUSTON REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, TAX INCREMENT REINVESTMENT ZONE NO. 10COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY WESLEY GARDNER

Get involved

What’s next

“Business is starting to pick up a little bit, for sure, and I know the work the chambers are doing is absolutely helping.” DARON SKERO, SKERO’S FURNITURE & MATTRESS OWNER “We see exaggerated reports of the disruption of traffic patterns along Northpark [Drive] and some of those comments ... kind of overstate the disruption.” RAY HERNANDEZ, PARTNERSHIP LAKE HOUSTON PRESIDENT AND CEO

GEMCC President and CEO Mark Linabury said a major focus of the “Northpark Needs You” cam- paign is to drive in-person traffic back to stores and restaurants that rely on those customers. “You’re going to see more of your retail type businesses that are affected,” Linabury said. Linabury said the two chambers created a webpage—www.northpark.biz—containing a directory that allows visitors to view businesses most affected by roadwork. Additionally, Linabury said officials from each of the chambers will continue to post about affected businesses on their respective social media pages. Hernandez said the campaign is also aiming to help raise awareness of the broader effect that struggling businesses on Northpark Drive can have outside of the construction area. “Shoppers may choose to take their dollars to where they [are more easily spent], ... which can create long-term shifts to economic activity,” Hernandez said.

Funded by local taxing entity TIRZ 10, De Leon said the final phase of the project is expected to be substantially completed in 2030 . He noted several measures are currently being implemented to help ease the strain on area businesses. De Leon said construction crews have helped businesses by using quick-set concrete, which he said hardens more quickly than regular concrete. While De Leon noted much of the additional cost associated with quick-set concrete has been offset, he said it was too early to tell whether it will affect the overall cost of the project. Still, Linabury said he hopes the “Northpark Needs You” campaign extends beyond Kingwood residents. “I think the message is actually being received by people who might not have been shopping on Northpark,” he said.

“Consumers just change their normal habit patterns, and I don’t think they realize the effect that, that would have on the businesses.” MARK LINABURY, GREATER EAST MONTGOMERY COUNTY CHAMBER PRESIDENT AND CEO

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LAKE HOUSTON - HUMBLE - KINGWOOD EDITION

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Events

BY JOVANNA AGUILAR

Fall Events Guide

2025

entertainment, a silent auction and costume contests. • Oct. 24, 7 p.m. • $125 (admission) • Humble Civic Center, 8233 Will Clayton Parkway, Humble • www.bloomcommunityservicestx.org Tricks & Treats Among the Trees Head to the trails of the Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center for fall activities, a pumpkin patch and more.

October

Old MacDonald’s Farm Pumpkin Patch The seasonal pumpkin patch also features train rides, pony rides, a petting zoo and photo opportunities. • Daily through Oct. 31, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • $18.65 (admission) • 3203 FM 1960 E., Humble • www.oldmacdonaldsfarmtexas.com Good Shepherd Fall Festival Good Shepherd Episcopal Church’s fall festival will kick off its pumpkin patch season, open through Oct. 31. • Oct. 11, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (fall festival) • Free (admission) • 2929 Woodland Hills Drive, Kingwood • www.goodshepherdkingwood.org

• Oct. 25, 3-6 p.m. • Free (admission) • 20634 Kenswick Drive, Humble • Facebook: Tricks & Treats Among the Trees

Kingwood Oktoberfest This annual event will include performances by the Kingwood High School German Club, German cuisine, local craft beer, face painting and games. • Oct. 18, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. • $10 (adults), $5 (ages 3-12), free (under age 3) • Holy Comforter Lutheran Church & School, 1901 Woodland Hills Drive, Kingwood • www.kwoktoberfest.org

Boofest Kingwood Enjoy a fall festival featuring seasonal shopping, trick- or-treating, free trackless train rides and food.

• Oct. 25, 4-9 p.m. • Free (admission) • Town Center Park, 8 N. Main St., Kingwood • www.thelivableforest.com

Hocus Pocus Fundraising Gala This Halloween-themed gala will feature dinner,

YOUR COMMUNITY AWAITS

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Membership benefits include:

Flexible annual and monthly options Unlimited group exercise classes including aerial yoga Personal training with body composition analysis Programs for all ages including Houston Texans NFL Flag Football and Basketball Safe after school programs that work with your schedule

OCTOBER 11 MAIN STREET, HUMBLE, TX

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LAKE HOUSTON - HUMBLE - KINGWOOD EDITION

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Dining

BY JOVANNA AGUILAR

Crema de Chicharron ($18) is paired with an empanada.

The Trompito ($59) is adobo marinated pork served tables side on a rotating split.

PHOTOS COURTESY LETTY’S AUTHENTIC MEXICAN COCINA

Letty’s Authentic Mexican Cocina honors heritage At Letty’s Authentic Mexican Cocina, the aroma of fresh tortillas and homemade salsas tells a story owner Letty Martinez said reects her heritage. Martinez opened her rst restaurant in October 2024 after opening two bakeries and raising her four children, whose successes, she said, now reect the perseverance that fueled her journey. Staying local following in her mother’s footsteps. “My mother was a restaurant owner, and my entire family was always in the industry,” she said. Craving Mexican food? With a focus on presentation and quality, Martinez said customers can expect an upscale experience in Humble, while enjoying authentic Mexican dishes from dierent regions.

The Fried Mahi Tacos ($25) feature citrus slaw and creamy chipotle.

1960

N. HOUSTON AVE.

“My goal is to create something dierent for my Humble community and to share Mexican culture from all states,” she said. Looking ahead, Martinez said she plans to expand the menu with new additions that reect Mexican culture and is open to collaborations with local organizations.

After working as a pastry chef for The Woodlands Country Club, Martinez said she gained the skills to open her own bakery in Humble, Yummy Tummy, in 2010 before expanding with a second location in New Caney in 2019. Years later, Martinez had the opportunity to fulll her lifelong dream of opening a restaurant

1ST. ST. E.

1005 First St. E., Humble Facebook: Letty’s Authentic Mexican Cocina

LAKE HOUSTON HUMBLE KINGWOOD EDITION

Real estate

Residential market data

Number of homes sold

August 2024

August 2025

-29.82%

+3.13%

+33.33%

+63.64%

-53.06%

77339

77345

99 TOLL

77346

77338

LAKE HOUSTON

77396

77044

77338

77339

77345

77346

77396

77044

Homes sold by price point August 2025 $800,000+

Median home sales price

August

2024

2025

$340,000 $235,000 $305,000 $360,000 $339,495 $298,000

$295,000 $240,000 $293,000 $427,500 $316,500 $275,000

77044

$600,000-$799,999

77338

$400,000-$599,999

77339

185

$200,000-$399,999

77345

<$199,999

77346

77396

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY

Average days on market -17.98% 0%

August 2024

August 2025

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+29.63%

+1.41%

+1.12%

+2.78%

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77044

77338

77339

77345

77346

77396

NOTE: DATA INCLUDES SINGLEFAMILY HOMES, TOWNHOMES AND CONDOS.

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P irate’s C ove Your Hometown Car Wash

We Offer Complete Detailing • Buff • Handwax • Overspray Removal • Upholstery & Carpet Cleaning • Hand Wash $ 30 off Tuesday & Wednesday Only

unlimited car Washes

Monday or Thursday

$ 10 off Complete silver or gold detail package at reg. Price. MUST PRESENT COUPON BEFORE YOU PAY Friday or Saturday only with coupon. e First Mate Up to Captain’s Leather Not valid with any other offer. Vans, SUVs, trucks & large cars extra. Expires 10/30/2025 MUST PRESENT COUPON BEFORE YOU PAY 627

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MUST PRESENT COUPON BEFORE YOU PAY 50 / off o o The First Mate Up to Captain’s Leather Not valid with any other offer. Vans, SUVs, trucks & large cars extra. Detailing not included. Expires 10/30/2025

per month most cars (Reg. $23.99 per wash) per month most cars

MUST PRESENT COUPON BEFORE YOU PAY New Customer Monthly Program (6 mo. min.) Full Service Includes: Vacuum, Windows Cleaned Inside & Out, Dust Inside, Spray Wax & Tire Dress Not valid with any other offer. No refunds will be given for partial periods. Credit Card only. With Coupon. Vans, SUVs, trucks & large cars extra. Expires 10/30/2025

628

630

MUST PRESENT COUPON BEFORE YOU PAY The First Mate Up to Captain’s Leather Not valid with any other offer. Vans, SUVs, trucks & large cars extra. Detailing not included. Expires 10/30/2025

Sunday 50 / off o o

631

629

Hours: Mon-Sat 7:30am - 6pm Sun 7:30am - 5pm

NORTHPARK DR.

2314 Northpark Drive | Kingwood, TX 77339 281-358-9906

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