Conroe - Montgomery Edition | February 2026

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Conroe Montgomery Edition VOLUME 11, ISSUE 11 FEB. 26MARCH 25, 2026

2026 Camp Guide

Race to keep up

New re stations, stang reshaping local re coverage

BY COLE GEE & NICHAELA SHAHEEN

As growth surges across Montgomery County, re leaders said there is urgency in adding stang and station coverage—not just new re trucks. Conroe Fire Chief Paul Sims said con- struction is underway on Fire Station No. 8 to help close response-time gaps on the city’s east side. In Montgomery County Emergency Services District No. 2, Chief Brian Edwards said

the district is trying to “address it as it grows.” Meanwhile, ESD 3 Chief Keith Soliz said rising calls and trac keep pressure on response times despite expanded coverage.

CONTINUED ON 14

Also in this issue

Impacts

Page 6

Learn about a new Montgomery steakhouse

Fire crews across Montgomery County are expanding station networks and stang as population growth drives more emergency calls and stretches response times in fast-developing areas.

Education

Page 18

Read about the 2026-27 calendars for area districts

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PU Co

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CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

Healthy aging is at the heart of everything we do.

That’s why so many seniors are turning to Kelsey-Seybold for Seniors. As your go-to resource for healthy aging, we help you access top-quality coordinated care that meets your changing health needs every step of the way. 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.* Experience healthcare that helps you live your healthiest life. 713-442-8526 (TTY: 711) Calling this number will connect you to a licensed insurance agent.

*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. KSSCIF_1086

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About Community Impact

Community Roots: Founded in 2005 by John and Jennifer Garrett, we remain a locally owned business today. Texas-Wide Reach: We deliver trusted news to 75+ communities across the Austin, Bryan-College Station, Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth and San Antonio metros.

Market leaders & metro team

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

Chrissy Leggett General Manager

Nichaela Shaheen Catherine White Kara Willis Ariel Worthy 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

Lizzy Spangler Editor II

Chelsea Williams Account Executive

Correction: Volume 11, Issue 10 On page 29, the Oscar Johnson Jr. Enrichment & Recreation Center is located at 710 Foster Drive.

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Impacts

• 15295 Hwy. 105 W., Ste. 400, Montgomery • www.instagram.com/tasteandseeboba

3 Christian Brothers Automotive The automotive repair franchise has over 330 locations and services include routine maintenance like tune-ups and scheduled services to specialized repairs, including AC systems, transmissions and electrical diagnostics. • Opened Feb. 9 • 10771 W. FM 1097, Willis • www.cbac.com 4 Backstage Dance Studio Backstage Dance Studio’s new Conroe facility is set to have nearly double the studio’s previous square footage, along with four new dance rooms. • Opened Jan. 3

Willis

Montgomery

1097

LAKE CONROE

SUMMIT PARK DR.

830

2432

1484

149

2854

105

CREEKMIRE CT.

• 2525 Creekmire Court, Conroe • www.backstagedancestudio.net

Conroe

KEENAN CUT OFF RD.

MCCALEB RD.

PINESTRAW VALLEY WAY 9

Coming soon

N. THOMPSON ST.

WILDTREE CREEK

FOSTER DR.

5 New Bridge Fusion Steakhouse and Bar The restaurant’s menu will include steaks, chicken, pork and seafood, with other oerings including interactive darts and a nonalcoholic drink program.

336

3083

PINE MARKET AVE.

WOODFOREST PKWY.

WILDTREE DR.

FISH CREEK THOROUGHFARE

1486

• Anticipated to open by early April • 759 Pine Market Ave., Montgomery • www.newbridgefusion.com

1314

BUCKTHORNE PL.

149

WEST FORK SAN JACINTO RIVER

1488

What’s next PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION

11 7

MILLBEND DR.

242

WINTERBERRY PL.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

6 Handel’s A project to bring a Handel’s ice cream shop to Conroe is slated to begin construction in March and wrap up in May, per a Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation ling.

• 2450 N. Loop 336 W., Conroe • www.hteao.com

Now open

• 4130 FM 1488, Ste. 122, Conroe • https://handelsicecream.com

1 HTeaO Owned by Alicia Magaña, Armando Magaña, Samuel Morales and Veronica Morales, the new Conroe location oers a range of tea, water and coee products. • Opened Jan. 10

2 Taste & See Boba & Sweets The menu includes a wide variety of drinks and beverage choices, with options for coee lovers, traditional tea drinkers and a variety of boba and milk tea avors. • Opened Dec. 1

7 Harper’s Preserve Storage The 102,684-square-foot storage facility was slated to begin construction Dec. 1, 2025, and complete

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

12 Compassion United The nonprot is partnering with Interfaith Community Clinic to expand medical services for those in need. Through this partnership, Interfaith Community Clinic will provide primary care and uninsured patient support services at Compassion United every Thursday from 8:30 a.m.-noon. • 350 Foster Drive, Conroe • https://compassionunited.us Family Promise of Montgomery County The nonprot celebrated 25 years with a gala on Feb. 13, according to a Jan. 12 news release. Family Promise of Montgomery County assists families experiencing homelessness and helps them work toward housing stability. • www.familypromiseofmc.org

Jan. 31, 2027, according to a TDLR ling. The project cost is estimated at $6 million. • 10300 Hwy. 242, Conroe 8 Gloss N’Glam The 2,200-square-foot nail salon was planning to begin construction in February and wrap up in June, per a TDLR ling. • 1450 League Line Road, Bldg. 2, Ste. 150, Conroe

Now open

In the news

9 Wildtree Homes are now being sold in the residential community from Shea Homes located along FM 1486, according to a Feb. 3 news release. The community is planned for around 1,000 homes, and its amenities will include a resort-style pool, recreation center, playground and event lawn. Wildtree is zoned to Magnolia ISD. • 4931 Pinestraw Valley Way, Montgomery • www.wildtreetexas.com

16 Lost Pines Coee Co. The business opened a retail pickup location, co-owners Garth and Kim Olmanson conrmed. The owners said the new space gives customers an easier place to grab fresh-roasted coee beans than the company’s more industrial Tamina roastery. Lost Pines roasts small-batch coee and sells blends, single-origin options and a bourbon barrel-aged coee. • Opened in November • 1150 McCaleb Road, Ste. 600, Montgomery • www.lostpinescoffeeco.com

Closings

13 The Wheel Cafe The cafe located along Longmire Road announced its closure via Facebook on Jan. 18. • Closed in January • 1905 Longmire Road, Ste. A1, Conroe • www.thewheelcafe.com 14 Little Dreamer’s Playhouse Ocials conrmed the indoor playground made the decision to close its establishment by Feb. 27. The closure was announced to its customers via a Facebook

10 Kevin Brady Library and Community Center

The Innovation Space at the Montgomery County Memorial Library System library held a grand opening Feb. 19, ocials conrmed. The space includes a podcast studio that features a digital mixer, professional-grade microphones, individual control panels, as well as editing software provided by Howard Hughes Communities. • 2250 Buckthorne Place, The Woodlands • www.countylibrary.org 11 Habitat for Humanity Montgomery County ReStore The nonprot celebrated the 10th anniversary of its ReStore located along Hwy. 242 during a Feb. 6 event. The furniture and home improvement store helps fund programs at Habitat for Humanity Montgomery County. • 9407 Hwy. 242, Conroe • https://habitatmctx.org/restore

17 The Icehouse Conroe The restaurant closed Feb. 9, restaurant ocials announced via a Feb. 2 Facebook post. The Icehouse Conroe also served as an event space and held concerts. • Closed Feb. 9

post on Jan. 16. • Closed Feb. 27 • 15363 Summit Park Drive, Montgomery • www.littledreamersplayhouse.com

• 1355 N. Loop 336 E., Conroe • https://icehouseconroetx.com

15 Main Street Market Conroe The market, which oered local farmers’ and artisan products from various vendors, announced its closure via Facebook on Jan. 29. • Closed Feb. 7

Francesca’s After 26 years in business, the Houston-based clothing retail chain started the process of liquidating all merchandise and closing all stores in mid-January, according to a letter from company ocials to the Texas Workforce Commission. • Began liquidating Jan. 14 • www.francescas.com

• 301 N. Thompson St., Conroe • www.mainstreetmarketctx.com

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Government

BY LIZZY SPANGLER

Conroe, Montgomery sees growth in population

Conroe and Montgomery area, rising from 189,824 to 238,549 between 2019 and 2024, per the U.S. Census. The ZIP code 77303 saw the largest percentage increase at 39.7%, with the population rising from 20,655 to 28,854. Conroe and Montgomery is also becoming more diverse, per the U.S. Census Bureau. While the percentage of residents who identify as white decreased from 70.5% to 54.5% between 2019 and 2024, the number of people who identify as two or more races or Hispanic or Latino has increased.

The population in Conroe and Montgomery is growing and becoming more diverse, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. On Jan. 29, the U.S. Census Bureau released new five-year data for 2024 as part of its American Community Survey, which represents a five-year estimate of the population across the country from 2020 to 2024. This data compares with the 2019 survey results, which studied the country from 2015 to 2019. The overall population increased 25.7% across the

Conroe, Montgomery ZIP codes

2019

2024

Local demographics*

Black or African American White Hispanic or Latino

Two or more races Other race American Indian or Alaskan Native Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander

77318

77356

77303

77301

Asian

54.5%

105

149

1.8% 1.4% 1.2% 3.7% 0.5%

70.5%

77316

77306

2019 total population: 189,824 2024 total population: 238,549

0.4% 4.4% 5% 1.5%

21.4%

77302

77304

20.8%

12.8%

*ALL CATEGORIES LISTED ARE RACES, EXCEPT FOR HISPANIC OR LATINO, WHICH IS NOT A RACE. HOWEVER, THE PERCENTAGES OF THE RACES LISTED DO NOT INCLUDE HISPANIC OR LATINO RESIDENTS.

0.0005%

0.04%

Population change

Median age ZIP code

2019

2024

2019 31.7 37.6 35.5 34.6 31.7 39.4 45.6

2024 31.4 37.5 33.3 35.1 32.3 41.1 43.1 48.4

+32.6%

50K

+10.5%

77301 77302 77303 77304 77306 77316 77318 77356

+32.8%

+20.7%

40K

+39.7%

30K

+27.5%

+15.5%

+33.3%

20K

10K

77301

77302

77303

77304

77306

77316

77318

77356

Median household income

Education level** High school diploma or higher achieved

2019 2024

Bachelor’s degree or higher achieved 2019 2024

$150K

+19.4%

+15.6%

+50.5%

+9.7%

82.2%

24.7%

$100K

+24.7%

+52.4%

+36.2%

+41.8%

$50K

88%

33.1%

77301

77302

77303

77304

77306

77316

77318

77356

SOURCES: U.S. CENSUS BUREAU 2019 AND 2024 AMERICAN COMMUNITY SURVEY 5-YEAR ESTIMATES/COMMUNITY IMPACT

**BASED ON TOTAL POPULATION AGE 25 AND OLDER

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY NICHAELA SHAHEEN

County approves takeover for Old Conroe Road project

Montgomery County Commis- sioners Court approved an interlo- cal agreement Jan. 29 to take over the Old Conroe Road project from Conroe. What you need to know The agreement shifts sponsor- ship of the project to Montgomery County and outlines how the county will assume control of design documents and contracts so it can push the roadway toward right-of-way acquisition and construction. During discussion, Montgomery County Precinct 2 Commissioner Charlie Riley called it “one of the biggest” off-system projects in Texas and said the county was ready to “start working on the road

today” once approved. Diving in deeper The interlocal agreement covers a proposed extension of Old Conroe Road from Loop 336 to FM 1488. According to prior reporting, the agreement lays out: • Within 45 days of the city execut- ing the agreement, Montgomery County will pay $3.4 million— listed as the county’s “amended share”—toward preliminary design and plans, specifications and estimated costs tied to the project. • After execution, the county will take over contract administration and succeed to the city’s rights under the design documents.

Old Conroe Road project The Old Conroe Road project proposes an extension of the road from Loop 336 to FM 1488, including a new bridge crossing the San Jacinto River and a four-lane road at an estimated total cost of $221.1 million.

TWO LIPS TO TULIPS WINE BAR & FLORAL SHOP

336

SAN JACINTO RIVER

1488

SOURCE: MONTGOMERY COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Montgomery County discusses, lines up next $60M road bond sale

Conroe OKs $500 street closure fee Conroe City Council gave its approval to a new street-closure and special-events fee structure Jan. 22, setting a $500 nonrefund- able application fee as the starting point for events that require closing city streets. The gist Norman McGuire, assistant city administrator and public works director, told the council a typical one-block downtown closure requires review and coordination across multiple city departments, putting the city’s internal cost at about $400 even before factoring in any event-specific needs. McGuire described the $500 as an application fee that covers the city’s baseline review closure event. Organizers may still face additional costs depending on what an event requires.

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Montgomery County commissioners moved Jan. 29 to keep the county’s road bond program moving—approving the paperwork needed to launch the next bond sale and laying out a timeline that could put new construction dollars in precincts by early June. What this means County staff told the court the first round of the road bond program has generated about $130 million so far when combining bond proceeds and interest earnings. Roughly $42.9 million has been spent. To avoid taking on too much debt at once, staff said the county plans to split the next borrowing into two $60 million sales instead of issuing $120 million in a single tranche.

County road bond breakdown

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$130M total generated when combining bond proceeds and interest earnings $42.9M total spent to date $87M program’s cash balance $30M unassigned funding from initial issuance

SOURCE: MONTGOMERY COUNTY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

The specifics The first $60 million issuance is targeted to close in May, and a second $60 million issuance is expected later in 2026. Commissioners also approved a reimbursement resolution meant to keep projects from stalling, allowing the county to cover certain costs upfront if needed and reimburse those expenses later using road bond funds.

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

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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. 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. © 2025 Tri Pointe Homes Texas, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Transportation

BY VANESSA HOLT & LIZZY SPANGLER

Upcoming projects

HIDDEN FOREST RD. LAKE MT.

LAKE CONROE BAY RD.

1 Calvary Road reconstruction Project: Calvary Road will be reconstructed to be four lanes between Lake Conroe Bay Road and I-45. Update: This project is in design, per Montgomery County Precinct 1’s capital projects dashboard. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: $1.01 million • Funding source: Montgomery County road bond funds 2 Cude Cemetery Road reconstruction Project: Cude Cemetery Road will be reconstructed to be four lanes between FM 1097 and FM 830. Update: This project is in design, per Montgomery County Precinct 1’s capital projects dashboard. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: $871,289.54 • Funding source: Montgomery County road bond funds 3 Lone Star Parkway reconstruction Project: Lone Star Parkway will be reconstructed to be a four-lane asphalt road between FM 149 and FM 2854. Update: This project is in design, per Montgomery County Precinct 1’s capital projects dashboard. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: $1.01 million • Funding source: Montgomery County road bond funds 4 Old Plantersville Road reconstruction Project: Old Plantersville Road will be reconstructed to add width between Hwy. 105 and Old Dobbin Road. Update: This project is under review, per Montgomery County Precinct 1’s capital projects dashboard. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: $32,354.24 • Funding source: Montgomery County road bond funds

PLEASANT RD.

142

Willis

1097

LAKE CONROE

Montgomery

ANDERSON RD.

LONE STAR PKWY.

CUDE CEMETERY RD.

2432

830

105

OLD PLANTERSVILLE RD.

1484

OLD DOBBIN RD.

1488

2854

AIRPORT RD.

336

149

242

Conroe

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

1488 Update: As of the most recent information released by TxDOT in late January, the project was 74% complete. • Timeline: Oct. 23, 2023-fourth quarter of 2026 • Cost: $29.11 million • Funding sources: federal, state funds 7 Hwy. 242 widening Project: The Texas Department of Transportation is using existing right of way between FM 1488 and I-45 to widen lanes.

is being reconstructed to add additional roadway width and shoulders. Update: Construction is underway, per Montgomery County Precinct 1’s capital projects dashboard. • Timeline: Construction began Nov. 18, according to a Nov. 17 Facebook post from Precinct 1. • Cost: $2.08 million • Funding source: Montgomery County road bond funds 6 Lake Mount Pleasant Road reconstruction Project: Between FM 1097 and Hidden Forest Drive, Lake Mount Pleasant Road is being reconstructed to add additional roadway width and shoulders. Update: This project is under construction, per Montgomery County Precinct 1’s capital projects dashboard. • Timeline: Construction began the week of Jan. 19, according to a Jan. 20 Facebook post from Precinct 1. • Cost: $4.8 million • Funding source: Montgomery County road bond funds

242

Completed projects

8 Airport Road reconstruction Project: Between Bushy Creek Bridge and FM 1484, Airport Road was reconstructed to add additional roadway width and shoulders. Update: This project is completed, according to the Montgomery County Precinct 1 capital improvement projects dashboard. • Cost: $248,506.76 • Funding source: Montgomery County road bond funds

Ongoing projects

5 Anderson Road reconstruction Project: Between FM 1097 and FM 830, Anderson Road

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CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

Race to keep up From the cover

Diving in deeper

The big picture

With the surging population comes a higher number of emergency calls in the area. Since 2020, the population has increased by around 15%, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Alongside the focus on new stations, officials are looking at staffing as well. Over the past year, both ESDs 2 and 3 have seen an increase in hiring, officials said. Soliz said ESD 3 has 75 firefighters— an increase from 58 in 2022. “Hiring is extremely competitive right now; there are significantly more departments hiring than there were 10 to 15 years ago,” Soliz said. Sims said Conroe faces the same squeeze, with growth and development pushing call volume higher. The department has 151 personnel—up from 142 about four years ago.

Sims said the city is funding Station No. 8 through its capital improvement program. Design and construction total $4.99 million, with $350,000-$400,000 forecast for furnishings and equipment. The station’s engine and related equipment were purchased earlier for about $1 million, putting the all-in price at about $6.4 million. Meanwhile, in ESD 3, Station No. 31 opened in 2023, replacing the former station, which had been there since 1991. Soliz said the number of facilities now are nearly double what they originally had, nearly 30 years ago.

Concrete crews are gearing up for Conroe’s next re station—and city ocials said the new house can’t come soon enough. “I ... believe it will improve our response times and workload distribution,” Sims said. “The longest response times are in the future Station [No.] 8 region and the north end of the city.” Fire Station No. 8 is taking shape on the city’s east side, where new subdivisions and rising call volume have pushed response times longer, Sims said. Sims also said the project is set to be “nearly completed by mid-August.”

Montgomery County fire stations

ESD 1

ESD 2 ESD 3

Conroe Fire Department

Future station

Population change by ZIP code

2019 2024 0 10K 20K 30K 40K 50K

1097

Willis

JOHNSON RD.

+12.2%

77301

149

77302

+15.5%

1097

+39.7%

77303

77304

+32.6%

JACKSON RD.

1486

77306

+33.3%

105

2854

77316

+32.8%

336

Conroe

77318

+27.5%

77356

+20.7%

SOURCE: U.S. CENSUS BUREAU AMERICAN COMMUNITY SURVEY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

SOURCES: MONTGOMERY COUNTY, CONROE FIRE DEPARTMENT, MONTGOMERY COUNTY ESDS 1, 2 AND 3COMMUNITY IMPACT

Also of note

20 seconds citywide, with the longest times on the east side and the north end of Conroe. He expects Station No. 8 to help, but said it will take about a year of calls to measure the impact. Sims said if he could choose one resource to add to the department tomorrow to keep pace with growth, it would be additional fire stations. “Because of our distance, density, call volume and unit availability, which equates to increased response times,” Sims said. “With reduction in response times, this provides better coverage.”

National Fire Protection Association guidance under NFPA 1710 sets a response time benchmark of 5 minutes and 33 seconds from dispatch to arrival 90% of the time—a bar many fast-growing communities miss, Sims said. In ESD 2, Edwards said the average response time runs about 6 minutes. In ESD 3, Soliz said the average is about 6 minutes and 36 seconds, with traffic on FM 2854 slowing units at peak times. The city of Conroe’s challenge shows up in its 90th-percentile data. Sims said CFD’s 2025 dis- patch-to-arrival time sits at about 9 minutes and

Response times

National threshold

5 minutes, 33 seconds

ESD 2

about 6 minutes

ESD 3

6 minutes, 36 seconds

Conroe FD

9 minutes, 20 seconds

NOTE: DATA FOR ESD 1 WAS NOT PROVIDED.

SOURCES: NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION, CONROE FIRE DEPARTMENT, MONTGOMERY COUNTY ESDS 2 AND 3/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COLE GEE & NICHAELA SHAHEEN

Breaking it down

Stay tuned

Call volume also keeps climbing, and it’s reshaping how departments plan stations and equipment, officials said. In ESD 2, calls rose from 3,736 in 2020 to 4,729 in 2022, and reached 5,100 in 2025. In ESD 3, calls jumped from 1,240 in 2020 to 2,236 in 2025. Both chiefs said new stations help when inci- dents stack up. Edwards said Station 54 in Walden added staffing, which lets ESD 2 handle two calls

at once instead of pulling units from downtown Montgomery. When asked about the maintenance of newly built stations, Edwards said newer stations have a lot of features “to allow for safer and more efficient operations.” Soliz said ESD 3’s rebuilt Station 31 added a second staffed truck, keeping response times down when a second call hits that area.

Expansion is on the horizon. Soliz said that ESD 3 plans to break ground on Station 35 in early 2027. Meanwhile, Edwards said ESD 2 is developing a logistics and administration building. Sims said Conroe’s next projects include station improvements in Grand Central Park and a new station in The Woodlands Hills. Community Impact reached out to Montgomery County ESD No. 1 for this story and did not hear back prior to press time.

Fire department call volumes

2020 2022 2025

12K 15K

13,085

Upcoming additions Conroe Fire Station No. 8: substantial completion mid-August ESD 3 Station 35 : break ground early 2027 ESDs 2 & 3: new administration building, Station 36, respectively: timelines TBD

10,866

9,091

0 3K 6K 9K

4,729 5,100

3,736

2,236

1,240 1,858

Conroe Fire Department

ESD 2

ESD 3 SOURCES: CONROE FIRE DEPARTMENT, ESDS 2 AND 3/COMMUNITY IMPACT

NOTE: DATA FOR MCESD NO. 1 WAS NOT PROVIDED.

LIC # 308565/104865

A Higher Standard for Senior Living

Thanks to the reviews of families and residents, and our continued high standard for care, Worthington Manor was named a BEST SENIOR LIVING community by A Place for Mom. Only 1% of communities across the country earn this recognition. We invite you to schedule a tour and learn more to experience Worthington Manor for yourself.

1999 Lakes of Wedgewood Drive, Conroe · worthingtonmanorseniorliving.com Call to Schedule Your Visit (936) 307-0690

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Events

BY JOVANNA AGUILAR

Montgomery County Home & Outdoor Living Show Attendees can meet home improvement contractors and get home improvement ideas. • March 7-8

March

Conroe Senior Expo Attendees can connect with various organizations. • March 3, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. • Free • Lone Star Convention & Expo Center,

• Free (admission and parking) • Lone Star Convention Center, 9055 Airport Road, Conroe • www.texwoodshows.com

9055 Airport Road, Conroe • www.seniorexpousa.com

Texas Independence Day Celebration The downtown activity is designed to celebrate Montgomery’s historic significance and civic pride.

Just Between Friends Resale Event Items being sold include clothing, puzzles and books. • March 5, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., March 6, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., March 7, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., March 7, 5-9 p.m., 6-9 p.m. (early access), March 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. • Free (online tickets), $3 (at door) • 9333 Airport Road, Conroe • https://thewoodlands.jbfsale.com ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ “Jesus Christ Superstar” is loosely based on the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. • March 6-7, March 13-14, March 20-21, 7:30 p.m., March 8, March 15, March 22, 2 p.m. • $21-$30 (admission) • The Owen Theatre, 225 Metcalf St., Conroe • www.playerstheatrecompany.com

• March 7, 2-6 p.m. • Free (admission)

• 14420 Liberty St., Montgomery • www.montgomerytexas.gov

HTX Card Show The HTX Card Show will feature over 250 vendors with sports cards and all-day raffles. • March 21, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., March 22, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (general admission); March 21, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., March 22, 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. (VIP) • $6 (one-day general admission), $10 (two-day general admission), $12 (single-day VIP), $20 (two-day VIP) • Margaritaville Lake Resort Lake Conroe, 604 La Torretta Blvd., Montgomery • www.txcardshows.com

Montgomery Music & Mudbugs Festival The Montgomery Music & Mudbugs Festival will feature several artists, including Eli Young Band and Colt Ford. • March 28, 1-10 p.m. • $10 (general admission, children ages 12 and under), $35 (general admission), $150 (VIP admission), $1,500 (VIP table of 8)

• 1097 McCaleb Road, Montgomery • www.montgomerymusicfest.com

Keating Chevrolet is North Houston’s #1 Chevy store — locally owned in Montgomery County, built on relationships, and proud to support the community we call home.

1100 Interstate 45 S, Conroe, TX 77304 • 936-444-4686 • www.keatingcheverolet.com

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

Education

BY ANGELA BONILLA & COLE GEE

MISD OKs school calendar for 2026-27 Classes for the upcoming 2026-27 school year are set to begin Aug. 12 and end May 27, according to the approved academic calendar by Montgom- ery ISD. The framework The calendar’s development was supported by the MISD District Advisory Committee, which is made up of district staff, community members and parents. Every year, the DAC surveys to get a consensus on priorities for next year’s academic calendar. A majority of committee members—as well as 68% of respondents across multiple surveys—said they wanted MISD’s fall break to be extended to a full week next semester. What they said Superintendent Mark Ruffin emphasized how

Conroe ISD approves 2026-27 calendar Conroe ISD approved a school calendar for 2026-27 with a first day of Aug. 12 and a last day of May 27, 2027. Among the dates in that calendar, Jan. 7, 2027, will be the first day after winter break, and March 29, 2027, will be a special inclem- ent weather make-up day if needed. What they’re saying Hedith Sauceda-Upshaw, the district’s assistant superintendent for teaching and learning, said 75% of parents surveyed preferred three- or four-day weekends throughout the year, and 24% wanted a week off in the fall. “We’ve done our best to produce a calen- dar that still gives [teacher] exchange day options; we need to reward for professional learning,” Sauceda-Upshaw said.

CISD approves Grand Oaks feeder boundaries Conroe ISD trustees on Jan. 20 unanimously approved the feeder attendance boundaries for two new schools in the Grand Oaks High School feeder. The context Board members said the boundary process was a challenge because the area is rapidly developing. “It’s a balancing act since you don’t want to open too soon, but you also don’t want the on-ramp to be so short that you’re at a major capacity at other locations,” board President Misty Odenweller said. What’s next The zoning changes will affect two new schools opening in the feeder zone east of I-45 near the Grand Parkway. Kacy Arnold Elementary School, located at 5175 Woodsons Spring Drive in Spring, is scheduled to open in August and is projected to serve 950

Education foundation to be part of CISD Conroe ISD Education Foundation will now be district affiliated, following approval by the CISD board of trustees at its Jan. 20 meeting. The CISD Education Foundation has served since 2001 as an independent nonprofit, providing financial support through schol- arships for students, grants and educational initiatives, its website states. Why it matters CISD Executive Director of Communications Andrew Stewart said the foundation in October requested the foundation transition to a district-affiliated organization. A letter of intent between the current board and CISD will be signed, along with a joint meeting to make the transition official.

2026-27 calendar highlights:

Elementary zoning scenario chosen

Scenario c2.1

Academic days are extended to 174 days compared to the previous 172 .

Arnold

Birnham Woods

Bradley

Broadway

Ford

Hines

Snyder

Fall break: Oct. 9 will be a staff work day and student holiday, followed by districtwide holidays for all students and staff Oct. 12-16 .

BIRNHAM WOODS DR.

99 TOLL

Kacy Arnold Elementary School

Spring break is set for March 15-19 .

Early release days are set at the end of both the fall and spring semesters on Dec. 19 and May 27 , respectively.

SOURCE: MONTGOMERY ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

grateful the MISD board and educators are for the collaborative work the DAC provides every year. “Developing an academic calendar requires balancing instructional priorities, student and staff needs, and state requirements,” Ruffin said. “The DAC ... delivered a calendar that reflects the voices of our stakeholders while keeping students at the center of every decision.”

SOURCE: CONROE ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

students in kindergarten through sixth grade. Grand Oaks Junior High will also open in August 2027 and is projected to serve 800 students in seventh and eighth grade also in the eastern part of the feeder zone.

CONROE 1304 W Davis (936) 539-8787 NORTH CONROE 18434 Hwy 105 W (936) 582-5410

MONTGOMERY PLAZA 1420 N Loop 336 W (936) 441-7161

WILLIS 9618 FM 1097 (936) 228-0385

Community

Camp Guide

2026

Lake Creek Academy Type: academics / gaming / STEM Ages: kindergarten (academic camp), sixth-12th grade (gaming camp), K-12th grade (STEM camp) Dates: June 15-18 (academic camp), June 15-26 and June 29-July 3 (gaming camp), June 15-July 31 (STEM camp) Cost: $200/week (academic camp), $350/week (STEM camp), $400/week (gaming camp) • 15460 Pin Oak Drive, Conroe • www.lakecreekacademy.com/admissions/camps/ summer-camp-2026

National Youth Theater: Camp Dreamworks Type: musical theater / day Ages: 6-12 Dates: June 15-19 (Conroe), July 13-17 (Montgomery) Cost: $175 (early-bird through April 1), $200 (after early-bird) • 1115 Houston St., Conroe; 107 Fish Creek Thoroughfare, Montgomery • https://nationalyouththeater.org/day-camps School of Live Music Type: day / arts Ages: 6+ (piano and music), 8+ (art camp), 11 to adult (bold voices), 14 to adult (jazz band) Dates: July 7-11 and July 14-18 (piano and music), July 30-Aug. 2 and Aug. 6-9 (art camp), May 27-June 28 (musical theater), May 26-Aug. 1 (jazz band) Cost: $150/week (piano and music), $120/week (art camp), $135/week (musical theater), $135/week (jazz band) • 107 Old River Road, Ste. F, Montgomery • www.schooloflivemusic.com This list is not comprehensive.

Conroe/Montgomery

Backstage Dance Studio’s Princess Camp Type: day / dance Ages: 3-6 Dates: June 10-13 and July 8-11 (Montgomery), June 24- 27 and July 15-18 (Conroe) Cost: $225 • 808 Northpine Drive, Conroe Gracie Barra Conroe Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Type: athletics Ages: 5-11 Dates: June 16-20, June 30-July 3, July 14-18, July 28- Aug. 1 Cost: $199-$799 (before June 16), $299-$899 (after June 16) • 18932 Freeport Drive, Montgomery • www.backstagedancestudio.net

Lighthouse Summer Camp Type: day / sports Ages: 5-12 Dates: May 27-Aug. 8 Cost: $240/week • 5701 N. Frazier St., Conroe • www.lighthousewillis.com

• 4705 W. Davis St., Ste. 100, Conroe • https://graciebarraconroetx.com

Buy 3 get the 4 th camp free * (full day or 1/2 day) - or - $25 off 1/2 day camps Summer Art Camp SALE

We Create ART ists

* Pay only supply fee for 4th camp. Sale applies to 5 day camps. Cannot be combined with other offers. Expires March 31, 2026 7 Houston Area Locations CordovanArtSchool.com

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY COLE GEE

Conroe

The Woodlands

Backstage Dance Studio’s Camp Broadway Type: day / dance Ages: 7-10 Dates: June 17-20 (Montgomery), July 8-11 (Conroe) Cost: $225 • 808 Northpine Drive, Conroe

The Woodlands Christian Academy Type: academics / arts / sports Ages: pre-K-12th grade Dates: May 26-July 31 Cost: $295-$350/week (for a half-day camp) • 5800 Academy Way, The Woodlands • www.twca.net

Art Camps at Cordovan Art School Type: Art Ages: 5-16 Dates: May 26-Aug. 14 (weekdays) Cost: Beginning at $299/week • 8000 McBeth Way, Ste. 130, The Woodlands • https://cordovanartschool.com

• 18932 Freeport Drive, Montgomery • www.backstagedancestudio.net

CONROE - MONTGOMERY EDITION

Awaits A NEW HAVYN

Experience serenity in Woodhavyn™, a 300-acre retreat surrounded by lush green spaces and timeless natural beauty. Explore six stunning model homes now open, with engaging amenities on the way. Perfectly positioned Woodhavyn offers quick access to work, dining and shopping in The Woodlands, Tomball and Magnolia. Tour today, your havyn awaits. Community IS IN OUR NATURE

New Homes $ 300s- $ 600s

Models are not an indication of racial preference. Floor plans, maps and renderings are artist’s conception based on preliminary information, not to scale and subject to change. This is not an offer of real estate for sale, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, to residents of any state or province in which registration and other legal requirements have not been fulfilled. Pricing does not include options, elevation, or lot premiums, effective date of publication and subject to change without notice. All square footages and measurements are approximate and subject to change without notice. Trademarks are property of their respective owners. School enrollment and boundaries subject to change. Equal Housing Opportunity. 12/25 TM

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Dining

BY JOVANNA AGUILAR

Petite Suzette oers a variety of omelettes served with toast and potatoes or a croissant for an additional charge.

The Bouillabaisse includes sh broth, shrimp, Hokkaido scallops, cod, mussels, clams and garlic bread.

PHOTOS COURTESY PETITE SUZETTE

Petite Suzette serves French cuisine in Montgomery Located at the Waterpoint Shopping Center, Petite Suzette opened on April 21 to ll the community’s need for a French bistro, manager Mike Gardne said. Oering lunch, dinner and brunch on the week- ends, the bistro has become the new local charming eatery oering a variety of French cuisine staples, Gardne said. What’s special about it? Craving French cuisine? With crepes as its bread and butter, Petite Suzette oers a variety of signature French dishes. Made with French ingredients from French distributors as well as local ingredients, Gardne said key French ingredients sourced include the bistro’s trues and butter.

Petite Suzette oers happy hour Monday-Friday from 35 p.m.

LAKE CONROE

Restaurant favorites include the Suzette crepe, a sweet crepe, and the beef bourguignon made with beef tender, slowly cooked for eight hours. For brunch, the eatery oers house-made croissants, crepes and omelettes. Along with a full bar, Petite Suzette oers signature cocktails to accompany its French dishes.

105

Named after a traditional French crepe, Petite Suzette oers an elevated dining experience ideal for birthdays and celebrations. With an atmosphere lled with plants and dim lighting, the bistro adds to its ambiance with live music held Thursday-Saturday evenings featuring local artists.

MCCALEB RD.

15260 Hwy.105, Ste. 146, Montgomery www.petitesuzette.com

CONROE MONTGOMERY EDITION

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Nonpro t

BY COLE GEE

Bridgewood Farms plans expansions

The details

The four main projects Bridgewood Farms has in the works include:

The four main projects Bridgewood Farms has in the works include a new campus facility, a new food pantry, new homes to create a neighborhood for adults with disabilities and the expansion of the Grove program, which teaches adults with disabilities life skills. Per its website, Bridgewood Farms currently owns and operates four homes for 12 clients, fully furnished with caregivers and continuous commu- nity support. Doleman said the organization wants to eventually create a neighborhood. Meanwhile, the food pantry is a planned partnership between the Montgomery County Food Bank and Bridgewood Farms to help those struggling with food insecurity, Doleman said. Doleman said the nonprot estimated the cost for the projects to be around $1.5 million. To raise these funds, Bridgewood Farms hosted a charity drive and raised $350,000. While they haven’t reached their goal, Doleman said he believes Bridgewood now has a lot of momentum going into the new year.

New campus facility to help teach classes on Bridgewood Farms’ campus Estimated completion: summer 2027 New food pantry in partnership with Montgomery County Food Bank Estimated completion: 2026 New homes to create a neighborhood for adults with disabilities Estimated completion: 2030 Expansion of the Grove program, which teaches adults with disabilities life skills, to allow for more participants Estimated completion: April 2026

The nonprot Bridgewood Farms is planning multiple long-term projects to upgrade its facilities and better serve adults with disabilities. These are spearheaded by Executive Director Randy Doleman, who said he has years of nonprot experience and hopes to take Bridgewood into the future with the upgrades. Doleman was hired in 2023. He said his interest in the organization was not only because of his past work in the nonprot sector, but also his experience working with adults with disabilities. “I’ve always had a heart to help people, ... but even more so for those with special needs, truly needing someone to speak up for them,” Doleman said.

SOURCE: BRIDGEWOOD FARMSCOMMUNITY IMPACT

“There’s kind of this feeling of once we break ground, and people see that it’s actually hap- pening, there’s ... more people that want to be involved and support it nancially,” said Doleman.

The timeline

The campus is one of the larger projects, but Doleman said they hope to break ground in the next few months, with construction estimated for 16-18 months. Bridgewood is also planning the rest of its 60 acres for the new neighborhood, which Doleman said will be underway until 2030.

The Grove program upgrades are already in progress, Doleman said, and he expects them to be completed by April. The program hosts one “Grove group” with four clients and one teacher. With the facility upgrades, Bridgewood hopes to add four more groups by the end of the year.

Some Bridgewood Farms residents pose during a night of socializing.

COURTESY RANDY DOLEMAN

Elevated Living Designed for Every Chapter

336

SGT. ED HOLCOMB BLVD.

Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care

55+ Active Adult Living

(936) 270-7300 | 2310 Riverway Dr, Conroe, TX 77304 TheLakesAtWoodhavenVillage.com

ID #106820 (936) 703-5333 | 2275 Riverway Dr, Conroe, TX 77304 WoodhavenVillage.com

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