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Pearland Friendswood Edition VOLUME 11, ISSUE 2 JAN. 16 FEB. 13, 2025
2025 Health & Wellness Edition
O cials pitch county mental hospital The percentage of adults in Brazoria County reporting 14 or more poor mental health days each month has risen in recent years, which is part of the reason local o cials are pushing the state to help fund a new mental health hospital in the county. Percentage of adults reporting 14-plus days of poor mental health per month
Brazoria County Texas
20%
15%
12%
15%
9%
14%
10%
11%
9%
5%
increase from 2017-2024 67%
0%
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
SOURCES: COUNTY HEALTH RANKINGS & ROADMAPS COMMUNITY IMPACT
several months by di erent local entities passing resolutions supporting the measure and calling on the Texas Legislature to lend a hand, Community Impact previously reported. The Pearland Chamber of Commerce and other stakeholders are working with lawmakers to see the facility fully funded in the next legislative session, which began Jan. 14, chamber President Jim Johnson said. Those stakeholders include Alvin and Pearland ISDs, Community Health Network and Gulf Coast Center.
BY RACHEL LELAND
To address a lack of psychiatric inpatient beds within Brazoria County, stakeholders from health care, education and local government are asking the 89th Texas Legislature to help fund the coun- ty’s rst mental health hospital. The 115-bed mental health hospital is estimated to cost $115 million and would allow residents to avoid traveling out of the county to similar facilities, according to a report from the Pearland Chamber of Commerce. The initiative has been spearheaded over the past
“Severe lack of resources forces residents to seek mental health care
outside the county, which often leads to delayed or inadequate treatment during critical moments.” JIM JOHNSON, PRESIDENT, PEARLAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
CONTINUED ON 18
Also in this issue Government: Read about the 160-acre city center Manvel o cials discussed (Page 8)
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Education: Learn about the key legislative priorities for local school districts (Page 10)
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PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD EDITION
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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.
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PEARLAND FRIENDSWOOD EDITION
Impacts
FUQUA ST.
13
BLACKHAWK BLVD.
SHADOW CR E
MCHARD RD.
SMITH RANCH RD.
Pearland
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PARK AVE.
19
521
4
W. BROA D W A
10
WALNUT ST.
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16
Friendswood
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M AGNOLIA PKWY.
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8
3
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BAILEY A V E .
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2351
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MCKEEVER RD.
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89
MUSTANG RD.
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MORRIS AVE.
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Manvel
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MAP NOT TO SCALE
N TM; © 2025 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
3 Cosmic Air Adventure Park & Arcade The family-centered entertainment venue features a trampoline park, immersive video games and concessions. • Opened Nov. 2 • 19801 Gulf Freeway, Ste. 800, Webster • www.cosmicairpark.com 4 Chipotle The eatery offers build-your-own options for burritos, bowls, salads, tacos and quesadillas. • Opened Dec. 10 • 8805 Broadway St., Pearland • www.chipotle.com
5 Smoothie King The national smoothie chain offers a number of drinks aimed toward workout and wellness. • Opened Dec. 11 • 21716 Hwy. 288, Ste. 101, Manvel • www.smoothieking.com 6 Painted Tree Boutiques The shop offers home decor, jewelry, clothing and gifts for baby showers, anniversaries and birthdays, among other items. • Opened Dec. 15 • 1003 W. Bay Area Blvd., Webster • www.paintedtree.com
Now open
1 AR Fitness and Nutrition The facility offers a number of group classes, such as strength and muscle-building workouts. • Opened Sept. 28
• 2510 E. Broadway St., Pearland • www.arfitnessandnutrition.com
2 Lobster & Beer NASA The counter-service seafood restaurant and bar serves a lobster-centric menu. • Opened Oct. 28 • 20801 Gulf Freeway, Ste. 24, Webster • www.ilovelobsterandbeer.com
YES, WE DO.
4 Expansion plans 4 Lines of credit *Fees could apply Loan decisions are made locally by people who share your interests. HomeTown Bank’s business lending options include: 4 Equipment loans 4 Acquisitions 4 Construction loans 4 Real estate purchases 4 Expansion plans 4 Lines of credit Sean Murphy, Senior Vice President, Loan Officer and Branch Manager OOOOO Five-Star “Superior” rating by BauerFinancial, Inc., awarded September, 2022 OOOOO 2651 Pearland Parkway • (281) 412-8000 • www.HomeTown.Bank OOOOO Five-Star “Superior” rating by BauerFinancial, Inc., awarded September, 2022 OOOOO 2651 Pearland Parkway • (281) 412-8000 • www.HomeTown.Bank OOOOO Five-Star “Superior” rating by BauerFinancial, Inc., awarded September, 2022 OOOOO 2651 Pearland Parkway • (281) 412-8000 • www.HomeTown.Bank *Fees could apply Sean Murphy, Senior Vice President, Loan Officer and Branch Manager share your interests. HomeTown Bank’s business lending options include: 4 Equipment loans 4 Acquisitions 4 Construction loans 4 Real estate purchases 4 Expansion plans 4 Lines of credit *Fees could apply Sean Murphy, Senior Vice President, Loan Officer and Branch Manager 4 Expansion plans 4 Lines of credit
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Sean Murphy, Senior Vice President, Loan Officer and Branch Manager 4 Free app for your smartphone 4 Send money to friends and family using their email or phone number* 4 Instant debit card transaction alerts with SecurLock Equip 4 Move money easily between external accounts* 4 Mobile deposit – Quick as a click! 4 Instant-issue debit cards 4 Online bill pay 4 Savings Made Simple – debit card transaction automatic savings tool 4 Money Management – create your own budget online! 4 Business Banking – Online cash management for businesses 4 Commercial Remote Deposit Capture for businesses* 4 Positive Pay check fraud prevention for businesses*
*Fees could apply Loan decisions are made locally by people who share your interests. HomeTown Bank’s business lending options include: 4 Equipment loans 4 Acquisitions 4 Construction loans 4 Real estate purchases 4 Expansion plans 4 Lines of credit
We have a wide range of competitive personal and business banking services. And with that full-service convenience banking comes our HomeTown, accessible team of friendly staff members and their commitment to serving the Pearland community. Sean Murphy, Senior Vice President, Loan Officer and Branch Manager
We have a wide range of competitive personal and business banking services. And with that full-service convenience banking comes our HomeTown, accessible team of friendly staff members and their commitment to serving the Pearland community.
OOOOO Five-Star “Superior” rating by BauerFinancial, Inc., awarded September, 2022 OOOOO 2651 Pearland Parkway • (281) 412-8000 • www.HomeTown.Bank *Fees could apply
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6
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
7 Red Cap Cafe Alvin Menu items at this location include burgers and fries, sandwiches, nachos, wings and soup. • Opened on Dec. 19
13 Marco’s Pizza The chain serves a variety of pizza options with different toppings, among other items. • Opening in January • 9340 Fuqua St., Ste. C, Houston • www.marcos.com 14 Jamburritos Cajun Grille Items on the menu include burritos and dishes centered around brisket, carne asada, catfish, crawfish, chicken and other Cajun staples. • Opening Jan. 18 • 11710 Broadway St., Pearland • www.jamburritos.com 15 Urban Bird Hot Chicken Items on the menu include chicken tenders, sandwiches, a sampler plate, fries, macaroni and cheese, and desserts, among other items. • Opening late July • 9250 Broadway St., Ste. 180, Pearland • www.urbanbirdhotchicken.com 16 Pho Prime The restaurant will offer spring rolls, beef noodle soup, coconut chicken curry and a variety of pho bowls. • Opening first quarter of 2025 • 9240 Broadway St., Ste. 115, Pearland • www.phoprime.com 17 Friendswood Hospital The opening has been pushed back. The hospital will offer emergency care, cardiology, an internal medicine specialist, orthopedics and radiology, among other services. • Opening March 1 • 3201 FM 528, Friendswood • www.friendswoodhospital.com
Now open
• 2625 Hwy. 35, Ste. 199, Alvin • Facebook: Red Cap Cafe Alvin
8 Rocko’s Dive Bar & Texas Kitchen The dive bar offers a variety of drinks, such as beer, a mix of cocktails and food. • Opened Dec. 20 • 1130 Broadway St., Ste. 114, Pearland • www.rockostexasdive.com 9 7 Brew The shop’s menu boasts espresso drinks, shakes, smoothies, teas, sparkling waters and energy drinks. • Opened Jan. 6 • 236 El Dorado Blvd., Webster • 7brew.com 10 Beauty Enhancement by Xio The business offers several beauty services, including facials, waxes, injections, chemical peels, teeth whitening and laser hair removal. • Grand opened Jan. 11 • 2743 Smith Ranch Road, Ste. 104, Pearland • beauty-enhancement-by-xio.square.site 11 BODYBAR Pilates The fitness studio offers classes with varying intensities and goals for all skill levels. • Opened Jan. 13 • 11200 Broadway St., Ste. 420, Pearland • www.bodybarpilates.com/studios/shadow-creek
19 Sweet Magnolia’s Tea Room The business will serve fresh sandwiches, salads, soups, desserts and a variety of drinks. The business will host events, such as afternoon tea parties, bridal and baby showers, and birthday gatherings. • Opened Dec. 10 • 2202 N. Park Ave., Pearland • www.smtearoom.com
apartments at Pearland Town Center was filed with the TDLR on Dec. 12. The project will start construction in January and last for two years. • 3200 Business Center Drive, Pearland • www.pelicanbuilders.com 20 Walt Disney Elementary A tornado on Dec. 28 caused damage to the school and officials are planning to relocate staff and students to the old Alvin Elementary School as a result.
Coming soon
12 Doglegs Golf Lounge The business will offer options for those interested in practicing or playing golf in a lounge setting. • Opening in January
In the news
• 5000 Mustang Road, Alvin • www.alvinisd.net/o/wde
18 Pelican Pearland Town Center Multifamily project A new $53 million project involving roughly 380
• 1823 Broadway St., Pearland • www.doglegsgolflounge.com
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PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD EDITION
Government
Manvel discusses city center project
What’s next?
Outside of some funding for design, the project has not been budgeted for and would likely require a bond to build, officials said. It would also likely come in phases over the course of 10 to 20 years. Mayor Dan Davis said getting the cost and presenting it to the community in a transparent way were his priorities. At the time of the meeting, a potential cost for the project was not given. With Dec. 2 being the last meeting of the year for Manvel City Council, city officials will look to hold another planning session in early 2025, Johnson said. That session will cover several different city priorities, including the potential city center development. An official date for the planning session was not set at the meeting.
Manvel City Council at its Dec. 2 meeting renewed discussions on a possible 160- acre city center development, which officials said was originally pitched in 2019 but stalled due to lack of funding. The cost and timeline for the project still remain unknown as discussions are in the early stages, city officials said. An idea for the site, which is located near Del Bello Boulevard and Manvel Parkway just east of Hwy. 288, includes combining different elements of recreation, retail and mixed use properties, according to a proposed plan from architecture firm PGAL. Also included in the plans is space for Manvel city buildings. “We’ve had several discussions over the years, but the one thing we haven’t had is money to develop this,” City Manager Dan Johnson said.
A new city center
CEDAR CREEK RD.
DEL BELLO BLVD.
288
City center development
T E R R
A R
R I
N
160 acres
10-20 years of development
90K more square feet for retail compared to original plan
10 outdoor sports fields
SOURCES: CITY OF MANVEL, PGAL/COMMUNITY IMPACT
BY JAMES T. NORMAN
Pearland annexes nearly 300 acres of MUD Pearland City Council voted at its Dec. 9 and 16 meetings to annex Brazoria County Municipal Utility District No. 16, which covers roughly 286 acres of land. What residents need to know As part of the approval, the city will assume the MUD’s debt. Meanwhile, city documents show residents in the area will see a tax decrease. Other services residents would have include health inspections, permitting and in-city member rates at park and recreation facilities, among other services, documents show. The background As part of the annexation, there are also about $1.2 million in projects the city is discussing carrying out within the MUD, including fencing, street and drainage improvements.
Manvel rejects 6.3% water rate increase Manvel City Council opted against raising its water rate by 6.3% due to concerns that the increase would not meet their needs. What readers need to know The increase would not have covered the utility fund’s portion of the city’s bond payments, which is in part funded through water bills. To do so, the increase would need to be 19%, officials said. Mayor Dan Davis described the increase as trying to “straddle the line,” adding he didn’t feel he could justify the increase. What’s next? Davis said Nov. 19 the item could appear on a future agenda to increase the rate to a percentage that would cover the city’s needs.
What comes with annexing
1,647 residents
286 acres
$785 in savings for home valued at $400K in first year of annexation
$14.8M in debt for MUD
SOURCE: CITY OF PEARLAND/COMMUNITY IMPACT
MCHARD RD.
MUD 16
HUGHES RANCH RD.
BROADWAY ST.
N
Education
Local school districts list priorities ahead of legislative session
Increased funding, teacher salaries, school safety and special education are among the top priorities for officials in Alvin, Friendswood and Pearland ISDs going into the state’s 2025 legislative session. The overview Ahead of the legislative session, which begins Jan. 14, officials in AISD, FISD and PISD discussed legisla- tive priorities they want the state to consider. AISD and PISD officials want an increase to the basic student allotment, which is the funding dis- tricts get for each student enrolled. The allotment has remained at $6,160 per student since 2019. Officials in each district also want an increase in salaries for teachers and district staff, according to documents from each respective district. Special education is a focus for officials in each district as well. Those in FISD want more weighted funding while AISD and FISD officials want more resources for training special education teachers, documents show.
A closer look AISD and PISD officials are hoping for revisions to the state’s A-F rating system, which grades districts on student preparedness for college, career and military service; graduation rates; and State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, or STAAR, scores, according to the Texas Education Agency. AISD and PISD officials want a “broader” school review. AISD officials want a more comprehensive system that recognizes gains made by districts serving low-income families, documents show. AISD and FISD officials also touched on insurance expenses for coastal areas that are prone to storms. FISD officials want to see lower property and casu- alty insurance expenses, while AISD wants a special allotment created for coastal districts. Lastly, AISD and PISD officials have discussed equal funding to offset possible revenue losses from school vouchers, as well as ensuring that public education dollars remain within public schools.
Legislative priority topics for AISD, FISD and PISD Raising school safety funding
Revising state code to remove barriers for correcting disruptive students and encourage policies that support parent involvement Increasing salaries for teachers and district staff
Raising special education funding
2,400+ bills filed within state ahead of session
89th Texas Legislature meets Jan. 14 through June 2
$20B in surplus revenue from state
140 days for regular session
SOURCE: LEGISLATIVE REFERENCE LIBRARY OF TEXAS, TEXAS LEGISLATURE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY HALEY VELASCO
Friendswood ISD posts 2025-26 calendar drafts Two instructional calendar drafts for the 2025-26 school year for Friendswood ISD, which are identical except for a few key dates, were made available for review ahead of board approval in January. The overview Draft A is the current instructional calendar, but shifted to apply to 2025-26 dates, Stacy Guzzetta, FISD’s executive director of student operations, said at the district’s board of trustees’ Dec. 9 meeting. FISD officials curated the second draft, or Draft B, after meeting with neighboring districts to align spring break with one another, as well as local community colleges, including San Jacinto College and College of the Mainlands, Guzzetta said at the meeting. Draft B was then taken for review and discussion to the District Advisory Committee and the Superintendent’s Advisory Committee in early December, district documents note.
Alvin ISD to speed up bond project starts Alvin ISD’s board of trustees approved a reimbursement resolution at its Dec. 10 meeting that will allow officials to begin bond projects sooner. The full story While trustees have issued the bond order for the $380.1 million of bonds approved in November, it typically takes a few months for the district to receive the funding, district documents note. The reimbursement resolution will allow the district to start bond projects using district funds that can be reimbursed later with the bond money, documents show. Officials did not clarify in agenda documents how much they expected the expended funds could be.
Dates in common
Aug. 12: First day of school Oct. 15-20: Fall break Oct. 15: Elementary parent conferences Nov. 24-28: Thanksgiving break Dec. 22-Jan. 2: Winter break Feb. 13-16: President’s Day and student holiday March 9-13: Spring break April 3-6: Good Friday and student holiday May 21: Last day of school
SOURCE: FRIENDSWOOD ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Draft A includes Oct. 31 as a professional learning day and student holiday. That date for Draft B falls on April 24, documents show. Stay tuned The drafts can be viewed on FISD’s website. Guzzetta said Draft B will most likely be the recommended draft that is presented at the board’s Jan. 13 meeting for consideration.
Pearland ISD approves property insurance contract Pearland ISD’s insurance for 2025 will be lower after the board of trustees on Dec. 10 renewed a contract for insurance coverage. What you need to know windstorm, as well as inland marine coverage, which is property transported by land, and equip- ment coverage, district documents show.
PISD’s annual premium costs
2024 2025
$2.76M
$2.5M
The new contract is a decrease of over $255,000 compared to the district’s 2024 total insurance premium, according to district documents. While some areas saw slight increases, property insurance decreased by nearly $260,000, accord- ing to district documents.
$24.2K $25.3K $20.8K $24K
PISD has a contract with Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance, an insurance, risk management and consulting services company. This contract covers property insurance coverage, including
Property (including windstorm)
Inland marine
Equipment
SOURCE: PEARLAND ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
11
PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD EDITION
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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Nonpro t
BY ASIA ARMOUR
• 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 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. Growing Children in “Wisdom, Age, and Grace” • Before and After School Care • Weekly School Mass PK3-8th grade 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 Growing Children in "Wisdom, Age, and Grace" An Accredited School in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston Knodel said WLS invests in the area in many ways, including their Adopt-A Spot on Yoakum Street and participation cleanup events. “We have a very service-minded perspective, and we’re very community-minded,” Knodel said. “So anytime you meet some of the members of WLS, you’re going to discover that they desire to ... make [Brazoria County] a better place to live.” Women Leading Success o ers support to help empower single parents Women Leading Success, a volunteer-led non- pro t, o ers nancial assistance to single parents in Pearland—aiming to empower them to achieve independent living, organization leadership said. WLS is gearing up for its annual fundraiser at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Feb. 16, incoming President Janice Eisen said. She said she’s focused on increasing the group’s membership in 2025 and growing their network of nonpro ts in Brazoria County. “It’s the year of reconnecting,” Eisen said. “I want to attract new and younger members.” What they o er WLS’s outreach fund provides emergency nan- cial help for single parents who need temporary assistance to pay for utilities, rent or child care. The organization also provides scholarships and, during the summer, collects clothing and school supplies for their “single moms closet” for back-to- school essentials. Why it matters In 2024, WLS raised $19,000 to help 15 families, outgoing President JoAnne Knodel said.
Pearland-based nonpro t Women Leading Success o ers nancial assistance and more to single parents and their families.
PHOTOS COURTESY WOMEN LEADING SUCCESS
The nonpro t gives back to the Pearland community in multiple ways, including through cleanup events.
P.O. Box 683, Pearland www.wlspearland.org
Women Leading Success hosts a “single moms closet” where parents can get back-to-school essentials.
• 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
• 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
Open House Jan. 26, 2025 • 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 • Counselor on campus • Intervention Specialist to assist struggling learners • Dance and Cheer Squad
• Athletics Programs • Spanish 6th-8th • Fine Arts Programs • Religion is infused into every class • Before and After School Care • Weekly School Mass
Where INTENTIONAL care matters All-inclusive Rates Fully Furnished Rooms
Founded in 1997 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
Open House Jan. 26, 2025
PK3-8th grade
Come Visit us!
FID# 111611 - 111612
FAITH * ACADEMICS * FINE ARTS * TECHNOLOGY | 2213 Old Alvin Rd., Pearland, TX 77581 | WWW.SHCSSAINTS.ORG
FAITH * ACADEMICS * FINE ARTS * TECHNOLOGY | 2213 Old Alvin Rd., Pearland, TX 77581 | WWW.SHCSSAINTS.ORG
13
PEARLAND FRIENDSWOOD EDITION
Transportation
Events
BY JAMES T. NORMAN
BY ASIA ARMOUR
Work on Blackhawk Boulevard delayed A portion of the work along Blackhawk Boulevard in Friendswood is getting pushed back after city officials said there were challenges surrounding the project. The full story The project includes installing new waterlines and sidewalk improvements on both the east and west portions of the road, Community Impact previously reported. The contractor, however, has expe- rienced “significant” cash flow issues, according to city documents. As a result, work on the east half will be put into the next part of the phase. That phase, called Phase II-C, is expected to go out to bid in 2025, officials said. The total cost of the project is $9.6 million, which Friendswood and Harris County are splitting.
TxDOT opens Green Tee Bridge in Pearland The Green Tee Bridge along Country Club Road in east Pearland reopened in late November, officials with the Texas Department of Transpor- tation confirmed. What readers need to know After originally saying the bridge would likely open up in the spring of 2025, TxDOT Public Information Officer Danny Perez said Dec. 10 the bridge is “essentially done,” and a social media post from the agency confirmed Nov. 27 the bridge was open. “We knew how the closure of the bridge was impacting the community, and we wanted to do all we could to minimize those impacts,” Perez said. How we got here The bridge was aging and needed to be replaced to help with future expansion in the
experience in its community room with soothing, ambient music and sounds. Attendees are encouraged to bring comfortable seating, such as yoga mats, pillows and bean bags. • Feb. 1, 12:30-1:30 p.m. • Free (admission) • 416 S. Friendswood Drive, Friendswood • www.friendswood.lib.tx.us Show & Shine This car show at Garage Ultimate in Friendswood will feature all varieties of makes and models. Families are encouraged to attend and no pre-registration is required.
January
Pearland
Traditional Gumbo Cookoff Rob Ray’s Taproom is having its second annual gumbo cookoff, where attendees can taste test and the winner gets a $100 cash prize. Judging begins at noon. • Jan. 25, noon-4 p.m. • Free (admission) Walk With A Doc Physicians Jignesh P. Shah and Jerry Lee Thurman, Jr. will lead this free walk in the park at Memorial Hermann Pearland Hospital, in front of the sports park building. The event also features a discussion on current health topics with the doctors. • 2503 Covey Lane, Pearland • www.robraystaproom.com
T E E D R .
PROVINCE VILLAGE DR.
N
• Feb. 8, 6-8 p.m. • Free (admission)
• 4760 FM 2351, Friendswood • Facebook: Garage Ultimate
area, Perez told Community Impact in September. The work consisted of replacing the old bridge with one that is higher and wider, as well as paving that approached the bridge. The project in total cost $3.17 million, according to documents from TxDOT. Perez also noted in September the project cre- ated challenges with traffic control plans, which required a detour route due to the bridge being closed during construction.
2025 Pearland Lunar New Year Festival The Pearland Chinese Association brings this family- friendly, cultural festival to the Pearland Recreation Center. It features a lion and dragon dance, balloon art, calligraphy and traditional Chinese games, as well as food and vendors on-site. • Feb. 16, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. • Free (admission) • 4141 Bailey Road, Pearland • www.txpca.org
Roaring ‘20s Bunco Local nonprofit Women Leading Success hosts this 1920s-themed fundraiser at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Pearland. The event raises money to help single women and their children achieve independent living in Brazoria County and features a light lunch, costume contest, games, prizes and a silent auction. • Feb. 16, 1-4:30 p.m. • $35 (until Jan. 12); $50 (general admission); $100 (VIP) • 2406 Hatfield Road, Pearland • www.wlspearland.org
• Jan. 30, 5-6 p.m. • Free (admission) • 11049 Memorial Hermann Drive, Pearland • Facebook: Memorial Hermann
February
Music Bath The Friendswood Library will have a relaxing listening
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
Health & wellness
BY HALEY VELASCO
Health & Wellness Edition 2025
Readers, welcome to your annual CI Health & Wellness Edition! This brand new guide features the latest updates and resources on health and wellness in your community. All of the stories were written by our team of local journalists. In this year’s edition, we provide information on the blood supply both in Brazoria County and the country overall. O cials said they often see a decline in donations during the winter months and recent trends show that remains the case. We also o er readers a guide to local gyms and tness centers across the Pearland- Friendswood area, which provides information on services, classes, pricing and membership options at each facility. This year’s cover story details the e ort from local o cials to bring a mental health hospital to Brazoria County, which, if funding is approved by the state, would be the rst of its kind in the county. Finally, we have a statewide story about those who are uninsured in the state of Texas, how it compares to other states and what is being done to solve the challenge.
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O cials look to up blood donations amid declining supply
As the demand for blood rises over the holiday season, o cials have observed that blood donations tend to decline during the winter. Current situation Blood donations are used for trauma care—spe- ci cally patients who are involved in accidents, chemotherapy and burn victims, said Cameron Palmer, the public relations specialist for the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center. The Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center is a blood donation center that caters the Greater Houston area, including Pearland and Friendswood. The blood center hosts over 7,000 blood drives in the Greater Houston area each year, with high schools and universities playing a key role in mobile collec- tions, Palmer said. Blood donations are especially needed as more people travel and become prone to accidents, which Palmer said is typically during the holiday season. Traveling also leads to fewer donations, he said.
A closer look In order for the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center to have a maintainable amount of blood supply, Palmer said the center must administer 1,000 blood donations per day, and the center strives to have a 3-day blood supply. Palmer said this can be challenging at times since many regular donors are traveling during the holiday season. It’s also common to see blood supplies drop during summer as well. High schools and universi- ties mainly contribute to mobile collections, which are less available when school is out, Palmer said. Severe weather events can also impact donor turnout, Palmer said. Nationally, nonpro t humanitarian organization American Red Cross last January declared an emer- gency blood shortage, citing the lowest numbers of people giving over the past two decades, according to a Jan. 7, 2024 news release.
Blood donations in the United States
6.8 million people donate blood in the U.S. every year 13.6 million units * of whole blood and red blood cells collected in a year in the U.S. 40% fewer people are donating blood compared to 20 years ago 3 units in an average red blood cell transfusion, with a single car accident needing as many as 100 units
*1 UNIT OF BLOOD IS ROUGHLY A PINT
SOURCE: AMERICAN RED CROSS COMMUNITY IMPACT
“Blood donations, they help save lives. ... There’s so many di erent reasons why people need blood.” CAMERON PALMER, PUBLIC RELATIONS SPECIALIST, GULF COAST REGIONAL BLOOD CENTER
16
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY ASIA ARMOUR & JAMES T. NORMAN
Gyms & fitness centers
Membership costs: $35-$100 per session • 9223 Broadway St., Ste. 117, Pearland • www.zerotrainingcenter.com
Pearland
Pearland
Athlete Training and Health Services offered: indoor and outdoor field rentals, pro-style weight room, access to various specialists and doctors Classes: adult group fitness, sports training, post-injury training, team training Membership costs: $59-$275 per month depending on membership • 11049 Memorial Hermann Drive, Ste. 190, Pearland • www.athletetrainingandhealth.com/pearland Wellbeing T50 Fitness Services offered: 30-day fitness program, team training and nutrition plans Classes: 50-minute high intensity interval training, total body strength training, mixed workouts with live DJs and “PiYo,” a combination of Pilates and yoga Membership costs: free seven-day trial; six-month agreement for $38.99 per week; no contract for $42.99 per week • 12810 Broadway St., Ste. 160, Pearland • www.t50fitness.com Galaxy Fitness Services offered: Amenities include saunas, massage chairs and Normatex compression leg sleeves. Classes: speed and agility, zumba, yoga, high-intensity interval training and bootcamp Membership costs: $44.95 per month plus $49 annual fee; $249-$429 (personal training) • 12155 Shadow Creek Parkway, Pearland • www.galaxyfitnesstx.com ZERO Training Center Services offered: uncrowded facility, personal training and no contracts Classes: personal training using machines and free weights
Friendswood
Beast Mode Crossfit Services offered: access to training sessions, personal training, video analysis and competition preparation for weightlifting Classes: Beastmode Barbell Club, which is coached by a professional weightlifter Membership costs: call for pricing • 4203 Friendswood Link Road, Friendswood • www.beastmodecrossfit.com PRESS Forward MMA & Fitness Services offered: aimed at teaching self defense, general fitness or for competition in mixed martial arts, kickboxing and No-Gi Jiujitsu Classes: MMA, kickboxing, fighter training, No-Gi Jiujitsu, kids and teen classes Membership costs: call for pricing • 17130 Townes Road, Ste. B, Friendswood • www.pressforwardmma.com The Sanctuary Gym Friendswood Services offered: facility for working out, cold plunge, stretch therapy, sauna room and workshops Classes: HIIT-based class titled FitCamp, and Kids Club for those with children Membership costs: $20-$124.99 per month depending
assessment, personal training and a nutrition program Classes: Yoga and group classes Membership costs: $239-$299 per month • 607 S. Friendswood Drive, Ste. 17, Friendswood • www.trifitnessgym.com Delta Lift Fitness Friendswood Services offered: women-focused gym with tone and torch workouts for cardio, body sculpting, muscle building and child supervision Classes: group work classes Membership costs: $109-$189 per month based on number of days per week someone goes • 804 S. Friendswood Drive, Ste. 106, Friendswood • www.deltalifefitness.com/friendswood This list is not comprehensive. Pilates Powerhouse & Wellness Center Services offered: personal training, massage therapy, stretch sessions and Pilates classes Classes: Reformer Pilates class consisting of full- body working, Zen Pilates class and Lunchtime Pilates class Membership costs: $135-$420 per month, and personal training session packs ranging from $175 for five sessions to $2,800 for 100 sessions • 3100 Old Chocolate Bayou Road, Pearland • www.pilates-powerhouse.com
on age, services and contract status • 133 W. Parkwood Ave., Friendswood • www.thesanctuarygym.com
TriFitness Gym Friendswood Services offered: for those 50 and older looking for fitness, group sessions, mobility program, movement
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PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD EDITION
Officials pitch county mental hospital From the cover
Patient to mental health provider ratio in Brazoria County
The background
While Brazoria County’s mental health provider-to-patient ratio has decreased over time, the county’s ratio of 940 patients per provider is almost 47% higher than the Texas average of 640 patients per provider.
From 2010 to 2020, Brazoria County’s population more than doubled, partially contributing to a higher number of people reporting mental health crises, according to the Pearland chamber’s report. Johnson said he believes police departments and hospitals in the county are facing an urgent challenge as the number of mental health and substance use cases continues to rise, threatening to overwhelm their resources and capabilities. “Without proper mental health facilities, the burden lies on our emergency rooms and our law enforcement,” he said. “Though they are great at that, it puts pressure on those areas.” In 2023, there were 164,086 psychiatric outpatient service visits in Brazoria County—a 29.4% increase over five years—and the number is expected to grow by nearly 50% over the next decade, according to the report. Companies such as Community Health Network, which is a system of health networks providing care in Brazoria, Galveston and Harris counties, are trying to combat the trend. CHN is adding more staff and service lines each year to its crisis team, said Ezreal Garcia, vice president of government affairs and public relations. These local realities mirror statewide trends, which show that reported depression and mood disorders jumped by 29% from 2018 to 2023, and anxiety disorder visits surged by 80%, the report shows. The coalition also hopes to expand outpatient care in Brazoria County, per the chamber’s website. “As much as an inpatient crisis center will benefit our residents and businesses in Brazoria County, there are other solutions that we are working on to ensure that we not only have the inpatient care, but the outpatient and the preventive care for those mental health [patients],” Johnson said.
State:
Counties:
Texas
Brazoria
Ford Bend Harris
Galveston
8,000 7,000 6,000 5,000 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000
6,169
940
0 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
SOURCE: PEARLAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Health care service sites in the area include primary care, dental and mental health. All of Brazoria County is designated as a mental health professional shortage area. Outside of the northern part of the county, which consists mostly of Pearland, the majority of the county is classified as a primary care health professional shortage area as well. Health care service site Health care service sites by county
GALVESTON BAY
Harris
Fort Bend
Galveston
Brazoria
Wharton
GULF OF MEXICO
Matagorda
MAP NOT TO SCALE N
SOURCE: PEARLAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Another point of view
for his city, which grew 41% in the past five years, according to U.S. Census data released in December. However, a lack of services paired with that growth is causing many to have to look outside the county for help in areas related to mental health, Davis said. A hospital, he said, would fill a “much-needed gap in our region’s health care system.” “A local facility would not only benefit Manvel but also ensure that individuals throughout Bra- zoria County can get the help they need closer to home,” Davis said.
Because SUN Behavioral Health offers inpa- tient care, medical professionals are on-site 24/7 to support patients experiencing a mental health crisis or substance abuse disorder with around- the-clock care, which outpatient care is not equipped to do, Kalina said. “I grew up in Brazoria County, and the reason I got into this business is because there were no resources,” Kalina said. “So now it’s great to be able to bring those resources.” The growth of the county, as well as cities within it, is also spurring more need, data shows. Manvel Mayor Dan Davis said this remains true
Since October 2023, Gulf Coast Center has partnered with SUN Behavioral Health Houston, a psychiatric hospital in Houston with 148 beds. The hospital has reserved 18 beds for patients without health insurance from the Gulf Coast region, which includes Brazoria County, said Mikki Kalina, director of business development at SUN Behavioral Health Houston. Between April and November, Kalina estimated that SUN Behavioral Health Houston admitted around 500 patients from the Gulf Coast Region, although not all those patients used the reserved beds if they had health insurance.
18
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY RACHEL LELAND
The conditions
Looking ahead
people die from opioid overdoses in the county, which has two opioid treatment programs—one in Pearland and one in Lake Jackson—according to the report. Texas has historically trailed behind national drug trends, so this number is expected to rise over the next decade, according to the report. Brazoria County has the 12th fastest-growing suicide rate in Texas, according to the report.
Between 2014 and 2023, the county saw a 57% climb in poor mental health days and a 90% rise in fatal opioid overdoses, according to the chamber’s report. Additionally, binge drinking rates nearly doubled during the same period. In 2022, the opioid overdose rate in Brazoria County was 11.6 per 100,000—slightly higher than the state’s rate of 10.3 but lower than the national rate of 24.4. Each year, around 45
Beyond health concerns, officials expect mental health and substance use disorders to cost the county millions of dollars each year if left unaddressed, according to the report. “Untreated mental health conditions and substance use disorders impose a heavy economic burden on the local economy,” Johnson said. “Decrease in absentee work environment or even school participation due to untreated [mental illness] could cost us lots of money as people [are] unable to work or continue to be productive members of society.” Health care spending in Texas is almost twice as high for adults with mental illness as it is for adults without mental illness, and missed work days caused by untreated mental health issues will cost local businesses millions each year, according to the report. Roughly 16% of Brazoria County’s workforce is in the service industry, which often does not offer health care benefits, especially mental health care, according to the report.
What parents should know
During the 2023-24 school year, Pearland ISD’s Department of Guidance and Counseling reported the following cases related to students: 299 visits addressed depression 427 visits related to self- harm
Local school districts have seen a rise in students reporting mental health concerns. Pearland ISD reported over 1,400 student visits related to depression, self-harm and suicidal ideation during the 2023-24 school year, according to the chamber’s report. According to a 2023 study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1 in 3 high school girls in the U.S. reported having seriously considered attempting suicide. Over half expressed feeling persistent sadness or hopelessness. From 2007 to 2021, rates of suicide for Americans age 10 to 24 increased by 62%—up from 6.8 to 11 deaths per 100,000 people—and suicide became the second leading cause of death for that age group in 2021, the Pearland Chamber’s report shows. Because outpatient care is only designed to address or prevent crises, an inpatient facility such as the proposed mental health hospital would be equipped to address “the crisis at hand,” Garcia said.
686 visits discussed suicidal ideation
23 visits concerned suicide attempts
Percentage of workers who report fair or poor mental health, by age and gender
SOURCE: PEARLAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Female Male
36%
18-29
27%
“A dedicated facility would offer critical support and would ensure that students and families have access
29%
30-39
17%
21%
to timely, professional care, which is vital for academic success, personal growth and overall community health.” LARRY BERGER, PEARLAND ISD SUPERINTENDENT
40-49
16%
14%
50-54
9%
SOURCES: PEARLAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, GALLUP, INC./ COMMUNITY IMPACT
10%
65+
9%
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PEARLAND - FRIENDSWOOD EDITION
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