Katy South Fulshear Edition | November 2023

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Katy South Fulshear Edition VOLUME 12, ISSUE 3 NOV. 21DEC. 19, 2023

Fulshear to see commercial, utility growth

INSIDE

Tri Pointe Homes’ Fulshear Run development has one remaining homesite left to build. It is one of several residential developments underway in the city of Fulshear. The city’s downtown district is also seeing a variety of upcoming commercial and utility improvement projects as development moves west.

COURTESY CITY OF FULSHEAR

Also in this issue

Impacts: First Nando’s coming to Katy area (Page 6)

Government: Plans to revitalize NRG Park in place (Page 9)

Transportation: Katy City Council OKs Pitts Road project (Page 16)

Events: 7 activities happening in the Katy area (Page 27)

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

KATY SOUTH - FULSHEAR EDITION

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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. About Community Impact

Market leaders & metro team

Reporters Jovanna Aguilar Asia Armour Melissa Enaje Wesley Gardner Cassandra Jenkins Shaheryar Khan Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Dave Manning James T. Norman Jessica Shorten Lizzy Spangler Graphic Designers Jatziri Garcia Ellen Jackson Martha Risinger Jesus Verastegui Taylor White

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KATY SOUTH - FULSHEAR EDITION

Impacts

MORTON RD.

Now open

BARTLETT RD.

2855

N. ELDRIDGE PKWY. N. DAIRY ASHFORD RD.

FRANZ RD.

CANE ISLAND PKWY.

KATY FORT BEND RD.

KATY FWY.

K I N G S L A N

Katy

99 TOLL

HIGHLAND KNOLLS DR.

GEORGE BUSH PARK 1 Twisted Egg Shack This fast-casual breakfast, brunch and lunch spot opened in Katy this fall. The restaurant’s menu features flavored mimosas, brunch bowls, breakfast platters, omelets and shareables for breakfast and brunch; as well as stacked sandwiches on croissant buns and salads for lunch. • Opened Sept. 18 • 6825 S. Fry Road, Katy • www.twisted.app

1463

GARDEN CREST LN.

8 9 12

S N E R

CROSS CREEK WEST BLVD.

CREEK LANDING LN.

1463

359

CINCO PARK RD.

CROSS CREEK BEND LN.

359

99 TOLL

F R Y R D .

Now open

1093

2 Activate The indoor gaming space allows teams of two to five people to choose more than 500 games of varying difficulty levels. All games incorporate technology, and wristbands track participants’ scores. • Opened Nov. 2 • 20225 Katy Freeway, Katy • www.activate.games 3 PetSuites of America This pet resort offers boarding, day care, grooming and training services. The facility also features webcams so pet parents can check on their animals.

FULSHEAR GASTON RD.

Fulshear

359

723

FM 762 RD.

READING RD.

MAP NOT TO SCALE

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BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

8 Lululemon The high-end yoga-focused activewear brand will open in the Cinco Ranch LaCenterra shopping center. The activewear retailer sells stylish loungewear, footwear and accessories, according to an Oct. 23 news release from LaCenterra. • Opening February 2024 9 Kilwins At the confection shop, visitors can view the step-by- step process of crafting several desserts, according to a news release from the retail center. Treats include chocolates, toffee and caramels; Mackinac Island fudge developed with an original recipe from Don and Katy Kilwin; ice cream; kettle corn; and caramel apples. • 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Katy • https://shop.lululemon.com

• Opened Oct. 31 • 28530 FM 1093, Fulshear • https://fulshear.petsuitesofamerica.com

Coming soon

4 Baker Hughes Energy technology company Baker Hughes celebrated the grand opening of its new corporate headquarters in the Energy Corridor in October. The office comprises five floors with space for 1,300 employees. • Opened Oct. 23 • 575 N. Dairy Ashford Road, Houston • www.bakerhughes.com

Coming soon

5 Pace Pickleball Club A new indoor pickleball facility will feature seven indoor pickleball courts available for open play, lessons, clinics, leagues and private instruction. The facility will also have a red-light therapy room for recovery, events, tournaments and equipment rentals. • Opening this winter • 830 Katy Fort Bend Road, Ste. 100, Katy • www.pacepickle.com 6 Kelsey-Seybold Clinic The Houston-based health care provider will open a three-story facility in Rosenberg with up to 27 providers and multiple services, per a news release. • Opening summer 2024 • 23337 Southwest Freeway, Rosenberg • www.kelsey-seybold.com

12 Nando’s Peri Peri The Afro-Portuguese fast-casual restaurant is known for selling South African peri-peri spiced chicken and sauces. Nando’s menu features whole chicken platters, protein bowls and sandwiches as well as several sides and shareable dishes. • Opening January • 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Katy • www.nandosperiperi.com

• Opening fourth quarter 2023 • 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Katy • www.kilwins.com

In the news

10 The Ballard House For the last 10 years, The Ballard House has provided more than 80,000 free nights stay to patients and caregivers coming to the area for treatment of life-threatening illnesses. The Ballard House features 24 suites, a game room, chapels, a serenity garden, and

community kitchen and dining areas. • 21421 Cinco Park Road, Houston • www.theballardhouse.org

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. The company’s taprooms pair American pub food, such as pizza, burgers and chicken wings, with craft beer and cocktails. • 22756 Westheimer Parkway, Ste. 100, Katy • www.voodoobrewery.com CharterUP The bus rental service expanded its services to include 12-passenger sprinter vans in Houston, the company announced Oct. 25. The company already had a fleet of more than 4,000 motor coaches and minibusses. • www.charterup.com

11 Wienerschnitzel Construction on this popular hot dog chain’s new Katy location is expected to conclude by March 30, according to information from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Its menu features hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, fries and snacks, breakfast and Tastee Freez ice cream treats. • 3325 W. Grand Parkway N., Ste. 100, Katy • www.wienerschnitzel.com 13 Voodoo Brewing Co. Construction on the new location is expected to conclude by Jan. 15, according to information from the

7 Children’s Lighthouse Early Learning School

Emily and Amal Fernando will open a new location of the school. The business promotes intellectual development; social and emotional growth; and active learning. Traditional school-hour programs, after- school programs and summer camps are available for children up to 12 years old. • Opening in late 2024 or early 2025 • Located in Cross Creek West development • www.childrenslighthouse.com

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KATY SOUTH - FULSHEAR EDITION

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

Harris Center opens mobile wellness clinic A new community health care initiative is taking place with the launch of a mobile wellness clinic in September. The mobile clinic will address the full wellness needs of each patient, including physical, mental and behavioral health. The details Ocials with The Harris Center said that while the mobile wellness clinic will initially partner with community centers for events in precincts 1 and 2, it won’t be limited to just those two areas. “We’ll look at what they’re currently doing with their activities because they’re already connected to the community, and then we add the mobile wellness vehicles to go to these events,” Director Stanley Williams said. Harris County Public Health oering latest COVID19 vaccines Harris County Public Health now oers the latest COVID-19 vaccines from Pzer-BioNTech and Moderna, which were updated in September, according to an Oct. 10 news release. What you need to know The updated vaccines are free at HCPH centers for all community members 6 months and older without health insurance and those who have insurance that doesn’t cover all COVID-19 vacci- nation costs, ocials said. Individuals who have insurance that fully covers COVID-19 vaccines can visit www.vaccines.gov to nd a vaccination site. The release states the updated vaccines or booster shots are recommended to everyone, and the vaccines are designed to protect against the omicron variant and “other circulating virus strains.” Quote of note The Harris County Public Health release states that the updated vaccines and boosters

Katy expands tax reinvestment zone Katy City Council extended the boundar- ies and the term of the city’s tax increment reinvestment zone No. 1 on Oct. 9. The action taken The zone’s boundaries cover Katy Mills Mall and the Katy Buc-ee’s location at I-10 and Cane Island Parkway, said Christina Miller, a board representative for the Katy Area Economic Development Council. Per Miller’s presentation, the zone was set to expire Dec. 31, 2038, and will now expire Dec. 31, 2055. The zone now encom- passes more land including the new Home Depot coming to Kingsland Boulevard.

“With the cool weather approaching this fall and winter, as well as the holidays, it is important for families to stay up to date with their COVID19 and u vaccines.” DR. ERICKA BROWN, HARRIS COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH

are recommended for everyone 6 months and older who have completed their primary vaccine series. “The updated COVID-19 vaccines provide the best protection against the most recent strains of the virus, and they are safe and eective for people of all ages,” Dr. Ericka Brown, local health authority for HCPH, said in the news release. Next steps Appointments for COVID-19 vaccination can be made at http://vacstrac.hctx.net or by calling 832-927-8787. Flu shots are also available and can be administered in the same appointment as COVID-19 vaccines. The nearest HCPH vaccine location to the Katy area is at 5815 Antoine Drive, Houston. In addition to HCPH sites, community members can enter their ZIP code at www.vaccines.gov to nd a COVID-19 vaccine near them.

Expanded TIRZ boundary

1463

CANE ISLAND PKWY.

Harris County ocials plan to revitalize NRG Park Plans to revitalize the home of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and the Houston Texans are moving forward after Harris County commissioners voted unanimously Oct. 10 to task county ocials with redeveloping the NRG Park complex and surrounding region. 90 NRG Center NRG Park Houston Astrodome NRG Stadium

The Harris County Sports and Convention Cor- poration will develop at least two alternative plans to re-envision NRG Park, which is a 350-acre sports and entertainment complex owned by the county that hosts more than 5.5 million people annually. Digging deeper HCSCC Chair James Dixon II said the organi- zation will work collaboratively with input from tenants, the rodeo and the Texans, and ensure the greatest benet for all key stakeholders, such as county residents, and Houston’s diverse residen- tial and business communities. “If we are really methodical and strategic and collaborative and work with pure intent, we can all

NRG Arena

610

SOURCE: HARRIS COUNTY SPORTS AND CONVENTION CORP.COMMUNITY IMPACT

end up with something out there that becomes a legacy project for our future,” Dixon said. Ideas discussed for the project included adding more green space, replacing parts of the parking lot with economic mixed-use areas, and looking to potential developments in the surrounding area, Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis said.

KATY SOUTH FULSHEAR EDITION

More than ever, it's a time for hope. For every new home purchased in Nov. 1 - Dec. 31, Cross Creek Ranch and Cross Creek West will donate a portion of each home sale to these 4 charities. Give Back.

• Abigail’s Place • Family Hope • Fort Bend PAWS • Reining Strength

Purchase a new home in Cross Creek Ranch or Cross Creek West to be entered to win $3,000

To further help, visitors to the community can drop off items for each of these charities at the Cross Creek Ranch Welcome Center 6450 Cross Creek Bend Lane, Fulshear, Tx 77441

SCAN HERE FOR A LIST OF NEEDS

* Must purchase a new home November 1 - December 31, 2023 to be eligible for the $3,000. $3,000 will be awarded upon closing of the home in CCR or CCW. Must close by 12/31/2024. Restrictions apply, please see website for more details. For a full list of items needed, please visit the website.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Government

BY DANIEL WEEKS

Construction picked up this fall on Phase 2 of Katy-area reservoir project

Bear Creek

GREEN HOUSE RD.

KEITH HARROW BLVD.

OLD GREENHOUSE RD.

The Harris County Flood Control District initiated repair work Oct. 9 on Addicks Reservoir channels in the northeast Katy area, a HCFCD spokesperson said. The details The scope of work for the Addicks Repair Package Two project entails: • Repairs to channels where erosion and slope failures have occurred • Repairs of concrete structures and storm outfall failures The effort is “part of ongoing work to ensure the channels in the Addicks watershed are functioning at design capacity as they carry stormwater out of surrounding neighborhoods

and into the federal reservoir,” according to a release from HCFCD. The construction is expected to be complete by winter 2023 or 2024. The cost for the second repair package is estimated to be $2.1 million. Residents in the neighborhoods surrounding the following areas will begin to see increased construction activity, according to the release: • Bear Creek • Langham Creek • South Mayde Creek A map of the areas affected by the Addicks Reservoir and additional information can be viewed on the Harris County Flood Control District website.

Langham Creek

CREEK

CROSSWAY DR.

South Mayde Creek

SA UMS RD.

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KATY SOUTH - FULSHEAR EDITION

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Election

BY DAVE MANNING & KELLY SCHAFLER

Katy-area voters approve most bonds, reject athletic propositions

Results breakdown

Winner

Fort Bend County bond

Proposition A

Katy-area residents voted in favor of several items on the Nov. 7 ballot, which included bond elections from three entities. However, voters rejected three propositions related to upgrading athletic facilities. What you need to know Voters approved two Fort Bend County bond referendums totaling $865.6 million. The proposi- tions will fund the following items: • Proposition A ($712.6 million): construction, maintenance and operation of county roads • Proposition B ($153 million): improvements, renovations, land acquisition, and building construction for park and recreational purposes Roughly 34% of the 2023 mobility bond is ear- marked to construct existing projects, according to county documents. The larger portion of the bond will be allocated to design, right-of-way acquisi- tion and utilities for new projects, County Judge KP George said to Community Impact . Voters rejected Katy ISD’s propositions C and D. KISD’s bond was broken into four propositions: • Proposition A ($722.99 million): four new schools, the purchase of future school sites, 26 renovations and expansions for aging campuses, 85 safety and security upgrades, new buses, and 61 building component replacements • Proposition B ($83.57 million): classroom and campus technology • Proposition C ($4.2 million): renovations to competitive swimming facilities

• Proposition D ($29.88 million): athletic facilities repairs including Rhodes Stadium Lamar CISD’s $15 million bond proposition aimed to fund one item: renovations and improve- ments to Traylor Stadium that included adding bleachers, repairing foundation, replacing turf, installing LED lighting and roof and locker room repairs. This was also rejected by 55% of voters. Cost to residents Fort Bend County’s bond won’t impact on the county’s tax rate, George said. Meanwhile, KISD’s two approved propositions equate to 95% of the proposed $840.6 million bond. The passed projects will result in an increase in the district’s debt but not a property tax rate increase, per the district’s website. All votes are unofficial until canvassed. Quotes of note “We are an exponentially growing county,” George said. “People come here and call [it] home because we provide good mobility, park and recreation, library system, [emergency medical services] and law enforcement. ... We wanted to continue so that we could sustain our growth.” “With our community’s overwhelming support of the bulk of the 2023 bond program, we are strategically positioned to deliver continued student improvement in safe and up-to-date learning environments, all while experiencing tremendous growth,” KISD Superintendent Ken Gregorski said in the district’s Nov. 8 statement.

64% For 36% Against

Proposition B

52% For 48% Against

Katy ISD bond

Proposition A

59% For 41% Against

Proposition B

57% For 43% Against

Proposition C

40 For 60% Against

Proposition D

44% For 56% Against

Lamar CISD bond

45% For Proposition A

55% Against

SOURCES: HARRIS COUNTY, FORT BEND COUNTY, WALLER COUNTY/ COMMUNITY IMPACT

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in with the NEW!

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Homes at Elyson ® are built and sold by home builders (“Builders”) unaffiliated with NASH FM 529, LLC (“Owner”), Newland Real Estate Group LLC (“Newland”) or their related entities. Buyers should review the purchase agreement, public offering statement., and other offering materials provided by the seller prior to signing any contract to purchase a home. Details on the prospective development are provided for informational purposes only and there is no guarantee that the final development will match the developer’s vision. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. Copyright © 2023 NASH FM 529, LLC (“Owner”). All Rights Reserved. No reproductions, distribution, or unauthorized transmission of any portion is permitted without written permission of Fee Owner. (3/23)

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Transportation

BY APRIL KELLEY

Streak of daily traffic fatalities to reach 23 years in Texas

Nov. 7 will mark 23 years of daily traffic fatalities on Texas roadways, according to the Texas Depart- ment of Transportation, if the streak continues. The gist According to TxDOT, Texas has not had one day without a traffic fatality since Nov. 7, 2000. On average, the state sees 10 deaths on Texas road- ways each day. As of Oct. 6, 3,057 fatalities have occurred as a result of 2,757 fatal crashes, according to TxDOT’s Crash Records Information System. A total of 4,481 traffic fatalities occurred in 2022 in Texas, down 16 from the 4,497 that occurred in 2021, according TxDOT. Traffic fatalities, however, were higher in 2022 than they were in 2020, which saw 3,896 total traffic fatalities. Background TxDOT launched its #EndTheStreakTX cam- paign Nov. 15, 2016, to raise awareness of daily

5K 4K 3K 2K 1K 0 Traffic fatalities 2003-2023

*AS OF OCT. 6

17.24% increase from 2003-2022

SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION/COMMUNITY IMPACT

traffic fatalities and to encourage safe driving, with the goal of ending the daily streak of deaths. TxDOT asks all Texans to: • Make the best and safest decisions behind the wheel. • Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

• Always obey traffic laws. • Always wear a seat belt.

• Post pictures on social media with a download- able sign using the hashtag #EndTheStreakTX. • Share personal stories on social media of loved ones who died in a crash using the hashtag #EndTheStreakTX.

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KATY SOUTH - FULSHEAR EDITION

Transportation

BY EMILY LINCKE

Katy City Council OKs $1.5M for Pitts Road expansion

Katy City Council approved the use of about $1.5 million for an expansion project along Pitts Road in northwest Katy. The gist Construction on the Pitts Road Bou- levard Expansion Project is expected to begin mid-December and be completed by mid-May 2024, according to city representatives during Katy City Council’s Oct. 23 meeting. Leaders for the Katy Development Authority were authorized to begin this project with Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County funds after a unanimous vote from council. The Pitts Road project—which will run 3,700 feet from Cane Island Parkway to Morton Road— will widen the road by two lanes, according to Oct. 23 Katy City Council meeting documents. The project will add: • Two additional travel lanes

• Associated turn lanes • Median cuts • Drainage inlets The specifics After receiving 16 bids for the project, the KDA awarded a contract to Allgood Construction Services LLC on Oct. 16, according to Oct. 23 meeting documents. Allgood’s bid was to construct the project for about $1.12 million. The remaining cost of the project—$376,475—is made up of contingencies, materials testing, and construction management and observation services. Allgood is also working on an ongoing improvement project along Kingsland Boulevard for the KDA, according to meeting documents. The project is managed by Houston-based firm ARKK Engineers.

MORTON RD.

FRANZ RD.

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KATY SOUTH - FULSHEAR EDITION

MASON ROAD 1640 S Mason Rd (281) 395-6262

FALCON LANDING 9722 Gaston Rd (281) 574-3008

FULSHEAR 24940 FM 1093 (281) 391-4008

KATY 23702 Westheimer Pkwy (281) 392-5554

KATY MILLS 24417 Katy Fwy (281) 394-5780

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Real estate

BY SHAHERYAR KHAN

Buyers face challenges as loans resume

The breakdown

Poll: Have student loans affected your decision to buy a house?

Losey said student loans make it harder for households to save for buying a home. Data from the Texas Real Estate Research Center shows stu- dent loan debt nearly doubles the time it takes to save for a 5% down payment on a $217,000 home, for example, from 1 1/2 years to three years. According to a 2021 survey from the National Association of Realtors, 60% of millennials who do not own a home reported delays of at least three years in purchasing a home due to student loans.

Yes

No/don't know/don't wish to buy a house

Gen. X (Born 1965-1980)

Baby boomers (Born 1946-1964)

Millennials (Born 1981-1996)

Student loan payments resumed Oct. 1 after a three-year forbearance. As such, local real estate experts said first-time homebuyers in the Houston area are facing challenges alongside rising home prices and interest rates as well as limited housing inventory. Student loan payments were paused in response to the COVID-19 pandemic starting in March 2020. On average, Texans owe $26,273 each in student loan debt, according to Clare Losey, assistant research economist at the Texas Real Estate Research Center at Texas A&M University.

60%

53%

37%

SOURCE: NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

What experts say

Houston median home sales price

Cathy Trevino, chair of the Houston Association of Realtors, said resuming loan payments, rising home prices and limited inventory are causing a “trifecta of obstacles” for aspiring homeowners. However, Steven Craig, professor of economics and associate dean of faculty and research at the University of Houston, said he believes student loan payments resuming did not directly reduce housing demand, as borrowers were aware of their financial commitments.

+25.66%

$343,950

$333,000

$300,000

$265,000

Annual household income

10.9%

$30K

Sept. 2020

Sept. 2021

Sept. 2022

Sept. 2023

Numbers are based on the average monthly student loan payment of $273 in Texas.

8.2%

$40K $50K $60K $70K $80K $90K $100K

6.6% 5.5% 4.7%

SOURCE: HOUSTON ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS/COMMUNITY IMPACT NOTE: SEPTEMBER DATA IS THE MOST RECENT MONTHLY DATA AVAILABLE.

4.1% 3.6% 3.3%

Looking ahead

Tricia Turner, a Houston-based Realtor and owner of Tricia Turner Properties, said she recommends prospective homebuyers

renegotiate student loan payment plans for lower monthly payments and consider a 40- year mortgage to lower payments.

Percent of monthly income spent on student loan payment

100%

SOURCE: CLARE LOSEY, TEXAS REAL ESTATE RESEARCH CENTER AT TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

4747 FM 1463, Suite 1000 Katy, TX 77494 713.852.6700 TexasBayCU.org

KATY SOUTH - FULSHEAR EDITION

Best Master-Planned Community - #1 Selling in Houston, BOOM! Best NEW Model Home Village - Over 20 Amazing Builders, BOOM! Best Amenities - Lazy River & Crystal Lagoon Coming Soon, BOOM! Best Schools - Katy ISD Ranked #1 in Houston, BOOM!

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*Number one ranking based on RCLCO 2023 mid-year report. Prices and availability subject to change without notice. Amenity designs and construction are subject to first obtaining the appropriate federal, state and local permits and approvals. Features listed for The Retreat Lazy River and Sol Club Lagoon Amenity Village are representative only, and Starwood reserves the right, without notice to or approval by the Buyer, to make changes or substitutions of equal or better quality for any features, materials and equipment. The location and size of The Retreat Lazy River and Sol Club Lagoon Amenity Village are subject to feasibility studies and local government approvals. 10/23

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Real estate

Number of homes sold

October 2022

October 2023

Residential market data

179 145

-40%

-18.99%

77094

77493

Katy-area ZIP codes overall saw a decrease in home sales this October compared to October 2022. Home sales prices also declined in most ZIP codes.

133 105

45 77

-21.05%

77494

+71.11%

77441

125 93

37 44

529

-25.6%

+18.92%

77449

77450

99 TOLL

1093

Median October home sales price

2022

2023

2022

2023

77094

77493

-10.84%

+3.96%

$452,500

$370,000

$507,500

$355,900

77449 77493

77094 77441 77450 77494

77441

-24.52%

77494

$460,000

$609,406

+12.5%

$495,000

$440,000

77449

77450

-4.41%

-7.07%

$282,000

$381,000

$295,000

$410,000

NEIGHBORHOOD DATA PROVIDED BY CHARLIE RUSSO RE/MAX SIGNATURE 713-851-4871 WWW.CHARLIERUSSOREALTY.COM

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KATY SOUTH - FULSHEAR EDITION

From the cover

Fulshear to see commercial, utility growth

The big picture

New developments

Residential 1 Pecan Ridge • Currently selling • 797 homesites 2 Estates at James Lane • Opening spring 2024 • 38 1-acre homesites

Commercial 3 Fulshear Marketplace • 100,705 square feet • Mixed use with residential and park space

Water 5 Water plant 1 (downtown) • $7.6 million expansion 6 Water plant 2 (Pecan Ridge) • $4.3 million new storage tank

A variety of residential and commercial projects are making progress in the Fulshear area as the auent, largely residential city moves to further develop its downtown area. A developing city in northwest Fort Bend County, Fulshear includes expansive master-planned communities such as Cross Creek Ranch in its city limits, with more in its extraterritorial jurisdiction—the unincorporated area outside of city limits. Fulshear historically has relied on building permits and property taxes for its revenue, Assistant City Manager Zach Goodlander said. However, he said the city’s general fund has seen increasing sales tax revenue as further commercial projects are coming to the area. Sales tax revenue has increased by 60% over the past ve years, according to budget documents. “We’re getting a lot of … nationally known tenants occupying [FM 1463],” Goodlander said. “That corridor is largely getting built out. And we’re slowly but surely starting to see a lot of the commercial interest move west into our downtown area.” The downtown area is seeing new major residential developments alongside plans for a mixed-use project called the Fulshear Marketplace. The project is in a preleasing phase for retail, restaurant and oce spaces, according to project documents. Additionally, another commercial development from company ICO Commercial in the downtown district is now leasing. A new H-E-B is expected to come in the future on the opposite side of FM 1093 from the downtown area and act as a future “anchor” to the nearby Fulshear Marketplace. Goodlander said a timeline has not been shared yet.

4 ICO Commercial • 20,000 square feet • 3 buildings for lease

SOURCES: CITY OF FULSHEAR, TRI POINTE HOMES COMMUNITY IMPACT

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Breaking it down

What else?

In terms of residential development, Fulshear is seeing a variety of projects in the downtown area from longtime west Houston homebuilder Tri Pointe Homes. Tri Pointe has been building homes in the west Houston area for about 40 years, including homes in major communities such as Grand Lakes in the Katy area and Cross Creek Ranch, Marketing Manager Karyn Goertz said. “In Fulshear alone, since 2008, we’ve sold and closed over 1,200 homes in Cross Creek Ranch,” Goertz said. Cross Creek Ranch was sold to Johnson Devel- opment in 2012, and much of the master-planned community is outside of the city’s purview but inside its ETJ. The company’s newest community, Pecan Ridge, opened in February 2023 and oers home- sites that have a width of 45-60 feet. The upcom- ing Estates at James Lane residential development comes with 1-acre homesites.

As several jurisdictions across the Houston region entered into water conservation notices this summer due to extreme drought conditions, some parts of downtown Fulshear saw challenges with maintaining water pres- sure as the city grappled with high demand, Goodlander said. While the city does provide water for many of its residents, not all parts receive water from the city, including acreage communities in the south and communities such as Jordan Ranch, despite having a municipal utility district called Fulshear MUD 3A. On Oct. 17, City Council awarded a $7.6 million contract to expand the downtown water plant to add additional ground storage capacity and booster pumps to help maintain pressure in the system. Council also approved a $4.2 million expansion for the water plant in Pecan Ridge. Both projects are expected to be complete by the rst quarter of 2025.

The following developments from Tri Pointe Homes are currently selling or are selling soon: Residential development quick facts

Estates at James Lane

70.6 acres $800,000 anticipated pricing

Pecan Ridge

296 acres Mid- $300,000s pricing

Cross Creek Ranch

45- to 70-foot-wide homesites Mid- $400,000s to low $700,000 pricing

SOURCES: TRI POINTE HOMES, CITY OF FULSHEARCOMMUNITY IMPACT

What to expect

Goodlander said. Goodlander said he hopes the city’s downtown projects can “keep up” and preserve the city’s unique character. “I think our residents expect a lot of the city, a lot of the developers, … rightfully so. I’m a resident, too, so I would expect nothing less,” he said.

The highest concentration of in-progress commercial development is occurring in the more built-out areas of the city, such as the FM 1463 corridor by the Fulshear Bend H-E-B. Cheba Hut, Piada, First Watch, Houston Methodist, Jack in the Box, Five Guys and Coldstone Creamery are all slated to open in the FM 1463 area in the coming months,

The FM 1463 corridor in the south Katy and Fulshear area is seeing rapid commercial growth, city ocials say.

COURTESY CITY OF FULSHEAR

KATY SOUTH FULSHEAR EDITION

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Events

BY ASIA ARMOUR

A Charlie Brown Christmas Races Racers can participate in the 5K, 10K or Snoopy Kids Dash starting at the Addicks Park and Ride. Racers can wear holiday attire and donate toys to the Memorial Assistance Ministries Christmas Share program. The race is limited to 3,000 participants. • Dec. 2, 8-8:10 a.m. (kids), 8:15-10:30 a.m. (10K), 8:20-10:30 a.m. (5K) • $36.95-$49.95 • 14230 Katy Freeway, Houston • www.runsignup.com/race/tx/houston/ houstonholiday5k

Toys for Tots Car Show West Houston Muscle will host this annual toy drive in the season for giving. Attendees are asked to bring new, unwrapped toys for girl and boy children to the event, which will showcase collections of classic cars. The car show will go on in either rain or shine at the Current church, and racing is not permitted. • Dec. 16, 9-11 a.m. • Free • 26600 Westheimer Parkway, Katy • www.westhoustonmuscle.com/#events

Coffee and Connections Women’s Council of Entrepreneurs, a Greater Houston networking organization, will stop in Katy to host women business owners. These events are designed for entrepreneurs to expand their customer base and referral sources, as well as discuss topics to help guide them through various aspects of business ownership. • Nov. 30, 10-11 a.m.

• Free (members), $20 (nonmembers) • 2101 N. Mason Road, Ste. B, Katy • www.wearewce.com

Hyatt Regency Houston West hotel. The festive event will feature the Candy Cane Lane Holiday market hosted by engineering firm Fluor, a drone show, live performances on the BP Stage, giveaways, food and photo ops with Santa.

decorated Christmas trees this holiday season. Popcorn, food, drinks and hayrides are also offered.

November

• Dec. 2, 5-8 p.m. • Free (admission) • 5990 George Bush Drive, Katy • www.katyheritagesociety.com/events

A Turkey for Every Table Katy Christian Ministries will collect donations for holiday turkey and ham with the goal of providing 1,200 turkeys and hams for local families. It also accepts monetary donations and gift cards to Walmart, Kroger, H-E-B and other grocery stores. • Oct. 18-Dec. 11, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (Mon.-Thu.) • Donations may vary

• Nov. 30, 5-9 p.m. • Free (admission) • 13210 Katy Freeway, Houston • www.energycorridor.org/save-the-date

10th annual Hanukkah Celebration LaCenterra’s Central Green park will host the Roger Spark Band and Rabbi Goldstein as he tells the story of Hanukkah. The Jewish festival of lights occurs from Dec. 7-15 this year and is hallmarked by the eight-day lighting of the menorah.

December

• 3506 Porter Road, Katy • www.ktcm.org/turkey

Christmas at the Park Katy Heritage Society invites residents for a cup of hot chocolate, letters to Santa in its park’s historic post office, Christmas crafts and a tour of its homes with

• Dec. 10, 6-9 p.m. • Free (admission)

Energy Corridor Tree Lighting A 50-foot-tall tree will be illuminated in front of the

• 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Katy • www.centralgreenpark.com

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COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Dining

BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF

across the Houston metro, as recently reported by Community Impact . CI Foodie

Looking to get out of your neighborhood to try a new dining experience? Check out the following restaurant news from

Cypress

Pearland

Conroe

Healthy Delights Healthy Delights serves breakfast options including bagels and omelets as well as custom salads and rice bowls, crepes, wraps and smoothies. The eatery is open from 7 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. • Opened in mid-August

CrunCheese CrunCheese serves Korean-style hot dogs, which are lightly battered and deep fried before being drizzled with signature sauces, such as cheese mustard, garlic Parmesan and jalapeno ranch. • Opened Sept. 9 • 3422 Business Center Drive, Ste. 140, Pearland • www.cruncheeseusa.com

Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux The sports bar and restaurant chain offers a sports- centric atmosphere along with a menu featuring a variety of food and drinks. The restaurant features Louisiana-inspired cuisine, including gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys, crawfish and other Cajun and

Creole specialties. • Opened Sept. 18 • 1000 Outpost Drive, Conroe • www.walk-ons.com

• 9818 Fry Road, Ste. 130, Cypress • www.healthydelightsfood.com

Katy

Webster

New Caney

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen

Bonchon Bonchon serves Korean fried chicken that is fried twice to make it extra flavorful. Chicken comes as bone-in or boneless wings, drumsticks, or strips. Other menu items include house-fried rice, pork buns, Korean tacos and Korean doughnuts. It has locations in Pearland, Houston and Katy. • Opened in September • 300 W. Bay Area Blvd., Webster • www.bonchon.com

Overall Crawfish and Seafood Overall Crawfish and Seafood was renovated to expand its menu and is now offering fried seafood, burgers, egg rolls and wings. Although crawfish is officially out of stock for the season, the restaurant will continue serving its new menu items. • Expanded July 6

Russo’s New York Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen is now serving Italian cuisine and New York-style pizza in Katy. Its menu also features salads, soups, pastas, calzones, sandwiches, desserts and appetizers, such as truffle garlic knots. • Opened Aug. 28 • 22811 Morton Ranch Road, Ste. 130, Katy • www.nypizzeria.com

• 23193 FM 1485, New Caney • https://overall-crawfish-and- seafood.business.site

KATY SOUTH - FULSHEAR EDITION

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