Bellaire - Meyerland - West University | August 2025

Transportation

Government

BY MELISSA ENAJE & KEVIN VU

First phase of citywide sidewalk repairs underway West University Place contractors started replac- ing sidewalks July 7 in the northern section of the city as part of Phase 1 of its citywide replacement. Project details 59 610

METRO bus shelters to combat extreme heat The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County is testing a new bus shelter designed to withstand the weather ele- ments, such as rain and heat, the agency announced in a June news release. Current situation METRO’s new perforated bus shelters are currently in the pilot testing phase, with 12 of them installed in the Gulfton area. The new design utilizes perforated panels that allow more airow while still providing coverage for the bus shelter, per the release. “These shelters will help keep our com- munity safer and more comfortable during extreme weather while supporting long- term ridership growth and sustainability in the Gulfton community,” METRO Board Chair Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock said.

New committee will oversee failed bond projects A new resident-based facilities commission was approved unanimously July 14 by West University City Council to help gather comprehensive data and report on how three current city buildings are being used. The Facilities Utilization Task Force will review, according to agenda documents, the West U library, community center and senior center—three “The purpose... is to be as transparent as possible to allow people from both sides of the corner of the debate

Bellaire approves shorter term limits During the July 7 City Council meeting, Bellaire ocials approved reducing term limits from three terms to two terms for board and committee members, an item spearheaded by Council member Cindy

to participate as much as possible, and to develop from the standpoint of the community how we are using all of these buildings.” JOHN BARNES, MAYOR PRO TEM

West U council members from the previous term unanimously accepted a $400,000 subgrant award from the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County and the Federal Transportation Adminis- tration last August to repair and replace approxi- mately 2,000 square yards of sidewalks through the city, targeting areas with bus stop connections and high foot trac, such as the recreational center and senior center. The entire project will be broken down into four dierent sections, with each component being completed before moving to the next one, according to a July 7 city update. Queens Constructors began work in early July for sections one and four of the project, located just north of University Boulevard. The rst phase

Phase 1

Phase 4

Cohen Taylor. The discussion

facilities that city ocials were seeking voter approval for renovation funding under a $15 million bond that did not pass in the May election. More details The purpose of the task force will be to gather comprehensive data about how the three facilities are being used and create detailed reports on current usage patterns, resident and non-resident usage and potential space constraints. What residents should know The task force will consist of eight residents,

UNIVERSITY BLVD.

Phase 3

Phase 2

Council member Catherine Lewis was the only council member to vote against the motion. She said she’s worried that two terms isn’t enough time for people to adequately serve on the boards and commissions. During the same meeting, 29 new board and commission appointees were approved by the City Council. However, Mayor Gus Pappas said the reduced term limits won’t apply to the new appointees.

BELLAIRE BLVD.

SOURCES: IDS ENGINEERING GROUP, WEST UNIVERSITY PLACECOMMUNITY IMPACT

four on each side of the Prop D election, and involve stakeholders from the community. According to a July 28 agenda item, council members will interview candidates interested in joining the group through September. The task force will have three months from the date of its rst meeting, undetermined as of press time, to complete its work.

is estimated to be complete by August, with the entire project scheduled to be done by the end of 2025, city ocials said. What residents should know Homeowners directly aected by the project will receive a letter in the mail with more details. Residents are also being advised to clear roadways.

BUFFALO SPEEDWAY 9733 Buffalo Speedway (713) 838-7486

HOLCOMBE 2314 W Holcombe Blvd (713) 669-1722

WESLAYAN 3902 Bissonnet (713) 218-8144