The e-edition is an exact replica of the newspaper with interactive and searchable articles from all your favorite sections.
Bellaire Meyerland West University Edition VOLUME 7, ISSUE 5 SEPT. 6 OCT. 6, 2025
Bellaire to start Cy press Ditch P roject after decades of ghting oods
INSIDE
14
BY KEVIN VU
$110M Total project cost
After years of sustaining constant damage by ooding from hurricanes and other extreme weather events, the city of Bellaire is working to mitigate future ooding through the $110 million Cypress Ditch Improvements Project. The project is in the design phase, with construction starting this year.
End of 2025 Construction starts
9,500 ft. Size of the ditch
KEY
Channel crossings: Structures that will allow vehicles and pedestrians to pass over the ditch
Outfall at Brays Bayou: The point where the ditch discharges the water into the bayou
Required stormwater detention: The amount of stormwater runo that must be temporarily stored to prevent ooding and erosion
Cypress ditch widening
SOURCES: U.S. FOREST SERVICE, HARRIS COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT, HOUSTON PUBLIC WORKS COMMUNITY IMPACT
B E E C H N U T S T .
610
Also in this issue
Dive into important information regarding Bellaire, West University’s budget plans for FY 2025-26 Government 8
12
Check out how Harris County o cials are transforming Burnett Bayland Park near Gulfton Development
N
IN TEXAS AND A TOP RANKED HOSPITAL IN THE NATION Houston Methodist Hospital
THAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PRACTICING MEDICINE AND LEADING IT. FOR YOU.
houstonmethodist.org/bestintexas 713.790.3333
2
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Houston’s Comeback — Stronger Than Ever.
Thank You, Houston This is a high-five to every student, teacher, parent, and partner — this is your victory. Together, we are Houston ISD — and we’re just getting started. High-fives to the unstoppable students of Houston ISD! Your hard work has led to real academic gains. With the support of our dedicated teachers and families, Houston students are proving what’s possible. Houston ISD is on the rise.
“This is The Houston Comeback! Just two years ago, our students were significantly behind the rest of the state. Today, nearly three out of four of our schools are rated A or B, and no student in HISD attends an F-rated school. For the first time, geography no longer dictates destiny in HISD. These results reflect the hard work and commitment of our students, families, and educators, and I want to congratulate them on this remarkable achievement.” - Mike Miles
The Comeback Is On — Catch the stories behind the scores Watch student spotlights, school success, and more anytime at YouTube.com/@HISDNOW
3
BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
Doctors that handle your ups and downs. Coordinated care that helps keep you rolling. Welcome to the best of both worlds.
seniors.kelsey-seybold.com | 713-442-8526 (TTY: 711)
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. Calling this number will direct you to a licensed insurance agent. You can contact Medicare Advantage health plans directly for information about the plans they offer. Kelsey-Seybold Clinic accepts patients with Medicare Advantage plans. Not all plans accepted. Call for details. ©2025 Kelsey-Seybold Clinic. All rights reserved. KSSFPCI_1059V1
4
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.
Market leaders & metro team
Reporters Jovanna Aguilar Angela Bonilla Sarah Brager Melissa Enaje Valeria Escobar Wesley Gardner Rachel Leland Emily Lincke Roo Moody Tomer Ronen Nichaela Shaheen Haley Velasco Kevin Vu Julianna Washburn Graphic Designers Richard Galvan Ellen Jackson Matt Mills
Chloe Mathis General Manager cmathis@ communityimpact.com
Jesus Verastegui Ronald Winters Senior Managing Editor Matt Stephens Product Manager Martha Risinger Quality Desk Editor Sarah Hernandez
Cassandra Jenkins Editor cjenkins@ communityimpact.com
Jason Culpepper Houston Market President jculpepper@ communityimpact.com
Contact us
16300 Northwest Freeway Jersey Village, TX 77040 • 281 469 6181 CI Careers
We've teamed up to bring you more of the stories you care about.
communityimpact.com/careers linkedin.com/company/communityimpact bmwnews@communityimpact.com bmwads@communityimpact.com communityimpact.com/advertising communityimpact.com/newsletter
© 2025 Community Impact Co. All rights reserved. No reproduction of any portion of this issue is allowed without written permission from the publisher.
Proudly printed by
Press releases
Advertising
Email newsletters
Learn Chess at Texas Chess Center Bellaire!
EXPERIENCE PERSONALIZED CARE with the Compounding Shop Pharmacy Team.
Classes for Kids | Summer Camps Weekly Tournaments
20% OFF Compounded medication for new patients
All skill levels welcome! Group Class Program available!
Compounding Shop Pharmacy Serving Texas since 1982 www.mycompoundingshop.com Serving Texas Since 1982 | www.mycompoundingshop.com 11845 Wilcrest Dr Houston, TX 77031 | 281-495-2230 Compounding Shop Pharmacy
4007 Bellaire Blvd, Suite HH, Houston
5
BELLAIRE MEYERLAND WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
Impacts
Coming soon
STEEPLE WAY BLVD.
8 13
T HEIMERRD.
8 Pvolve Using low-impact functional movement with resistance- based training, members build strength, flexibility and balance at this workout studio. • Opening in fall • 5000 Westheimer Road, Ste. 108, Houston • https://app.pvolve.com/locations/houston-galleria
7
12
4
290
C H M
O N
69
KELVIN DR.
1
WHEELER AVE.
59
West University Place
11
14
15 N. MACGREGOR WAY
TIMES BLVD.
What’s next
10
UNIVERSITY BLVD.
ELLAIRE BLVD.
HERMANN PARK
Bellaire
9
9 Dynamic Sports Medicine According to a project filing by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, construction is set to start on the new clinic in September. The practice specializes in treating individuals recovering from injuries using techniques such as cupping, compression and dry needling. • 4032 Bellaire Blvd., West University Place • www.dynamicsportsmedicine.com 10 Figs Selling scrubs and other products for healthcare professionals, such as masks and stethoscopes, the store is anticipated to open in Rice Village in late 2025, according to TDLR. • 2401 Times Blvd., Ste. 130, Houston • www.wearfigs.com
GREENBRIAR DR.
16
288
W. HOLCOMBE BLVD.
6
DR.
BUFFALO SPEEDWAY
610
BEECHNUT ST.
3
Meyerland
90
BRAYS BAYOU
5
MAP NOT TO SCALE TM; © 2025 COMMUNITY IMPACT CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
S. POST OAK RD.
N
2
5 D1 Training Bellaire The membership-based athletic training facility offers programs for various age groups and skill levels, including beginners and college athletes. Updated every eight weeks, the program includes dynamic warm-ups, performance and strength training, core work and conditioning. • Opened Aug. 16 • 5300 N. Braeswood Blvd., Ste. 44, Houston • www.d1training.com/bellaire/ 6 University Federal Credit Union The full-service branch servicing UTHealth Houston faculty, staff and students, as well as the broader Texas Medical Center community, will include a modern environment with self-service amenities, private consultation areas and 24/7 ATM access. • Opened Aug. 4 • 7000 Fannin St., Houston • www.ufcu.org 7 Upper Kirby Eyecare by Vision Source According to its website, the clinic utilizes advanced diagnostic technology to enhance vision and treat a range of vision-related problems. The space also sells designer lenses and frames. • Opened July 20 • 2055 Westheimer Road, Ste. 125, Houston • www.upperkirbyeyecare.com CodaPet The veterinarian-owned startup expanded to the Houston area in August. The mobile business offers in-home euthanasia for pets and helps with aftercare, transportation and cremation. • Opened Aug. 1 • www.codapet.com
Now open
1 Parlor Doughnuts The craft doughnut and coffee shop offers unique layered doughnuts with flavors such as maple bacon, strawberry shortcake and jelly-filled. Gluten, vegan and keto options are also available. • Opened late August • 5150 Buffalo Speedway, Ste. 90, Houston • www.parlordoughnuts.com 2 Mexicano Restaurant Owner of kosher pizza restaurant Rafaello Pizza & Coffee, Kfir Azaria, opened this new kosher Mexican restaurant concept near the Meyerland area, which includes a fusion of Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine. • Opened Aug. 10 • 9804 Hillcroft St., Houston • www.mexicanorestaurant.com 3 Sysco To-Go Global food distribution company Sysco Corporation launched a second to-go store in Houston. The retail store sells a diverse range of food items to food truck vendors, local restaurants, small businesses and caterers in the area. • Opened July 23 • 1212 Old Spanish Trail, Houston • www.sysco.com 4 Reformation The LA-based fashion brand sells sustainable, vintage- inspired pieces such as dresses, denim, shoes and handbags, with an emphasis on flattering, feminine fits. • Opened Aug. 6 • 5085 Westheimer Road, #C25555, Houston • www.thereformation.com
Relocations
11 Gulf Coast Cosmos Comics Owner Byron Canady relocated his comic book store from Stuart Street to Wheeler Avenue in August. The Black-owned business sells a collection of independent and mainstream comics, as well as fan art, gifts and apparel. • Relocated July 12 • 2408 Wheeler Ave., Houston • www.gcccomicshtx.com 12 Planetary Cycles The bike shop relocated from West University Place to Cy-Fair in July to offer a more engaging layout. The shop sold a range of bicycles from children’s bikes to mountain bikes. • Relocated July 9 • 8301 Jones Road, Ste. 110, Houston • www.planetarycycles.com 13 Marmi Shoes The local shoe store franchise closed its storefront in Highland Village and reopened at The Centre at Post Oak shopping center in late August. The brand is known for its diverse selection of shoe sizes. • Relocated late August • 5000 Westheimer Road, Ste. 590, Houston • www.marmishoes.com
6
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY COMMUNITY IMPACT STAFF
In the news
Closings
Now open
14 Milton’s Starting on Labor Day weekend, the Italian restaurant from Benjy Levit is now open on Sundays from 4-9 p.m. Owners of the establishment said the extended day and hours come after a year of popular demand. The restaurant also celebrated 30 years in business on Sept. 9. • 5117 Kelvin Drive, Ste. 200, Houston • www.miltonandlees.com Shipley Do-Nuts The Houston-based donut and kolache company was acquired by Levine Leichtman Capital Partners in July. However, Shipley will continue to operate from its Houston headquarters under existing CEO Flynn Dekker. • www.shipleydonuts.com United States Postal Service Founded in 1775, the postal service celebrates its 250th anniversary this year with new stamps and merchandise, including unique booklets, a coffee table book, T-shirts
15 Hermann Park Golf Course The popular municipal golf course near the Texas Medical Center is now closed as the city and private partnerships begin major renovations. The $30 million project will take approximately two years to complete and includes expanding course amenities and redesigning the layout. • Closed Sept. 1 • 2155 N. MacGregor Way, Houston • www.hermannparkgc.com
16 Le Kream Trending for its homemade kream bombs, the popular pastry shop makes cube-shaped croissants filled with creams like tiramisu, matcha, strawberry and chocolate. The shop also offers spanners, a type of Australian coffee with two shots of espresso, unique flavors and whipped cream. • Opened July 10
and stamp sheets. • www.usps.com
• 9393 Bellaire Blvd, Bellaire • Instagram: le_kream_houston
7
BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
Government
Bellaire’s $139M budget prioritizes capital projects
West U sets public hearing for budget West University Place City Council and staff are considering collecting additional revenue compared to last year through a proposed tax rate that would account for rising costs and potential growth in service demands. What you need to know The proposed 2025 property tax rate— which was unanimously approved by City Council—is a 3.5% increase over the no-new-revenue rate, or $0.229441 per $100 of home valuation, according to agenda documents. Officials said the extra revenue would maintain current service levels in operations. A public hearing will take place Sept. 15 at the city’s municipal building, with budget adoption slated for Sept. 22.
Citino said the rise in capital improvement funds is due to grants and state support. City infrastructure projects in the funds include: • $7.2 million: Public works building remodel • $2.7 million: Bellaire lift station installation • $600,000: Evergreen Park improvements • $228,000: Parks Master Plan The budget is expected to be adopted Sept. 15.
Bellaire officials laid out the city’s proposed $139 million budget for fiscal year 2025-26 during a July 21 City Council meeting. It’s more than double FY 2024-25’s budget of $52 million. The details City Manager Sharon Citino said the increase is due to the city prioritizing capital improvement projects, which increased to nearly $83 million, a jump from the $2 million allocated in FY 2024-25.
Proposed FY 2025-26 budget general fund The city’s proposed $139 million budget includes a $30 million general fund, with 45% of the general fund going toward public safety departments.
Police: $9.28M
Public Works:
City administration:
$4.45M
$1.63M
Parks & recreation: $5.07M
Library: $848K
Finance & courts: $2.44M
Legal: $201K
Fire: $4.48M
Development services:
$1.76M
SOURCE: CITY OF BELLAIRE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
BAYOU CITY ART FESTIVAL OCT 10-12 MEMORIAL PARK S. PICNIC LANE
FRI - SUN 10 AM - 6 PM 2 0 2 5
FEATURED ARTIST JONAH BALLARD
n 250 National & International Artists n 19 Disciplines of Art n Live Music & Entertainment n Active Imagination Zone n VIP Hospitality Lounge n Art Installations & Exhibits n Food Truck Park n Craft Beer Garden
TICKETS ON SALE NOW | BAYOUCITYARTFESTIVAL.COM
8
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY MELISSA ENAJE & KEVIN VU
Harris County expands nonviolent 911 program Harris County’s nonviolent 911 response program was approved for countywide implemen- tation, including all unincorporated areas, after Harris County commissioners passed the agenda item with a 3-1 vote Aug. 7. Precinct 3 Commis- sioner Tom Ramsey cast the dissenting vote. The impact Harris County resident Mia Hernandez told Har- ris County commissioners Aug. 7 how critical the 911 nonviolent response program expansion was to her family when her son experienced a mental health crisis at home in the summer of 2023. “Officers calmly responded while the unarmed mental health professional engaged my son,” Hernandez said. “He assessed him and recom- mended that [my son] be taken to [Harris County Psychiatric Center], not to jail.”
County tax hike proposal scrapped With a noon deadline Aug. 7 to potentially let voters decide on a 1-cent property tax increase to fund early childhood education programs in Harris County ultimately failed without commissioners’ support. The Harris County Commissioners Court agenda item was presented by Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo. How we got here Hidalgo proposed the property tax increase to fund early childhood education initiatives, including the Early Reach pro- gram, the federally funded early childhood education pilot program launched in June 2023 using American Rescue Plan Act funds. The proposal needed approval from commissioners before qualifying for the November ballot.
The pilot program that led to the countywide expansion was launched in 2022. Since the program’s launch, HART officials have: Holistic Assistance Response Team
2,100 deputy hours freed for violent crime response
More than 4,500 non-violent calls diverted 2,834 residents received on-scene care
More than 21,000 total dispatch calls and response efforts addressed
With the program expansion, at least 18 staff positions will be funded within the county’s public health divisions.
SOURCES: HARRIS COUNTY, HARRIS COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH, HOLISTIC ASSISTANCE RESPONSE TEAM DASHBOARD/COMMUNITY IMPACT
The cost The approved program expansion and staffing will cost an estimated $6.6 million from the Harris County Public Health fiscal year 2025-26 budget.
PET EXAM FOR FREE! GET YOUR FIRST
BOOK NOW
Free first exam for new clients at Sunset Animal Hospital. Not valid with any other offer. Not redeemable for cash. Limit one per household.
SunsetAnytime.com
(713) 526-5881
2959 Southwest Fwy | Houston, TX
9
BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
Education
BY WESLEY GARDNER
HISD touts zero failing campuses in state’s A-F accountability ratings
Some context
Elementary and middle school ratings are largely based on the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, which students begin taking in third grade. High school ratings are based on the STAAR and how well students are prepared for success after graduation. State law requires that annual A-F ratings be issued by Aug. 15 of each year; however, the 2024 ratings were blocked for nearly one year after 33 school districts sued the TEA last August, arguing that the agency made it “mathematically impossi- ble” for some schools to earn a high score. Texas’ 15th Court of Appeals ruled in July that the 2024 ratings could be released, which were issued alongside the 2025 ratings. “Millions of dollars and thousands of hours of work by teachers, administrators and experts have been invested in creating the A-F ratings system; courts can decide only whether it is legal, not whether it is wise or fair, much less commandeer the job of running it,” Chief Justice Scott Brister said.
Houston ISD received a C for the 2023-24 school year and a B for the 2024-25 school year in the Texas Education Agency’s accountability ratings for school districts statewide. The ratings were released Aug. 15 after a legal battle that began nearly two years prior. Texas schools are rated on an A-F scale based on three different categories—student achievement, school progress and closing the gaps. HISD received 79 out of 100 points for 2023-24 and 82 out of 100 points for 2024-25, TEA data shows. The improvement marks a 10-point jump from the district’s score of 72 for the 2022-23 school year, TEA data shows. In June 2023, the TEA appointed HISD Superintendent Mike Miles and a board of managers to lead the district after Wheatley High School posted five consecutive failing grades in the ratings.
Houston ISD campus A-F scores
2023-24
2024-25
124
109
73
59
53 54
29
18
11
0
F
B
C
A
D
Rating
SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Put in perspective
Statewide district performance
2024-25
2023-24
Across the state, most school districts and campuses maintained or improved their A-F ratings between the 2023-24 and the 2024-25 school years. Of Texas’ 1,208 school districts, 24% received a higher rating, while 64% kept the same rating and 12% received a lower rating, TEA data shows.
TEA data shows that in HISD for the 2024-25 school year, 73 campuses earned an A, 124 earned a B, 54 earned a C and 18 earned a D. None earned an F. “We have 80,000 more students attending A and B schools this year than there were a few years ago,” Miles said. “The kids have done remarkably well.”
A: 23% B: 33% C: 24% D: 10% F: 4% Not rated: 6%
A: 18% B: 31% C: 25% D: 14% F: 8% Not rated: 6%
of Texans take action after reading Community Impact—and 76% say our ads help them discover new products and services. 83% NOTE: PERCENTAGES MAY NOT ADD UP TO 100% DUE TO ROUNDING. SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT
Contact us! ads@communityimpact.com Want results like that for your business?
Learn More
Dr. Eloy Cavazos
10
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Transportation
BY MELISSA ENAJE & KEVIN VU
Reconstruction of west side roads kicks off A multiphase, multiyear roadway reconstruc- tion project to address longstanding street damage in West U’s west side is moving forward after City Council unanimously approved more than $216,000 in design contract work with IDS Engi- neering Group at the Aug. 11 City Council meeting. The entire project cost was listed at $2.89 million in the city’s fiscal year 2024-25 budget. Funding the project The approved contract is below the city’s budgeted amount of $241,000 within its Capital Improvement Program, according to the agenda. City Manager Dave Beach said for the project’s construction phase, staff is looking into potential federal grant funding with local state representa- tives. While funding sources are being allocated, Beach said they are preparing for the project to be “shovel-ready” so it can proceed quickly if and
HISD students to ride METRO for free The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County and Houston ISD have part- nered up to provide free transportation for all high school students for the 2025-2026 academic year, according to an Aug. 5 news release. The collaboration aims to increase access to education, after-school activities, jobs and essential services while helping families save on transportation. How it works Students who sign up to use METRO will receive a preloaded METRO Q Fare Card through their school administrators to ride local buses, METRORail and curb2curb at no cost, per the release. Families can contact their student’s school administration to request a Metro Q Card.
Phase 1 (2026)
Phase 2 (2027)
Phase 3 (2028)
Phase 4 (2029)
Phase 5 (2030)
SWARTHMORE ST.
CASE ST.
BYRON ST. OBERLIN ST. VILLANOVA ST. MARQUETTE ST. FAIRHAVEN ST.
RILEY ST.
RUSKIN ST.
BELLAIRE BLVD.
CASON ST.
N
SOURCE: WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
when grant money becomes available. Public Works Director Michael Leech said the project includes replacing older panels along the streets, which have started to crack along their slabs, indicative of infrastructure management replacement practices. Design work is estimated for completion by June 2026, with construction starting afterwards.
11
BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
Development
BY MELISSA ENAJE
Park makeover aims to transform Gulfton green space in 2026
County’s rst crisis response facility for at-risk children coming to Gulfton
Children without placement in Harris County, 2020 2024 Approximately 100 children per month, on average, are placed in temporary, unlicensed housing solutions until a suitable placement can be secured.
Revitalization and expansion e orts within Burnett Bayland Park in Gulfton, spearheaded by Harris County Precinct 4, is moving forward after a June groundbreaking marked the beginning of long-awaited investments in green space, equity and community in the neighborhood. The framework According to Precinct 4 master plan documents, the long-term vision for the park includes expand- ing its footprint from 32 to 75 acres. The project will aim to transform the park with various initiatives identi ed in the planning process, including: • Creating safe pedestrian crossings and wide, well-lit trails • Planting more native trees and expanding shade • Adding new pickleball courts • Providing a new community center • A designated food truck, farmers market space
The timeline Phase 1 encompasses the southern portion of the park and began construction in April with a projected completion date of April 2026, according to project details. Phase 2 will include the northwest side of the park and is slated to begin construction in the fall of 2026. Phase 3 will be for the northeast section of the park and is expected to begin con- struction in mid-2026. Funding the project Phase 1 will cost an estimated $27 million in funding, with Phase 2 at $22.6 million, which includes a $11.3 million federal grant, according to Harris County Precinct 4’s o ce. However, Precinct 4 and county engineer o cials are continuing to work with partners to build a funding plan to implement the full vision of the plan. As of press time, the cost for Phase 3 was not available.
5,000
Harris County is in the process of building its rst crisis center for children at risk of entering the foster care system. The new facility, slated for completion in summer 2027, will be located within Gulfton’s
Commission on July 10 to fund the construction of the new county facility. It will provide temporary, short-term housing and wraparound services for up to 16 children without placement, for up to 30 days. Children de ned as “CWOP” by the Texas Depart- ment of Family and Protective Services are children who have been removed from their homes but await placement from the state to a licensed facility. Once the 30 days pass, the stage agency assumes custody of the children. Going forward Precinct 4 o cials said grant funding will also cover renovation costs for an existing park facility that will be utilized while the new facility undergoes construction. Renovations on the existing facility are projected for completion by early 2026.
+69.69%
4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 0
Burnett Bayland Park. What they’re saying
Burnett Bayland Park’s expansion leverages Harris County’s real estate assets.
The program will be operated under The Harris Center, the county’s behavioral care department. Public A airs Director Amanda Jones said in a July news release that the new facility is a partnership between multiple county and state entities. “This new facility will better serve some of the most vulnerable youth,” Jones said. The cost Harris County commissioners approved an $8 mil- lion grant from the Texas Health and Human Services
2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
SOURCE: TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF FAMILY AND PROTECTIVE SERVICES COMMUNITY IMPACT
RENDERING COURTESY HARRIS COUNTY PRECINCT 4 COMMISSIONER’S OFFICE
GULFTON ST.
Children and Youth Services The program will run out of a temporary, renovated facility until the new facility location is secured and built, Precinct 4 o cials said.
GULFTON ST.
BURNETT BAYLAND PARK
BURNETT BAYLAND PARK
ELMST.
N
N
N
Bellaire to start Cypress Ditch Project after decades of ghting oods From the cover
The details
Channel changes
Current channel
A wider ditch with steeper banks will slow down the speed of ood waters and reduce the height of the water in the ditch.
City Engineer Beth Jones said Cypress Ditch serves as the primary storm drainage channel for all of Bellaire and portions of Gulfton. Jones said the drainage project will expand the ditch’s overall stormwater capacity by making the side slopes steeper and reconstructing the lined portion of the channel—the physical depression or bed through which the body of water is situated— between South Rice Avenue and Brays Bayou. The city will also improve the natural channel section between Chimney Rock Road and South Rice Avenue, increasing the amount of water that can ow out to Brays Bayou. The project will also include the construction of two stormwater detention ponds, with the south detention pond located on the 13-acre Beechnut Tract, which the city acquired from Houston through a land swap deal in July. The north detention pond is located by the city’s Southwest Wastewater Treatment Plant, Jones said. The two detention ponds will help slow down water ow as it travels toward Brays Bayou. According to the Harris County Flood Control District’s website, stormwater detention is a way to store damaging oodwaters temporarily until the channels can safely carry the water away.
CYPRESS DITCH
Future channel
The Cypress Ditch project will decrease ood risk to Bellaire by:
Increasing channel capacity by 60%
Improving channel crossings, or the physical depression or bed through which the body of water is situated Increasing outfall capacity, or the amount of flood and rainwater the ditch can contain Facilitating future neighborhood drainage improvements
Cypress Ditch begins about 50 feet east of Chimney Rock Road and ows eastward to Brays Bayou.
KEVIN VU COMMUNITY IMPACT
SOURCE: CITY OF BELLAIRE COMMUNITY IMPACT
Why now?
Notable quote
city officials began brainstorming how to fight back against future flooding, leading to the creation of the Flood Hazard Mitigation Task Force to help develop and brainstorm ideas. “I think that was the biggest challenge,” Pappas said. “What does Bellaire do to bring [the Texas Department of Transportation], Harris County Flood Control District, the city of Houston, the state of Texas and the surrounding cities to actually impact something that we desperately needed?”
Bellaire resident Elaine Schroller said she first moved to the city with her husband in 1988, living nearly 600 feet away from Cypress Ditch in a World War II-era bunga- low that she loved. However, Tropical Storm Allison left two feet of water inside her home, causing her and her husband to decide to tear the house down and build a new two-story home. Sixteen years later, Hurricane Harvey hit, and her home flooded again, leading her to spend $20,000 to remodel the property.
Mayor Gus Pappas said the project has been years in the making after the city was devastated by multiple flooding incidents in the past two decades. “I started living here in 1998, and within three years we had [Tropical Storm] Allison in 2001,” Pap- pas said. “There were houses that were affected, and they were flooded. Because we’re so close to Brays Bayou, when it backs up, it backs up right into us.” Right after Hurricane Harvey in 2017, which Pappas said affected nearly 2,000 Bellaire homes,
Bellaire currently has about 6,000 homes, with 95% located in the 30- year flood plain, which is an area at risk of being flooded during a 30-year period, according to the nonprofit First Street.
Flooding impact on Bellaire homes, 2001-2017
“I really appreciate the efforts of Bellaire City Council to push this through and work with the surrounding areas. I really appreciate the efforts of all of the people and entities … to work together to get this thing done.”
May 25, 2015 Memorial Day Flood
June 4, 2001 Tropical Storm Allison
April 15, 2016 2016 Tax Day Flood
Aug. 25, 2017 Hurricane Harvey
33% of homes impacted
65% of homes impacted
25% of homes impacted
33% of homes impacted
ELAINE SCHROLLER, BELLAIRE RESIDENT
SOURCES: CITY OF BELLAIRE, FIRST STREET/COMMUNITY IMPACT
14
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
BY KEVIN VU
What else?
Funding the project
Looking ahead
Bellaire and Houston also agreed to a land swap deal in July to help improve flood mitigation. Bellaire acquired the Beechnut Tract—used primarily for Bellaire’s Southwest Wastewater Treat- ment Plant north of Brays Bayou—for $6.46 million, which City Manager Sharon Citino said the city will demolish to build a new detention area. Houston acquired the Ruffino Tract, which is located along the southern bank of Keegans Bayou and served Bellaire as a municipal landfill in the ‘90s, to turn it into a flood detention zone.
Jones said the city received numerous funding sources for the $110 million proj- ect, including funding from a $40 million bond referendum approved by voters in November 2024. “The citizens were willing to back [the project], and put money into leading it,” Citino said. “I don’t think we would have been able to be where we are now had we not said we’ll lead it, we’ll be the lead agency and we’ll take this on.”
Jones said the city is in the design and planning phase for the Cypress Ditch project. City officials are aiming to demolish the Beechnut Tract site in December and immediately start constructing the south detention pond by early next year. The final step will include constructing the north detention pond, Jones said, as the city aims to decommission the wastewater treatment plant located north of Brays Bayou. The item, Pappas said, will be voted on at a future City Council meeting. “We’re trying to be more resilient,” Jones said. “With very proactive building codes and the improvement of Cypress Ditch, these are big steps to living with the water and the storm events that we are just going to have these days.”
Beechnut Tract 13.15 acres
Ruffino Tract 76 acres
Cypress Ditch Improvements Project funding
$54M: State of Texas $40M: Bellaire bond $15M: Harris County Flood Control District $1M: Federal government
KEEGANS BAYOU
BEECHNUT S
Total $110M
69
N. BRAESWOOD BLVD. N
L F O
N
SOURCES: CITY OF HOUSTON, CITY OF BELLAIRE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
SOURCE: CITY OF BELLAIRE/COMMUNITY IMPACT
LIVE LIFE WITHOUT COMPROMISE
Choosing the right senior living community is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Care and safety come first, but lifestyle and independence are important too. At Belmont Village, you’ll find it all. An experienced staff, 24/7 licensed nurses, award-winning enrichment and memory programs in a luxurious and attentive environment. And unlike most, we build, own, and operate all of our communities. So residents can count on the continuity of those high standards, never compromising on the things that matter.
BelmontVillage.com/WestUniversity | 832-583-2925
WEST UNIVERSITY
©2025 Belmont Village, L.P. | ALF 030197
15
BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
Events
BY ROO MOODY
for collectibles, merchandise and artwork. • Sept. 20-21, 10 a.m. • Tickets range from $12 (kids) to $165 (VIP) • NRG Park, 1 Fannin St., Houston • www.nrgpark.com
September
Brew at the Zoo Adults 21 and older can go to the Houston Zoo and enjoy live music, animal showings, activities and games while drinking craft ale, seltzers and ciders. • Sept. 12, 6:30-10 p.m. • $39 event pass, $129 VIP pass • 6200 Hermann Park Drive, Houston • www.houstonzoo.org Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration The Children’s Museum Houston is hosting an all-day celebration of Hispanic heritage. The day will feature arts and crafts, storytimes and a live mariachi band in honor of the special month. • Sept. 13, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. • $19.95 per ticket • 1500 Binz St., Houston • www.cmhouston.org/events/hispanic-heritage- celebration Celebrity Comic Con The pop culture celebration will feature a cosplay contest, a gaming and esports zone, celebrity panels and a large marketplace, where attendees can shop
Bellaire Foodie Fest The Bellaire Business Association is hosting the festival for local foodies to benefit the Bellaire Police & Fire Foundation. Attendees will have the opportunity to try an unlimited amount of free food samples from local businesses and enjoy live music and cooking demonstrations. • Sept. 27, 5:30-8 p.m. • $40 adult admission, $20 child admission Dia de la Hispanidad The Institute of Hispanic Culture of Houston is sponsoring Latin America in The Americas, a performance about four different parts of Latin America. The show will feature Latin American culture through dance, music and audiovisuals. • Sept. 27, 7:30 p.m. • Free • 6000 Hermann Park Drive, Houston • www.milleroutdoortheatre.com • 7008 S. Rice Ave., Bellaire • www.bellairefoodiefest.com
Viet Cultural Fest 2025 This annual celebration of Vietnamese-American culture brings together thousands of attendees at NRG Stadium for Miss Teen Viet Cultural Fest, art displays and cultural food staples. The festival is organized by the Vietnamese Culture and Science Association, with this year’s theme being “Gratitude to Those Who Paved the Way.” • Sept. 20, 10-7 p.m. • $15 general admission, $12 senior admission • NRG Park, 1 Fannin St., Houston • www.vietculturalfest.org
346-230-2667
16
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Dining
BY ROO MOODY
Rossa Room has eight signature cocktails, along with a list of classic cocktails, mocktails and wine.
Gelato Rossa o ers 16 avors, including specialty avors such as key lime pie and raspberry stracciatella.
PHOTOS BY ROO MOODY COMMUNITY IMPACT
Gelato Rossa serves fresh avors, high-end cocktails Gelato Rossa uses only the purest and freshest ingredients in its gelato and produces fresh wa e cones and pu pastries daily while avoiding arti cial sugars and dyes. What’s on the menu Something to note There is more to Gelato Rossa than just desserts, as an Italian-themed speakeasy called the Rossa Room hides behind a white sliding door within the gelato shop.
Director of Operations Naveen Nayak joined the company two years ago to oversee development.
69
Rossa Room Speakeasy opened in August 2024 and is known for serving high-quality cocktails in a beautiful setting, Director of Operations Naveen Nayak said. Only premium liquor is served at the speakeasy’s bar, he said, which is re ected in the price of the cocktails. Customers can also eat dinner at the Rossa Room, as the speakeasy has a small menu full of artisanal pieces, such as shrimp and pork rolls, as well as artisan cheeseboards.
Created by Michael May and Greg Wheeler, Gelato Rossa typically sells 16 avors at a time, with six to eight of those being specialty avors. The most popular avors available are strac- ciatella, Belgian chocolate, Madagascan vanilla and cookies and cream. Another favorite avor is Sicilian pistachio, whose ingredients are imported from Italy. The store can also top the gelato with homemade zeppole, a type of Italian cream pu .
610
N
4564 Bissonnet St., Bellaire www.gelato-rossa.com
Your Social Calendar, Simplified! Visit Community Impact’s new events calendar to attend local happenings, explore hobbies, and meet people.
Start Exploring Today!
17
BELLAIRE MEYERLAND WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
Nonpro t
BY CASSANDRA JENKINS
The Grand Baby Project aids individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia Tonja Moon founded the Houston-based non- pro t The Grand Baby Project in 2022 in memory of her grandmother, Ruby Sims, who struggled with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. “Watching her journey through Alzheimer’s and dementia was especially hard,” Moon said. “She had a baby doll that she loved, and after she died, it felt like God planted a seed in me that I would do something with people who had memory loss and therapy dolls.” About 17 years later, Moon said she started to learn about dementia education through hospice care, studying under a neurologist in Japan, diving into doll therapy and eventually using that knowl- edge to create the nonpro t. About the organization The Grand Baby Project aims to improve the lives of those living with dementia through the innova- tive use of dementia therapy dolls, which, according to the organization’s website, can provide bene ts such as increasing social engagement, emotional well-being, cognitive stimulation, behavioral adjustments and a sense of purpose. Moon said she has seen some unbelievable things when gifting the dolls to patients. “We had a woman in Houston who was in her late 80s and she lived in a senior care community,” she said. “She had lost her ability to verbalize, which is very common as dementia progresses, and her daughter had not heard her voice in over two years. When we gave her [the doll], she began to hum and
Senior care communities can partner with the nonpro t to receive an order of baby dolls for residents.
PHOTOS COURTESY THE GRAND BABY PROJECT
sing. It was incredible.” How it works
The dolls are designed to be dementia-friendly, Moon said, created from handblown soft silicone and without hair, eyelashes or noise, but infused with the scent of baby lotion. Moon said there is a speci c training for giving out the dolls that includes a virtual training plat- form, resource materials and an array of activities to perform with the doll.
Founder Tonja Moon said she has given out over 5,000 therapy dolls since 2022.
www.thegrandbabyproject.org
18
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Real estate
Homes in three of ve local ZIP codes spent fewer days on the market in July 2025 compared to last year, with homes in only two neighborhoods—Braeswood and Meyerland— seeing more days on the market. Residential market data
Number of homes sold
July 2024
July 2025
+25%
0%
+60%
0%
+25%
77005
77025
77030
77096
77401
59
77005
Median home sales price
77401
77030
July
2024
2025
77025
$2,099,500 $765,050 $910,000 $415,000 $1,267,180
$1,750,000 $525,000 $1,112,500 $419,000 $1,150,000
77005
610
77025
77096
90
288
77030
N
77096
77401
MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY
Average days on market -1.22%
Skip the showings and open houses and receive the
+29.31%
-5%
+44.83%
-28.92%
STRONGEST CASH OFFER on your home without the stress.
GET MY OFFER!!
77005
77025
77030
77096
77401
NOTE: DATA INCLUDES SINGLE FAMILY HOMES, TOWNHOMES AND CONDOMINIUMS
Advertise in the Voter Guide
ADS@COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM PRINT + DIGITAL PACKAGES | DIRECT MAIL
19
BELLAIRE MEYERLAND WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
FAMILY • COSMETIC • IMPLANTS • INVISALIGN
$500 Off Invisalign
Con dence, One Splash at a Time. Grand Opening Special: Rice Village First 20 families receive exclusive discounts! Scan or Call (713) 324-2075 to enroll today.
STEVEN F. VAUGHAN, D.D.S., M.A.G.D., A.B.G.D.
KATHY L. O’KEEFE, DDS, MS, PLLC
4562 Bissonnet St. Bellaire, TX 77401 • www.contemporary-dental.com Call for FREE consultation 713-668-9119
Mani/Pedi Combo: $50 + $54 = $104 AND RECEIVE A FREE 10 MIN MASSAGE VALUE AT $15 . 1 COLOR FULLSET PEDI
MANICURES • PEDICURES • ACRYLIC + DIP • EYELASHES FACIALS • WAXING + THREADING
www.plushnailbartx.com 4191 Bellaire Blvd, Suite 175. Houston, TX 77025 713-252-9601
Scan the QR Code to Book an Appointment Online
20
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
NOW OPEN
TIME FOR MOSQUITOES TO BUZZ OFF!
C. Delacro
Great experience from start to finish. Communications throughout the project. Zoysia installation, extensive shrub pruning and new plantings as needed were all top-notch. How best to care for it all with the sprinkler system and Houston weather were much appreciated. Together that is why Heroes Lawn Care of Bellaire earned 5 stars in my book. Thanks, guys!
50% OFF 1ST YEAR MOSQUITO LEGION SERVICE ($40/MONTH SAVINGS) *Cannot be combined with other oers or applied to previous promotions or sales. Other exclusions may apply.
Call (346) 436-6286 to book your appointment today!
TDA ##0945673 TCEQ# #LI0030072
4.7 out of 5 stars on
$69.95 $89.95 FIRST RESPONDERS & MEDICAL HEROES 15% OFF FLUID MAINTENANCE SERVICES!
10% OFF BACK TO SCHOOL COMPLETE VISUAL INSPECTION FREE COMPUTER SCAN
Houston’s Top European Technicians
21
BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
Discover Fall’s Best at Rice Village
As football season kicks off and pumpkin-spice favorites return, Rice Village welcomes you to savor the spirit of fall. From fresh styles to seasonal flavors, our shops and restaurants are here to help you embrace new beginnings and simple joys.
22
COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM
Trusted since 1968
Phil' Comfort Club Service Membership $169 for the First System and $99 for each additional system. (Expires 9/30/2025)
Scan to become a member
$89 Service Call Waived with Repair Limit one coupon per visit. Cannot be combined with any other oer. Residential only. (Expires 9/30/2025)
Discover minimalist 10k & 14k gold jewelry designed to layer, last and live with you forever.
15% Discount For all first-time customer orders Use Promo Code CI15
10%Discount on New System (Expires 9/30/2025)
We oer special financing through Arm www.denochejewels.com
www.bellaireair.com · 713-772-1217
Visit for Gelato and Stay for Wine and Cocktails! An authentic Italian gelateria and a secret speakeasy under one roof.
$5 OFF a minimum purchase of $15 Gelato Rossa Only Exp. 9.30.25
4564 Bissonnet St • Houston, Texas 77401 • www.gelato-rossa.com • 346-493-9932 • 346-493-9932
gelato.rossa rossaroom
23
BELLAIRE - MEYERLAND - WEST UNIVERSITY EDITION
You are in the hands of unparalleled orthopedic care.
Our care revolves around you, to get you back on your game and keep you there. Whether you need relief from tendinitis or a torn ligament, you’ll get the same leading-edge treatments that we provide to the Houston Rockets. To help you come back sooner and stronger. This is orthopedic care designed around you. memorialhermann.org/orthopedics
Advancing health. Personalizing care.
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12-13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24Powered by FlippingBook