Bay Area Edition | September 2025

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Bay Area Edition VOLUME 8, ISSUE 3 SEPT. 18OCT. 17, 2025

Building barriers

Researchers look at $7B 10K-acre Galveston Bay park for storm surge protection

the impact of hurricanes and other storms and help protect Houston’s vital petrochemical and shipping industries. With other Gulf Coast projects planned—and fund- ing still up in the air—researchers with the SSPEED Center hope this project could be a quicker solution to building defenses within the Gulf Coast area.

builders and economists collaborating through a research hub at Rice University called the Severe Storm Prediction, Education and Evacuation from Disasters, or SSPEED Center, said their biggest fear is a similar disaster happening in the Bay Area. The SSPEED Center team has plans to build up to a 10,000-acre island in the middle of the bay, titled the Galveston Bay Park Plan, to mitigate

BY RACHEL LELAND

During Hurricane Katrina in 2005, an unmoored barge rammed through a breached levee, land- ing in New Orleans’ Lower Ninth Ward—where it crushed homes and cars across several blocks, according to American Society of Civil Engineers reports. Now, a team of local environmental lawyers,

CONTINUED ON 18

Also in this issue

See how Clear Creek ISD performed in its 2024-25 A-F accountability ratings Education 10

Read about Kemah’s new 57-acre nature center and what comes next Development 15

In addition to providing coastal barrier protection in Trinity Bay, ocials hope the new island will serve various recreational purposes. (Courtesy SSPEED Center)

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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

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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 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

Papar Faircloth General Manager pfaircloth@ communityimpact.com

Jesus Verastegui Ronald Winters Account Executive Anita Orellana Senior Managing Editor Matt Stephens Product Manager Martha Risinger Quality Desk Editor Sarah Hernandez

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Jason Culpepper Houston Market President jculpepper@ communityimpact.com

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Impacts

4 SpindleTap Brewery The business specializes in craft beer brands. • Opened July 28 • 7800 Airport Blvd, Houston • www.fly2houston.com 5 Gorjana The brand specializes in bracelets, earrings, rings and charms, and oers more personalized options. • Opened July 30 • 700 Baybrook Mall Drive, Ste. F 100, Friendswood • www.gorjana.com 6 BnX Burgers & Fries The restaurant oers a variety of hamburgers. • Opened July 30 • 601 E. NASA Parkway, Webster • www.bnxburgers.com 7 Flexline Physical Therapy The private performance studio is a fully equipped home gym. • Opened Aug. 1 • 908 Big Bend Drive, League City • www.flexlinept.com 8 Quick Quack Car Wash The business oers traditional touch-free car washes along with free vacuums and dash wipes. • Opened Aug. 7 9 CLS Health Eye Care Center The center oers treatment in laser eye surgery, non- laser vision correction, cataract surgery and eye care. • Opened Aug. 7 • 905 W. Medical Center Blvd., Ste. 101, Webster • https://cls.health/locations/eye-center-clear-lake 10 Farmers Insurance The business oers insurance coverage, along with nancial products like mutual funds and annuities. • Opened Aug. 9 • 1421 NASA Road 1, Houston • www.dontdrivedirty.com

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options, salads, sandwiches and appetizers as well as chicken, steak, veal and seafood entrees. • Opened July 22 • 1804 FM 646 Road, Ste. F, League City • www.adriaticcafe.com 3 Killen’s Barbecue The business is known for its brisket and ribs and has origins in the Pearland area. • Opened July 28 • 7800 Airport Blvd, Houston • www.fly2houston.com

Now open

1 The Exercise Coach The business oers 20-minute, private workouts for all tness levels, including various machines and bio- sensitive training technologies. • Opened July 9 • 1455 FM 646 Road, Ste. 101, League City • www.exercisecoach.com/league-city 2 Adriatic Cafe The Italian grill oers pizzas, pastas, gluten-free

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In the news

11 Lally Nail & Head Spa The business oers manicures, which include services for acrylics, dip powder and gel, as well as pedicures. • Opened Aug. 13 • 1355 W. Bay Area Blvd., Ste. A, Webster • www.lallynailheadspa.com 12 Tiphany’s Catering & Restaurant The restaurant oers salads, gourmet sandwiches and hot dogs. • Opened Aug. 21 • 10000 Emmett F. Lowry Expressway, Ste. 1133, Texas City • www.tiphanyscatering.com 13 Whiskey River South The venue will oer a dance oor, a mechanical bull and food. • Opened Aug. 21 • 1030 W. NASA Parkway, Webster • www.whiskeyrivertexas.com Coming soon 14 Coconut Grove Kemah The restaurant will serve brunch, lunch, dinner and happy hour. • Opening this September • 207 Marina Bay Drive, Kemah • Facebook: Coconut Grove Kemah 15 Beem Light Sauna The infrared sauna uses full-spectrum light that ocials said can create various benets. • Opening Fall 2025 • 2515 S. Gulf Freeway, League City • www.beemlightsauna.com 16 Einstein Bros. Bagels The chain is known for its bagels and baked goods. • Opening early 2026 • 1911 W. League City Parkway, Ste. 200, League City • www.einsteinbros.com

Community Impact Community Impact celebrates 20 years as a company in September. Founded in Pugerville, owners John and Jennifer Garrett launched the rst Community Impact newspaper in the Round Rock-Pugerville market in September 2005 with a cover story about the rst toll roads in the Austin area. Today, the company has more

than 200 employees supporting 40 hyperlocal editions in Texas, printing and distributing more than 2.5 million newspapers a month. Community Impact has a strong print and digital presence, including a daily email newsletter, to serve readers with free news and help local businesses thrive. • www.communityimpact.com

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In the news

17 Donald’s Donuts Seabrook The donut shop added Thai food to its menu in late August. • 3300 Bayport Blvd., Ste. B 80, Seabrook • Facebook: Donald’s Donuts ~ Seabrook

Closings

19 Burger Nation NASA The independently-owned restaurant closed its doors after ve years. It has served burgers, fries and shakes. • Closed July 27 • 1400 NASA Parkway, Ste. F, Houston • Facebook: Burger Nation NASA

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18 Mayahuel Menu items include oysters and specialty tacos. • Opened July 18

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BAY AREA EDITION

Government

League City approves FY 2025-26 budget

League City budgeted capital improvement projects

While some of the projects in the budget may be funded in other years, the official capital program for FY 2025-26 totals $329.6 million.

League City City Council on Sept. 9 approved its fiscal year 2025-26 budget, which will increase operational costs while lowering the tax rate. However, the city also expects a $2.6 million shortfall in its general fund for FY 2025-26, which documents show officials could cover using the city’s fund balance. The details City documents show the operating budget, which covers day-to-day city services, is expected to come in at $194.5 million —up about $8.6 million from last year, according to previous reporting from Community Impact. The budget proposes funding for three additional officer positions that were unfunded last year because a federal grant was not awarded, according to city documents. Another two officers and one sergeant are funded for 2026. A new deputy fire marshal, EMT and cybersecurity engineer are also funded. In total, 10.5 new full-time equivalent

employees totaling around $1 million are funded in the FY 2025-26 budget. What else? The city built the budget using the no-new-reve- nue rate of $0.36355 per $100 valuation of a home. The city’s taxable value is also being reduced due to a $100,000 exemption increase for seniors and disabled residents that the council approved in May, according to city documents. Property tax values also decreased by about 1%. Despite those losses, the city is simultaneously increasing funding for emergency services, drainage and parks. It will also carry out several projects, including a new municipal pool, the city’s streetlight acquisition and a training facility, documents show. Quote of note Mayor Nick Long on Aug. 26 said this budget year was more challenging than previous ones and thanked staff members for their work.

Reinvestment: $8.9M Police, fire, facilities: $1.7M Drainage: $26.6M Parks: $54.6M Streets/Traffic: $91.4M Water/Wastewater: $146.4M

Total $329.6M

SOURCE: LEAGUE CITY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Council member Chad Tressler on Aug. 26 called the homestead exemption increase a “monkey wrench” in the budget process. “To still get this done while providing that relief for our folks who are on a fixed income, y’all are to be commended for that,” Tressler said. Looking ahead The city’s new budget will take effect Oct. 1, according to city documents.

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BY RACHEL LELAND & JAMES T. NORMAN

League City OKs Heritage Signature Trail project After a failed vote in December, the project to build Heritage Signature Trail in League City will now move forward after a split vote. What happened League City City Council voted 4-3 at its Aug. 12 meeting to award a $198,000 design and construc- tion contract to Houston-based Halff Associates to build Heritage Signature Trail, which will connect League Park to Heritage Park. The 8-foot-wide trail will include on-street paths, crosswalk adjustments, signage and trailheads at both parks, as well as a north-south connection along North Kansas Avenue to the Kilgore Tract, according to agenda documents. Those opposed Council member Tommy Cones, who voted against awarding the contract, said he felt the trail

League City adjusts sign ordinance Residents in League City hosting special events will have to adhere to more specific rules when it comes to temporary signage following a vote by City Council at its Aug. 26 meeting. Long story short The new rules create a framework for wind flags, bandit signs and banners at limited special events. Specifically, those hosting special events will be allowed to use such flags—but new rules will keep the signage from being permanent. Rules include needing a permit, limits to how long they can be flown at an event, how many signs and where they must be placed, and specific rules against using them for permanent entities, such as a business, according to the ordinance.

Proposed trail

Existing trail

HERITAGE PARK

SATSUMA ST.

WISCONSIN AVE.

RAILROAD AVE.

LEAGUE PARK

was too wide and would impact nearby properties. “I agree that we have to have trails. I’m not sure if they need to go from park to park,” Cones said. “I’m concerned with the width of the trail. I think that’s one thing that’s driving the taking of the land.” What’s next? The design contract is scheduled to start Aug. 18 and will run through December 2026, according to agenda documents. Construction is expected to take approximately six months.

BAY AREA EDITION

Education

BY JAMES T. NORMAN CONTRIBUTIONS BY HANNAH NORTON & CHLOE YOUNG

Clear Creek ISD receives B in latest 2024-25 accountability ratings

Zooming out

Across the state, 24% of the state’s 1,208 school districts received a higher score in 2024-25 compared to 2023-24, TEA data shows. Meanwhile, 64% kept the same rating and 12% received a lower rating. Of the state’s 9,084 campuses, 31% received a higher grade, while 55% received the same grade and 15% received a lower grade, according to the data. Texas Commissioner of Education Mike Morath said issuing annual A-F ratings helps “our students do better academically,” adding that while the TEA won the two lawsuits challenging the school accountability system, “the parents lost.” “Telling a parent today how well their school did in 2024 doesn’t help them with the supports they need to provide their kid [now],” he told reporters at a press conference Aug. 14. “It is great now to have this tool back to help support our families [and] also support our educators.” Scores for both individual campuses and districts are accessible through the TEA at www.txschools.gov.

Clear Creek ISD scored an 86, or a B, in the state’s annual A-F accountability ratings across both the 2023-24 and 2024-25 school years, according to new data released by the Texas Education Agency. The TEA released the scores following a nearly two-year legal battle between the state and roughly three dozen school districts that sued over the efficacy of changes the state made to the way it calculates the scores. CCISD’s score means the district will retain its letter grade, which has been a B since at least the 2021-22 school year. An 86 is an improvement over the past two years, data shows. CCISD has more than 39,500 students enrolled, according to the TEA. Nearly 36% of the district is considered economically disadvantaged, while more than 16% are considered special education.

Clear Creek ISD campus A-F scores

2023-24

2024-25

0 0 D

0 0 F

Rating

SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Diving in deeper

Statewide district performance

categories, according to the data. Of the district’s 46 schools, 44 received an individual score, according to the TEA. Those that didn’t were the district’s Clear Path Alternative School, and the Harris County Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Program, or JJAEP. All but six of the district’s schools received an A or a B, including all seven of the district’s traditional high schools, according to the data.

According to the TEA, the scores are broken down into three categories: student achieve- ment, which looks at student performance on state tests and graduation rates; school progress, which tracks how students perform over time; and closing the gaps, which looks at how individ- ual groups are performing. Those three categories are also scored on a 100-point scale. CCISD improved its score in all three

2023-24

2024-25

A: 18% B: 31% C: 25% D: 14% F: 8% Not rated: 6%

A: 23% B: 33% C: 24% D: 10% F: 4% Not rated: 6%

NOTE: PERCENTAGES MAY NOT ADD UP TO 100% DUE TO ROUNDING. SOURCE: TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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Education

BY HALEY VELASCO

Clear Creek ISD trustees adopt budget with $12.5M shortfall for FY 2025-26

Clear Creek ISD’s FY 2025-26 budget Total Revenue $416.8M Total Expenses $429.3M

Capital outlay: $30K

Other resources: $2.13M

Clear Creek ISD’s board of trustees on Aug. 25 adopted a budget that projects a $12.5 million shortfall for fiscal year 2025-26. While the tax rate has not yet been adopted, this budget is based on the district’s current tax rate of $0.9690 per $100 valuation of a home, as the district has projected the tax rate for FY 2025-26 will be unchanged. Budget explained CCISD will have $416.8 million in revenues and $429.3 million in expenses, landing the district in a possible shortfall of $12.5 million, according to budget documents. CCISD’s Chief Financial Officer Alice Benzaia noted the district has the following budget challenges: • Student enrollment being below projections

• Nationwide inflation • Inadequate state funding • Unfunded state mandates • Sustainability of current programs

Other operating costs: $10.75M

Federal program: $3.62M

Benzaia confirmed this shortfall is the “worst case scenario,” and the district will continue to attempt to balance the budget throughout the fiscal year. Stay tuned The board will meet at 6 p.m. Sept. 22 at the dis- trict’s Education Support Center, located at 2425 E. Main St., League City, to adopt the district’s tax rate, which is projected to be $0.9690 per $100 valuation of a home. That rate would mean a tax bill of $2,140 for a home valued at $406,000, documents show.

Supplies and materials: $15.37M

State program: $203.42M

Contracted services: $27.9M

Local and intermediate resources: $207.64M

Payroll costs: $375.23M

SOURCE: CLEAR CREEK ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

BAY AREA EDITION

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Education

BY HALEY VELASCO

CCISD preps for space engineering curriculum Clear Creek ISD officials are getting set to launch a new space engineering curriculum for high school students in 2026. The program would be the first of its kind for public schools on a national level, CCISD officials said. The overview This new program will focus on aspects of living and communicating on the moon and Mars, CCISD Coordinator of Innovative Programs Laura Mackay said. Students will also potentially have the chance to earn certain designations and certifi- cates related to the industry. Quote of note “That is not something that’s been done in public school anywhere in the nation, so we are working together with a group of amazing people

San Jacinto College looks for new trustee San Jacinto College is seeking to appoint a new trustee to its vacant Position 5 seat, previously held by John Moon Jr., who died unexpectedly in July. The term runs through May 2027, accord- ing to the college’s website. Long story short Applicants must reside in one of the district’s service areas, which include Chan- nelview, Deer Park, Galena Park, La Porte, Pasadena or Sheldon, for at least six months and in Texas for at least a year, according to requirements posted by the college. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, at least 18, registered voters and free of felony con- victions or findings of mental incompetence. Application details are available on the college’s website.

Program features

• Focus on living and communicating on the moon and Mars

• High school and dual enrollment credit offered • Partner with the NASA Johnson Space Center to potentially offer university certificate • Goal to launch curriculum in 2026

SOURCE: CLEAR CREEK ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

and partners trying to make that a reality to design a new curriculum for our students,” she said. Next steps Before this curriculum launches in 2026, the district has applied for a Texas Space Commission grant, and they are still in the consideration phase, officials said. Along with that, the district has also applied to become a member of the TSC, and if accepted, it will become the first K-12 institution to be a part of the commission.

CCISD trustees approve over $820K in capital projects

Breaking down CCISD's capital funding projects Replacement of outdated/obsolete athletic grounds maintenance equipment: $435,000

be funded through the district’s 2017 bond. The largest portion of that share will replace aging athletic grounds equipment, while new digital marquees will be installed at Brookwood Elementary, Ferguson Elementary, Stewart Elementary and Clear Creek High School. Clear Springs High School will also see improve- ments, including new speed bumps and an electrical gate.

Several Clear Creek ISD schools will receive campus upgrades, such as digital marquees, new speed bumps, an electrical gate and updated athletic grounds maintenance equipment after the board of trustees approved more than $820,400 in capital projects at its Aug. 25 meeting. The gist According to board documents, all projects will

New digital marquees at multiple schools: $229,034

New speed bumps at CSHS: $66,349 New electrical gate at CSHS: $90,061

SOURCE: CLEAR CREEK ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

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BAY AREA EDITION

Environment

Development

BY JAMES T. NORMAN

Kemah completes rst 2 of 9 possible phases of 57-acre, $4M nature park

Funding expected soon for Clear Creek, Dickinson Bayou ood study

2017

Looking ahead

Hurricane Harvey hits Houston

Local ocials begin working toward watershed study

2019

Saldaña said the project has nine phases ostensibly planned, which leaves seven left to carry out. The plan is to complete one phase per year with an annual budget of $500,000. However, some factors could change that. A possible $750,000 grant from the city could speed up work, but future leaders on the Kemah Community Development Corporation could also opt against certain phases. In the meantime, the current plan calls for several additional amenities, according to Kemah’s website. Those include: • A boardwalk over the wetlands • No-mow wildflower mix and native grasses • Wildlife and learning features “I think it will be the No. 1 nature park in Galveston County,” Saldaña said.

First phase wraps up

2022

June - Ocials receive support from USACE to carry out phase 2 Fall - Cities approve funding for second phase

It took less than a year to build out its rst two phases, but Kemah City Council member Isaac Saldaña said the city’s new 57-acre nature park was two decades in the making. Ocials cut the ribbon in July on the rst two of nine planned phases for the area, which ocials hope will help promote ecotourism, Community Impact previously reported. Saldaña said he wants it to serve as a place for locals to escape to nature. “We spent a lot of time on the wildlife, the plants, the insects,” Saldaña said. “How can we enhance the area? It was a very detailed, involved process.” The rst two phases broke ground in September 2024 and cost around $1 million, Saldaña said.

Dugie said he expects to come from any number of the 23 counties and cities that have voiced support for it. Dugie said he thinks the need and widespread support will help with future federal and state funding. “I think the math is going to show it’s the right decision,” Dugie said. What’s next? Dugie said ocials should be ready in 2026 to begin discussions with the federal and state govern- ments. A formal request could come in 2027. The study should be wrapped up by 2028, he said, but when construction could begin isn’t known. “They’ve said it takes a long time,” Dugie said. “Since the [1970s], we’ve worked on getting a federal project in our part of the coast. We’re further than we’ve ever been before.”

A number of cities and counties could soon pitch in a total of between $3 million-$5 million for the second phase of a study related to ood projects. If approved in the coming weeks and months, the funding will come a couple of months after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers gave the go-ahead for the study to move forward, Galveston County Commis- sioner Hank Dugie said. The gist The Lower Clear Creek and Dickinson Bayou Water Study completed its rst phase in 2022. While the rst phase was mostly related to creating a list of potential projects and shoring up data, phase two is to research and justify said projects, Dugie said. The cost The study could cost up to $5 million, which

$500K budgeted annually

9 phases with 7 to go

57 acres

2025

2026

Preliminary request is made to state and federal governments

2027

Formal request is made to state and federal governments

2028

Study expected to wrap up

$5M potential total cost for study

Roughly 3 years to carry out study

518 518

KEMAH OAKS DR.

146

PARK OAKS ST.

The park will have a welcome pavilion. (Courtesy city of Kemah)

23 cities and counties support study

11.5K structures possibly impacted in potential ood

BAY OAKS DR.

SOURCE: CITY OF KEMAHCOMMUNITY IMPACT

SOURCES: MULTIPLE CITIESCOMMUNITY IMPACT

BAY AREA 1033 Bay Area Blvd (281) 486-9558

KEMAH 243 FM 2094 (281) 538-9095 SEABROOK 3126 Nasa Pkwy (281) 326-5127

LEAGUE CITY 196 Gulf Fwy S (281) 316-2140

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Transportation

BY RACHEL LELAND

League City OKs $650K in road projects • Why it matters: This is the first phase of a larger traffic signal reconstruction program designed to modernize older intersections throughout League City. UPS battery backups at intersections

UPS battery backups at intersections FM 518 at Country Lane intersection improvements

CLEAR LAKE

146

League City City Council approved several road and transportation projects at its Aug. 26 meeting. The details The projects will include intersection work, new battery backups at various intersections and new illuminated street signs, documents show. Some of those items include: FM 518 at Country Lane intersection Improvements • Scope: This is a full intersection rebuild at FM 518 and Country Lane, including signal upgrades, mast arm installation and safety enhancements. • Contractor: Statewide Traffic Signal Company • Cost: $458,457 construction contract • Timeline: The contractor must begin within 10 days of receiving notice to proceed, with a completion period of 320 days.

518

SOUTH SHORE BLVD.

518

• Scope: This project includes the purchase and installation of 13 uninterruptible power supply battery backup systems with remote monitoring at major intersections across League City. • Vendor: Paradigm Traffic Systems, Inc. • Cost: $92,430 • Why it matters: Battery backups keep traffic lights operational during power outages, improving safety and reducing post-storm recovery time. Internally illuminated street name signs • Scope: This project includes the purchase of 24 internally illuminated street name signs through a BuyBoard cooperative contract.

COUNTRY LN.

646

517

SOURCE: LEAGUE CITY/COMMUNITY IMPACT

• Vendor: Paradigm Traffic Systems, Inc. • Cost: $98,200

• Why it matters: The signs improve nighttime visibility and help drivers navigate more safely.

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BAY AREA EDITION

Building barriers From the cover

The big picture

Elements of the Galveston Bay Park Plan

Blake Eskew, chief economic consultant with the SSPEED Center team, cautioned that the estimated $7 billion park plan is still speculative. Eskew views the GBPP, which was announced by Rice University in May, as a “backstop” to the nearby Coastal Texas Project. That $57 billion project is being carried out by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, but could take around two decades to build out. While the Coastal Texas Project protects against many storms, Eskew said more extreme storms could push farther west into the less protected Galveston Bay. That is where the Galveston Bay project could help. “The potential economic and environmental damage from those kinds of storms is so vast that ... it is prudent to design at a higher level,” Eskew said. Jim Blackburn, an environmental lawyer who leads the GBPP, also warned of “rapid intensication,” when storms strengthen dramatically overnight. He pointed to Hurricane Harvey in 2017 as an example. Documents show that dredging of the bay provides clay soil to build a 25-foot levee along the ship channel with navigation openings and, eventually, a gate system. Blackburn said the barrier would serve as protection and recreational space for the area and would be completed in phases. Yet, Joanie Steinhaus, ocean program director of Turtle Island Restoration Network, questions whether the project is technically feasible, noting that nothing like the proposed mid-bay barrier or gate system has ever been built before. “I don’t know if a project like … [the GBPP] has ever been constructed,” Steinhaus said.

330

Small craft access

Main gate

TRINITY BAY

Private land access

Houston-Galveston industrial complex & west-side protection to 25 feet

Galveston Bay Park

Texas City levee raised to 25 feet

Backside levee around Galveston (USACE)

146

Double dune shoreline protections (USACE)

GALVESTON BAY

Houston Ship Channel gate (USACE)

GALVESTON BAY

GALVESTON ISLAND

SOURCE: SSPEED CENTERCOMMUNITY IMPACT

the surrounding areas and ecosystems, Eskew said. Blackburn also emphasized the stakes. “My biggest concern is that if those industries get hit by a big storm like that, without adequate protection, we’ll have the worst environmental disaster in the United States’ history,” Blackburn said. On the other hand, skeptics like Bob Stokes, president of the Galveston Bay Foundation, have concerns about the project’s potential environ- mental consequences. “Any massive infrastructure project … could very easily wind up impacting salinity,” Stokes said. “It could wind up impacting ow. By deni- tion, it’s this massive footprint.”

The local impact

Protecting local industries

6,000 above-ground storage tanks

The GBPP would protect the western side of Galveston Bay, particularly the Houston Ship Channel, which has tens of billions of dollars of industrial infrastructure—what Eskew described as the “lion’s share” of the bay’s economic value. Eskew estimates that replacing the area’s petrochemical and rening facilities in high-risk areas could cost $50 billion. Collectively, reneries in the area have 6,000 above-ground storage tanks with a combined capacity of 10 billion gallons of chemicals. If storm surge were to rupture those tanks, leakage into the bay could cause catastrophic damage to

10B gallons of chemicals

$50B in potential damages to the Houston area’s petrochemical and rening facilities

Project could protect against up to Category 4 hurricane

SOURCE: SSPEED CENTERCOMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY RACHEL LELAND

The timeline

How it works

A May report raised the projected cost from $4.5 billion to $7 billion, accounting for 20% in unforeseen costs and 30% in permitting fees. At present, however, no funding exists for full construction. Eskew said he hopes the project could secure $3 billion through the Coastal Texas Project, with the remainder potentially supported by the state. “Because the state has committed to providing 35% of funds for the coastal barrier project, they will provide a similar portion for the GBPP,” Eskew said. Critics of this funding structure, including Steinhaus, said the proposed funding structure requires local communities to shoulder the burden of protecting the petrochemical and shipping industries, which should invest more in fortifying their own infrastructure. “Why are we, the general public and our tax dollars, responsible for funding protection for them?” Steinhaus said. “They should be required to fortify their own facilities. … It should not be a burden for people that live in these communities.” Meanwhile, the park is still in its early planning stages. Even if the funding for the project is approved and dispensed, coastal residents and local petrochemical and shipping industries won’t see protection in place until the early 2030s, with completion at least a decade out. The construction schedule also depends on Port Houston’s Project 12, which begins in 2031 and will widen the ship channel, documents show.

Levee construction with dredged material

Parkland & environmental enhancements

Navigation gates

Phase 1

Phase 2

Phase 3

Over time, continued dredging and disposal would allow the creation of between 5,000 and 10,000 acres of parkland along the bay. This new land would serve as a public recreation space and habitat enhancement in addition to helping protect from storm surge. The timeline would be gradual, giving time to monitor ecological impacts, such as oyster migration and bay circulation.

As part of a separate project related to the Houston Ship Channel, the channel would be deepened by removing sediment from the bottom of the bay. The dredged material would be used to build a 25-foot levee along the length of the ship channel. This levee would provide initial surge protection while maintaining openings for water circulation and small boat access.

Smaller gates would be added at circulation and access channels. A large storm surge gate across the Houston Ship Channel would be built in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, as part of the Coastal Texas Project. This phase turns the levee into a functioning barrier system against major storm surges.

SOURCE: SSPEED CENTERCOMMUNITY IMPACT

What they’re saying

Put in perspective

All told, ocials hope such a project, when paired with the Coastal Texas Project, would cre- ate layered protection for both the Galveston Bay and the surrounding waters, especially Galveston Bay’s western side and the Houston Ship Channel— where most of the area’s petrochemical, rening and industrial infrastructure is concentrated. Ocials estimate that with both projects, storm surge from a Category 4 hurricane could be cut in half across the Clear Lake area, Texas City and the Houston Ship Channel. “What we’re talking about for Galveston Bay, ... we’re talking about the largest engineering project in the world,” Blackburn said.

“The Rice University Galveston Bay Park Plan is certainly ambitious. ... We fully support any project that reduces the impact of storm surge and look forward to learning

more details in the future.” NICK LONG, LEAGUE CITY MAYOR

“Protecting lives, property and economic vitality is our mission, and innovative solutions like this could play an important role in achieving that goal.”

Estimated project timeline for Galveston Bay Park Plan

Ocials estimate the coastal projects could reduce storm surge by half in some cases. Potential Category 4 hurricane impact

COALTER BAKER , EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE GULF COAST PROTECTION DISTRICT

2026

2026–2031: Permitting phase expected to take about 5 years, beginning as early as next year 2029–2030: Engineering, initial construction could begin 2031: Port Houston’s Project 12 dredging begins 2037: Full construction build-out projected to be completed

Existing Coastal

Galveston Bay Park Plan

Texas Project

2031

“Frankly, a lot of people don’t know the risk, and I don’t think we talk honestly about these risks, and so I’ve studied those risks, and that’s why I’m working on this project.” JIM BLACKBURN, CODIRECTOR, SSPEED CENTER

2037

Houston ship channel

Clear Lake

Texas City

SOURCE: SSPEED CENTERCOMMUNITY IMPACT

BAY AREA EDITION

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Business

BY ROO MOODY

In her free time, Meyer displays her work at art shows.

The Ceramic and Pottery Center sells seasonal, ready-to-paint pottery for customers not interested in making their own.

PHOTOS BY ROO MOODYCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Pottery shop brings joy of personal art to Bay Area Renee Meyer remembers going to her grandpar- ents’ house in the country as a child and digging up clay from the creeks.

What’s changed Last August, the center moved from its original location in League City to a new, larger storefront in Dickinson. Meyer said she spent a lot of time decorating the space so the new building would feel familiar to returning customers. The impact There’s a joy, Meyer said, she gets when a customer comes back to pick up their art and can’t believe how it turned out. “[Customers say] you must have touched it up, and I’m like, I’ve got way more things to do than touch up everybody’s piece,” Meyer said.

Meyer moved the business to Dickinson in 2024.

Unbeknownst to her, this practice would turn into a full edged business that has now been going strong for three decades. The setup Customers of The Ceramic and Pottery Center can come in and choose an item to paint or create their own piece out of clay. Meyer said they also oer several dierent types of pottery classes, including a class for adults ages 50 and older. She said she enjoys working with such a diverse range of students.

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Events

BY ROO MOODY, JAMES T. NORMAN & HALEY VELASCO

September

Soulfreak Makers Market The market is located in front of Soulfreak Railroad Cafe and will feature more than 30 vendors selling baked goods, jewelry, arts and crafts. • Sept. 20, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. • Free (admission) • League Park, 512 2nd St., League City • www.soulfreak.com/market Tequila and Tacos Festival This festival will have over 72 tequilas and mezcals with 22 mixology stations, handcrafted cocktails and tacos. • Sept. 20, 4-7 p.m. • 215 Kipp Ave., Kemah • $75 (per person) • www.kemahboardwalk.com/tequila-and-tacos Space News & Brews Patrons can drink craft beer and hear the latest news and updates on space exploration at William Price Distilling. • Sept. 20, 2-5 p.m. • 970 Wakefield Drive, Houston • $20 (per ticket, includes one beverage) • www.spacecenter.org Helen Hall Library Got Talent Show The library is hosting its first talent show at the Johnnie Arolfo Civic Center. The winner will receive a gift card and swag bag. Those interested can register at the library’s website. • Sept. 25, 6-8 p.m. • 400 W. Walker St., League City • Free (admission) • www.leaguecitytx.gov Seabrook Saltwater Derby Winners of the fishing competition can win up to $1,000. There are multiple categories, such as heaviest individual red fish and heaviest individual speckled trout. • Sept. 27, 5:30 a.m.-3 p.m. • $110 (entry fee)

Music in the Historic District Hosted by the League City Folk Association and League City Historical Society, the event features music in League Park. Attendees are welcome to bring food, beverages and chairs.

• Sept. 26, 7-10 p.m. • League Park, 512 2nd St., League City • Free (admission) • www.leaguecitytx.gov

costume contest, live music, fortune tellers, crafts and an aerialist performer. • Oct. 11, 6-10 p.m. • Free (admission) • 215 Kipp Ave., Kemah • www.kemahboardwalk.com/witches-night-out Wings Over Houston Airshow The airshow will feature a mix of vintage World War II aircraft with modern aviation, including U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. • Oct. 18-19, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. • $50.05-$778.37 (price depends on ticket, day and package)

October

League City Village Fair Hosted by the League City Lions Club, the event will return for its 69th year and offer live music, a large vendor fair, a farmer’s market, a scavenger hunt, charity raffles and a car show. The event will take place at the Ballpark at League City. • Oct. 3, 5-10 p.m. Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. • $10 (admission) • 1150 Ballpark Way, League City • www.leaguecitylions.org/village-fair Witches Night Out This bewitching celebration will have a witch and wizard

• 11602 Aerospace Ave., Houston • www.wingsoverhouston.com

• 2613 1/2 NASA Parkway, Seabrook • www.seabrooksaltwaterderby.com

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BAY AREA EDITION

Real estate

Residential market data

Number of homes sold

August 2024

August 2025

-55.6%

+37.5%

+8.7%

-21.48%

Fewer homes were sold overall in the Bay Area in August compared to the same month in 2024. Median housing prices varied by ZIP code.

77062

77573

77058

77059

146

Median home sales price

77062

77058

August

2024

2025

GALVESTON BAY

$365,000

$315,000

77058

518

$484,750

$435,000

77059

77573

$312,000

$315,000

77062

$410,000

$402,500

77573

MARKET DATA PROVIDED BY

Average days on market

-34.02%

-6.15%

+52.73%

+9.86%

77058

77059

77062

77573

NOTE: DATA INCLUDES SINGLEFAMILY HOMES, TOWNHOMES AND CONDOMINIUMS.

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Peripheral Neuropathy Breakthrough! “She saved my life!”

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