(From left to right: Ruben Perez, Evelyn Martinez and John Estrada)
The newly-formed projects team at Westchase District has hit the ground running with a to-do list that’s growing faster than the District’s landscaping.
At the helm is John Estrada, senior projects manager, a man who probably dreams in spreadsheets. Estrada returned to Westchase District in March 2024, having served previously as an intern for the District. With a master’s degree in engineering from LSU, Estrada’s expertise lies in managing capital improvement projects, coordinating logistics, and navigating easements and applications.
“I love solving problems,” Estrada said. “Just recently, a neighborhood association had an issue with a large hole in the ground. I took pictures, sent them to the right folks, and within a few days, CenterPoint came out and fixed it. It’s rewarding to know our work improves the quality of life for people in the community.”
Estrada’s teammates agree that his experience and leadership make him an effective mentor. “When I started, I didn’t have experience in this field,” said Ruben Perez, who took on the role of field services manager in September 2024. “John has been very patient in showing me the ropes, teaching me what I need to know to manage things out here.”
The eyes of Westchase
Perez is, quite literally, the eyes of the District. His role requires him to monitor and maintain everything from light poles and irrigation systems to the general condition of parks and trails. Perez starts his day at Woodchase Park, ensuring that it’s clean and ready for visitors. Then, he moves through the District to spot any issues, file 311 reports with the city, and report damaged assets to the police. Perez and Martinez also conduct regular “night drives” to check lighting and update colors on monument signs.
“Each day is different, and I like that I get to know the community,” Perez said. “This job has me out in the field constantly, and it’s never boring.”
Master of maintenance and organization
Evelyn Martinez, projects manager, jumped in with both feet — and probably a new highlighter or two — to keep the District running smoothly. As the newest addition to the team in September 2024, Martinez brings a background in ophthalmology and a minor in sustainability to the table. She previously worked as a summer intern for the District. Martinez coordinates vendors, manages budgets for landscape and beautification, and oversees maintenance tasks.
“I like a good challenge,” Martinez said. “Every day there’s something new to figure out, whether it’s buying a utility vehicle or arranging for graffiti removal.”
Martinez emphasizes that teamwork and communication are the secret ingredients to their success. “Our jobs are so interconnected that we really rely on each other to keep things moving,” she explained. “When one person advances a project, it sets the next person up to take it over and keep it on track. We plan ahead and make sure we’re always in sync.”
The team operates like a well-oiled machine: Estrada tackles projects in the planning or execution phase, and once they’re completed, they get handed off to Martinez and Perez for maintenance.
Westchase President and CEO Irma Sanchez could not be more proud of her new team, stating, “This team has brought fresh energy and a clear focus on improvement. I’m excited to see how they continue to streamline our projects and maintenance efforts.”
Staying organized, staying ahead
To keep track of all their responsibilities, the team uses spreadsheets and checklists, breaking down tasks into steps and documenting each completion date. “I make sure to notate each step, so we have a timeline and know when to follow up,” Martinez said. “It keeps us on top of everything and helps us see progress.”
Whether it’s a large construction project, a bus shelter update, a maintenance repair, or keeping parks and trails in top shape, Westchase District’s projects team is on it — one to-do list item at a time.
