Major Streetscape Projects Shaping Up
Contractors working on the complete rebuild of Walnut Bend Lane are tackling the punch list now as they finish up this $20 million project. While a lot of that work is unseen by the casual motorist or pedestrian, the installation of the custom bus shelters and trees along the roadway added a wow factor that was previously missing from the project. The 11 transit stops on Walnut Bend all have shelters made of aluminum and…..Read More
Guest Services Attendants Contribute to Positive Park Experience
If you’ve visited Woodchase Park for any of the scheduled events since the park’s October opening, you’ve probably encountered one or more of our Guest Services Attendants (GSA). These newly-hired Westchase District employees are working to make sure guests enjoy their experience at the park. “Our new team members are all exceptional,” said Louis Jullien, parks programming director. “They not only help our programming partners set up their equipment and prepare for their activities, but…..Read More
Celebrate Puppy Love with Pawlentine’s Day at Sneed Dog Park
Approaching its first year anniversary, Sneed Dog Park will truly be for dog lovers on Saturday, Feb. 12. That's when Pawlentine's Day will be celebrated at the park. "Westchase District is home to many pet owners," said Kelly Aylesworth, Westchase District's maintenance director in charge of planning the event. "We want to celebrate the special companionship between dogs and their owners, two days before Valentine's Day. Many of our residents have dogs and we planned this…..Read More
Volunteer at Trails Without Trash on March 26
Save the date for the morning of Saturday, March 26. That's when teams of volunteers from companies and organizations will converge on the Westchase District trail system on a mission to clean up litter during Trails Without Trash from 8 - 10 a.m. Joggers, cyclists, dog walkers and pedestrians regularly enjoy Westchase District's trail system, which begins at Westheimer immediately east of Houston Community College's Hayes Road campus. The trail continues all the way to Art Storey Park south…..Read More
Torchy’s Tacos Heats Up Dining Options in the District
A restaurant concept born in a food trailer in Austin, Texas 15 years ago has heated up the Westchase District dining scene while growing to become a regional favorite in 11 states. Torchy’s Tacos founder Mike Rypka set out to elevate the traditional street taco with unique flavor combinations. Rypka hit the sweet spot with taco lovers, building a menu out of experimental tacos that were coined by early fans as “damn good,” which continues…..Read More
HPD, Westchase District Team Up to Halt Illegal Truck Parking
It is illegal for 18-wheel tractor/trailers to park for more than two hours on any residential street in Houston. It is also illegal for the smaller “box” trucks to park for more than 24 hours on a city street. But if you’ve driven Meadowglen Lane, Elmside Drive or Seagler Road (among others), you know that illegal parking is a chronic problem that interferes with vehicular traffic and pedestrian safety. Westchase District is actively working to curtail…..Read More
Community Impact Award Honorees Selected
As the impact of the pandemic continues to pose challenges for everyday life around the world, the Westchase District Advisory Board (WDAB) recognized three individuals with 2021 Community Impact Awards who propel themselves and their teams into maximizing good in the community here in Westchase District and beyond. Houston Public Library's Jolie Mayfield, Indus Cares Foundation's Avani Narang, and Quillian Center volunteer Darleen Schauer were selected as finalists among numerous nominations by judging panel. A…..Read More
Public Safety Director Loves Keeping People Safe
The second time around for Mark Hubenak has been just as fun as his first tenure. In July, Hubenak rejoined Westchase District to resume his role as public safety director, a position he previously held between 2007 and 2017. During that period, Hubenak helped lead the District to numerous awards and recognition for its public safety programs. Hubenak is one of only three people to hold this position in the District’s history. At the Houstonian…..Read More
UT-Tyler/HCC Partnership Trains Engineers in West Houston
Program grows 700% since its 2012 launch Any West Houston resident who is eyeing a career in engineering need look no further than the corner of Westheimer and Hayes Roads as they consider where to seek their education and training. Houston Community College’s Engineering program offers an opportunity to receive a two year Associates Degree in Engineering Science that is transferable to a four year institution or they can earn a four-year engineering degree at…..Read More
If You Have Time, WHAM Needs You
Ask any organization that relies on volunteers, and they’ll tell you that volunteers greatly augment the impact an organization can have in the community. It’s a win for volunteers too, who gain a sense of connection to others while helping people. West Houston Assistance Ministries (WHAM), an organization devoted to serving people with nowhere to turn, needs more volunteers devoted to its cause. WHAM’s mission has become more paramount as COVID-19 has deepened the financial…..Read More