This week, Westchase District President and CEO Irma Sanchez was featured on Houston Life, where she highlighted the unique qualities that make Westchase District an exceptional place to live, work and play. During her live segment on KPRC-TV’s popular lifestyle program, Sanchez provided insights into the District’s many amenities, ongoing development projects, and the vision behind Westchase District’s transformation.

A key focus of the segment was the District’s growth into a connected, trail-linked community with parks that serve both residents and local employees. With more than 100 restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisines, Westchase District has become not only a thriving business hub but also a vibrant neighborhood where residents and visitors can explore diverse dining options, many from locally-owned, family-run restaurants.

Sanchez also discussed the District’s commitment to public infrastructure, especially through the development of new parks and trails that have enhanced its appeal. Looking ahead, Camden Park is set to open in April 2025, expanding recreational opportunities in the community.

For those who missed the live broadcast, you can watch the segment here.

If you’re thinking, “It’s been a long time coming,” you’re absolutely right. Thanks to CenterPoint Energy for activating the traffic signals at Westheimer and Briarpark recently. This is the last part of Westchase District’s $16 million project to enhance the streetscape along Westheimer Road between Westerland and Kirkwood.

Onsite conditions made this intersection particularly tricky, but with help from the City of Houston and Council Member Mary Nan Huffman, the intersection is close to completion. TxDOT (the project manager) and Harper Brothers Construction (the general contractor) are now onsite to install the pavers and landscape the intersection. The previously existing span wires have been replaced by mast arms — which are more attractive and more reliable — at all the intersections in Westchase District. The project also included sidewalk improvements, custom bus shelters, pedestrian lighting and landscaping. All the intersections are also now ADA-compliant. More than 50 property owners along Westheimer donated easements to accommodate the ADA improvements.

Westchase District’s Walnut Bend Reconstruction Project received recognition through West Houston Association’s Mobility Recognition Program. This program celebrates transportation projects that enhance safety, connectivity, resiliency, economic development and community integration across the region.

The Walnut Bend project transformed a 1.1-mile stretch between Westpark and Westheimer, improving walkability, multimodal transportation options, and safety. Key features included roadway reconstruction, new and upgraded underground utility, new bike lanes, wider sidewalks, functional landscaping, pedestrian lighting, pedestrian crossings connected to the trail system and upgraded bus stops.

Jim Webb, CEO of The Goodman Corporation and WHA board member, presented the award. During his presentation, he praised Westchase District for the project, saying, “The project helped to create an area identity and character, while creating a true ‘complete street.’ Walnut Bend’s successful project has increased area property values, improved multifamily occupancy rates, and enhanced overall community well-being.”

The project also incorporated context-sensitive design elements such as wayfinding signage, ADA compliant crosswalks, and an increased tree canopy. “By recognizing projects like Walnut Bend, we are promoting a culture that values transportation improvements and encourages continued investment in our region’s mobility infrastructure,” Webb added.

Irma Sanchez, president and CEO of Westchase District, expressed her pride in the project’s impact: “This award underscores our commitment to safety, connectivity, mobility and beautification. The Walnut Bend project is a great example of how thoughtful design can benefit both residents and businesses, and we are honored to be recognized for these efforts.”

Fox Trap Restaurant & Lounge has quickly become one of Westchase District’s newest go-to spots for dining and entertainment. Located at 11470 Westheimer Rd., Fox Trap is the brainchild of Houston native Dorwin Samuel who aimed to create a premium space combining the lively atmosphere of a sports bar with the sophistication of a lounge.

“My goal was to create something truly next-level,” says Samuel. “We’ve combined the excitement of a sports bar with the elegance of an ultra-lounge, offering a unique space where guests can enjoy every game in a luxurious setting with exceptional food and amazing hospitality.”

The spacious 9,500-square-foot venue features three main areas: a fine dining room, a sports bar area with pool and ping pong tables, and a large outdoor patio with 15 TVs. Altogether, Fox Trap displays more than 50 TVs, so sports fans won’t miss a second of the action. Regular events, including watch parties for major games and live comedy shows, keep the atmosphere fun and make it a perfect spot to gather with friends.

New Orleans native and Executive Chef Jimmie Farley brings Southern flavors to the menu with specialties like spicy jambalaya, shrimp and crab Alfredo and boudin egg rolls. In addition to brunch favorites, the restaurant offers signature cocktails including a grilled pineapple margarita and espresso martini.

With private rooms, corporate event spaces and a stage for live performances, Fox Trap is set to become a Westchase District staple for sports fans. The restaurant is open daily from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. with happy hour from 3-7 p.m.

A long-time friend of Westchase District returned recently to address the quarterly meeting of the Public Safety Alliance. Former HPD Chief Larry Satterwhite now serves as Director of Public Safety and Homeland Security for the City of Houston. In this role, he is responsible for coordinating all homeland security activities among all City departments, emergency management, disaster response, the City’s 9-1-1 call center and Houston’s Community Emergency Response Team.

Satterwhite is well known in Westchase District. He previously served as Westchase District’s liaison to HPD and the officers who work for Westchase District Patrol. He offered an update on his new job responsibilities to an informal group of property managers, hotel managers, building owners and retail store owners. The Westchase District Public Safety Alliance, led by Mark Hubenak, vice president of public safety, meets regularly to address topics of mutual concern and hear from guest speakers about emerging trends in safety and security. 

Southbound Frontage Road Improvements Underway

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is undertaking an important repaving project along the Beltway 8 Southbound Frontage Road, between Westheimer and Harwin, aimed at keeping this well-traveled route in top condition.

This project, which aligns with TxDOT’s commitment to proactive maintenance, ensures that road surfaces are preserved before they deteriorate, minimizing potential issues like potholes and creating smoother, safer commutes for drivers.

As part of this effort, the two inside lanes on the southbound frontage road are closed. These improvements will follow similar updates made earlier this year to the northbound lanes.

For those who usually enter Beltway 8 southbound from Westheimer, it’s worth noting that the entrance ramp just south of Westheimer is also closed at the moment. Drivers are advised to access the frontage road from Del Monte and use the southbound entrance ramp near CityWest. Alternatively, to bypass construction traffic, Rogerdale Road offers direct access to Richmond Avenue, Westpark Drive, and Harwin.

As construction timelines can change, stay updated by visiting the Houston TranStar website here. We appreciate TXDOT’s dedication to maintaining our roads.