Dear District K Residents, I hope you and your families are settling into the new school year and enjoying the final weeks of summer. I invite you to take caution with the high temperatures still prevalent and stay cool with the resources provided below. There continues to be a great deal happening across District K, and I’m pleased to share another update on the work underway in our community. From infrastructure and resiliency improvements to public safety resources and opportunities for residents to stay engaged, our focus remains on keeping you informed while continuing to move District K forward. Along with our newsletters and community updates, there are many ways to stay informed about what’s happening in District K. I invite you to visit our YouTube Channel for videos highlighting neighborhood projects, City Council updates, community events, and other important information. We have many great things happening in District K, and I want to make sure you have every opportunity to stay informed, be engaged, and stay connected. As always, thank you for continuing to be an active part of our community and for your continued support. In Service, Martha
A familiar Houston name is back! NRG Stadium and NRG Park are officially returning to the Reliant name once again, becoming Reliant Stadium and Reliant Park. Home to some of Houston’s biggest sporting events, concerts, celebrations and unforgettable moments, the iconic venue sits right here in District K. We’re excited to welcome back a name many Houstonians know well as this landmark enters its next chapter. So, it’s official: Reliant Stadium and Reliant Park are back—and right here in District K. A Houston classic returns! Welcome back, Reliant Stadium and Reliant Park. See more footage from the name change here.
The Houston Police Department’s latest Crime by Council District Report provides an update on crime trends through June 2026. Citywide, both violent and non-violent crime are trending below the same period last year. By the Numbers
Overall, reported offenses included in the citywide comparison decreased 17.7%, from 60,338 in 2025 to 49,681 in 2026. Learn More: View HPD’s full June 2026 Crime by Council District Report for additional information and district-level data.
The City of Houston is developing an action plan for more than $61 million in Community Development Block Grant Mitigation (CDBG-MIT) funding to support projects designed to reduce the impacts of future disasters. Residents are invited to attend an upcoming virtual advisory committee meeting to learn more about the proposed mitigation projects and how this funding may be used across Houston. Meeting Details Date: Tuesday, August 25, 2026 Time: 5:30 PM Location: Virtual Projects Include: Cambridge Village Park/Ramblewood, Frenchtown, Melrose Park Section 2 and Turkey Gully Council Districts: B, C, H and K The funding will focus on local and regional mitigation priorities that provide long-term protection and help reduce risks associated with future disasters. Residents are encouraged to participate and stay informed as plans move forward. More details on the development can be found in the District K In Action Section. Scan the QR code on the flyer to join the virtual meeting.
As part of its Greater Houston Resiliency Initiative, CenterPoint Energy is preparing critical infrastructure upgrades in the Fondren Gardens and Central Southwest areas to strengthen the electric system, improve reliability and help reduce the impact of future outages. WHEN Work will take place throughout August and September, with completion anticipated by mid-October. WHAT TO EXPECT Crews are expected to work Monday–Sunday, 7 a.m.–6 p.m. Residents may see contractor vehicles, traffic control measures and possible road closures. Some crews may require access to private property, and CenterPoint will contact potentially impacted customers and provide advance notice if temporary outages are necessary. Improvements include stronger storm-resilient poles, automation devices, vegetation management, undergrounding power lines at key locations, circuit relocation and power line inspections. The upgrades are designed to strengthen the electric system, improve reliability, reduce the impact of outages and improve restoration times during severe weather. What’s Being Improved
What Residents Can Expect
Questions? Contact [email protected] or visit CenterPoint Energy’s Taking Action webpage for additional information. Please note that the project maps above show approximate work areas. Construction may not occur on every street highlighted.
Exciting progress is underway at Cambridge Village Park/Ramblewood as this important CDBG Mitigation Project nears completion. Project highlights include:
Residents are invited to join the virtual community meeting to hear the latest project updates and learn more about the improvements coming to Cambridge Village Park. Virtual Community Meeting Tuesday, August 25 | 5:30 PM Learn More About the Cambridge Village Park Project Have questions or feedback about this project? Email [email protected] or call 311.
Progress at a Glance Contractors are wrapping up final construction activities designed to improve drainage, recreation, accessibility, and the overall park experience for residents.
Project Update
Houston Public Works has issued Work Authorization No. 29 for upcoming roadway maintenance along portions of Willowbend Boulevard and Polo Street. Project Details
Residents traveling through these areas should be mindful of construction activity and allow extra time as work progresses. Crews will apply a fog seal treatment to help maintain and preserve the asphalt roadway surface.
A major Houston trail connection is officially complete! Houston Parks Board has completed the final segment of the Sims Bayou Greenway beneath SH 288, connecting the entire 20-mile trail for residents to walk, run, bike and explore. The completed greenway stretches from Milby Park near SH 225 to Blue Ridge Park at Hillcroft Avenue, connecting neighborhoods and destinations across Houston, including Houston Botanic Garden, Houston Sports Park, Hill at Sims and more. What this means for our residents: 20 continuous miles of connected trails More opportunities for walking, running and cycling Greater connections to parks, greenspaces and destinations across Houston Another step toward making outdoor recreation more accessible throughout our communities Explore the Sims Bayou Greenway here
Houston City Council has approved Let’s Play Houston, a landmark initiative that will invest nearly $60 million to revitalize 25 neighborhood parks across the city by the end of 2028. The public-private partnership represents the largest investment in neighborhood parks in Houston’s history and will enhance parks in every City Council district, creating safer, more vibrant spaces for families and communities! Project Highlights
See more on this and other projects here and via the HPARD website! “Parks are where communities come together, children create lasting memories, and neighbors build connections. Investments like Let’s Play Houston and Cambridge Village Park reflect our shared commitment to creating vibrant public spaces that improve quality of life for every family in District K.” — Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum
New traffic-calming improvements are coming to Southwest Crossing! Phase A construction began August 10. See more details below. What: New speed cushions and related traffic-calming signage. Where: Locations throughout the Southwest Crossing Phase A project area (see project map). Why: To help reduce vehicle speeds, encourage safer driving, and improve safety along neighborhood streets. When: Construction is scheduled for August 10, 2026, with completion anticipated by November 8, 2026. See the map for planned traffic-calming locations throughout Southwest Crossing.
The Hiram Clarke/Fort Bend Houston Redevelopment Authority is celebrating a major investment in the future of our community: a $500,000 EPA Brownfields Assessment Grant! Over the next three years, the funding will support efforts to identify and assess underused and potentially contaminated properties, helping lay the groundwork for future reinvestment and redevelopment. This investment can help accomplish: Identify properties with potential for revitalization Support future redevelopment and economic growth Transform underused spaces into community assets Strengthen neighborhoods and create new opportunities for investment This is an important step toward ensuring overlooked properties can become part of a stronger, more vibrant future for the Hiram Clarke and Fort Bend Houston communities. Learn More About the EPA Brownfields Assessment Grant
District K continues working with our City partners to address illegal dumping and protect our neighborhoods. Recent enforcement efforts on Court Road resulted in an individual being taken into custody in connection with illegal dumping activity—a reminder that dumping is not only harmful to our communities, but can also carry serious consequences. Our message is simple: District K is committed to cleaner, safer neighborhoods, and we will continue working with residents and our partners to identify problem areas, address illegal dumping, and hold violators accountable. See illegal dumping? Report it to 311 so the appropriate City department can investigate and respond.
Fort Bend ISD is considering new high school programming as part of its FBISD Redesign initiative, including a proposal that would directly impact Willowridge High School in District K. Under the proposal:
There is also encouraging academic news to celebrate. Willowridge High School is projected to receive a “C” accountability rating from the Texas Education Agency based on STAAR results, while Marshall High School is projected to receive a “B.” These projected results reflect the continued work of students, educators, staff and families across both campuses. Stay Informed Because these proposed changes could have a direct impact on District K students and families, we encourage residents to follow Fort Bend ISD for official updates and upcoming opportunities to provide feedback.
District K turned the page on summer with an afternoon filled with books, creativity, learning, and fun at n the Turning Pages, Building Dreams event, hosted by Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum in partnership with Chris’ Library and the Edison Arts Foundation. Families came together at the Edison Cultural Arts Center for a celebration designed to encourage young readers and help prepare students for a successful school year. Children enjoyed free books, activities, family resources, music, games and so much more. This event was about helping our youngest residents dream bigger, discover new experiences and build a lifelong love of reading!! Press play and see how District K turned pages into possibilities! Watch the Turning Pages, Building Dreams Recap here!
Jarred Vanderbilt Foundation 6th Annual Backpack Giveaway District K families also got a head start on the new school year at the 6th Annual Back-to-School Giveaway from the Jarred Vanderbilt Foundation. Founded by Houston native and NBA player Jarred Vanderbilt, the foundation brought families together for a day focused on preparing students with resources and encouragement for a successful year ahead. Students and families received backpacks, school supplies, free haircuts, sports physicals, food, and other community resources helping ensure our young people can walk into the classroom feeling prepared and confident. A special thank you to the Jarred Vanderbilt Foundation and all of the community partners who continue investing in Houston’s students and families. Check out photos and fun from the event below!
Residents came together for the Hiram Clarke/Fort Bend Community Beautification Project to share ideas and provide input on the future of their community. The evening created an opportunity for neighbors to review project concepts, connect with project partners, and discuss priorities for public spaces and neighborhood improvements. Thank you to every resident who showed up and shared their perspective, helping shape what’s next for the community.
District K’s 2026 Summer Interns New Episodes Available! As summer comes to a close, we wish our District K 2026 Summer Interns continued success and thank them for bringing their energy, curiosity, and fresh perspectives to our office and the City of Houston. Their summer may be ending, but there’s still time to catch up on The ’Terns Podcast, watch all seven episodes, and follow their journey through the people and departments that keep Houston moving. ▶️ Watch the full episodes of The ‘Terns Podcast using the YouTube links below.
The City of Houston Housing and Community Development Department (HCD) is preparing to launch the DR24 Single-Family Home Repair Program this August. The $50 million program will help eligible homeowners repair or rebuild homes damaged by the May 2024 Derecho and Hurricane Beryl. What You Should Know
Stay informed! Sign up for updates and learn more at houstontx.gov/hcdrecovery.
“Safety begins with preparation. By staying informed, planning ahead, and supporting one another, we can help ensure that every family is ready for whatever this summer may bring.” — Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum WHATS HAPPENING IN DISTRICT K The Houston Police Department’s Southwest Division invites residents to its upcoming Positive Interaction Program (PIP) Meeting, featuring a special presentation from HPD’s Mental Health Division. Residents will learn how the specialized unit supports individuals and families experiencing mental health challenges through crisis intervention, outreach, specialized training and connections to community resources. Event Details Date: Tuesday, August 25, 2026 Time: 7:00 PM Location: Harold L. Preston Station – HPD Southwest Division Address: 13097 Nitida St., Houston, TX 77045 Cost: Free and open to the public Come hear from HPD’s Mental Health Division, ask questions and learn more about resources available to support community well-being. Light refreshments will be provided.
Community Care with Curb Appeal Looking for a meaningful way to give back to your neighborhood? The Adopt-an-Esplanade Program invites homeowners associations, civic clubs, schools, businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations to help maintain and beautify Houston’s roadway esplanades. By caring for these shared green spaces, volunteers can enhance neighborhood pride, improve safety, support sustainability, and help create a more welcoming community. Program Highlights
Learn more through Scenic Houston or begin the application process by scanning the QR code on the flyer. Visit Scenic Houston’s website or contact HPARD at (832)395-7097 to learn more. Scenic Houston fully supports this community-wide initiative. Let’s keep Houston scenic, together!
Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum is proud to serve as Honorary Chair of L.I.F.E. Houston’s Citywide Formula Drive, taking place throughout September in recognition of Infant Hunger Action Month. The month-long campaign will help provide infant formula and essential nutrition support to Houston families in need. Campaign Details Dates: September 1–30, 2026 Formula collection locations and volunteer opportunities will be announced soon. Sponsorship and community participation opportunities will also be available. Save the date and stay tuned for more information on how you can join Mayor Pro Tem Castex-Tatum and L.I.F.E. Houston in helping feed Houston’s youngest residents.
In recognition of Suicide Prevention Month, the community is invited to come together for an evening of remembrance, prayer, support, and hope. Hosted by Fort Bend Transformation Church and the City of Missouri City, the Proclamation & Prayer Vigil will provide an opportunity to stand together in support of suicide prevention and mental health awareness. Event Details Date: Thursday, September 10, 2026 Time: 6:00 PM Location: Missouri City Hall – Outdoor Plaza 1522 Texas Parkway, Missouri City, TX 77489 Save the date and join our community as we gather in support of hope, healing, and one another.
Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, and now is the time, if you haven’t already, to prepare. District K residents are encouraged to review their emergency plans, build or restock emergency supply kits, and stay informed through trusted local resources. We also encourage you to sign up for emergency alerts and explore preparedness resources available through the sites listed below: City of Houston Office of Emergency Management (OEM) Ready Harris (for Harris County Residents) Fort Bend County Homeland Security & Emergency Management State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) (for individuals who may need additional assistance during emergencies)
The Houston area has dangerously hot summers, and sometimes spring and fall temperatures as well. Houston is ranked as the fourth most intense city in the U.S. for urban heat island intensity. Knowing heat safety precautions and how to recognize heat-related illnesses can help save you or someone else. For Heat, Watch, Warning and Advisory Criteria, visit the National Weather Service. Cooling Center Map located below can also be viewed here.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR EXTREME HEAT:
Cooling Center Map located below can also be viewed here. WHAT TO DO IF SOMEONE IS EXPERIENCING HEAT ILLNESS SYMPTOMS:
|
