Keep Up With What’s Happening in Our Community

Dear District K Neighbors:

As we welcome the month of July, I hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable Independence Day spent with family, friends, and neighbors as we celebrated the spirit of community that makes District K so special. This season reminds us not only to celebrate our community and the progress we’ve made together, but also to remain prepared for the months ahead.

Across District K, exciting work continues to move forward. From infrastructure improvements and neighborhood investments to community partnerships and quality-of-life initiatives, we remain committed to building stronger, safer, and more connected neighborhoods for every resident.

As hurricane season continues, I also encourage everyone to take time to review your family’s emergency plans, assemble emergency supplies, and stay informed through trusted local resources.

Inside this month’s edition, you’ll find updates on community projects, transportation improvements, upcoming events, public safety reminders, and resources designed to help keep you informed and engaged.

In Service,
Martha


District K: In the Community
QuikTrip ribbon cutting

Ribbon Cutting & Expanding Convenient Services for Residents

District K staff joined community leaders in celebrating the grand opening and ribbon-cutting of QuikTrip’s newest Houston location at 9696 Main Street.

The event highlighted continued investment in Southwest Houston, bringing expanded services, convenience, and economic opportunity to the community. District K is proud to welcome businesses that contribute to the growth and vitality of our neighborhoods.

District K Director of Constituent Services and Field Operations, Eric D. Goodwine Sr., delivered remarks during the QuikTrip ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“Strong communities are built through partnerships that invest in people, inspire pride, and create opportunities for future generations.”
— Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum


Jarred Vanderbilt Foundation 6th Annual Backpack Giveaway
Jarred Vanderbilt Foundation backpack giveaway flyer

The first day of school will be here before you know it! The Jarred Vanderbilt Foundation, founded by Houston native and NBA player Jarred Vanderbilt, is helping families prepare with a community event featuring FREE resources for back to school.

  • FREE Backpacks & School Supplies
  • FREE Haircuts
  • FREE Groceries
  • Prizes & Food
  • FREE Youth STEM Drone Sessions
  • …and so much more!

Date: August 1, 2026
Time: 10AM–2PM
Where: Marian Park, 11000 S. Gessner Rd, Houston, TX 77071


Mayor’s Back 2 School & Health Fair
Mayor back to school and health fair

Families are invited to register for the Mayor’s Back 2 School & Health Fair, a free event designed to help students prepare for the upcoming school year. Registered students may receive backpacks with school supplies, routine immunizations, vision and dental screenings, and other valuable health resources while supplies last.

Date: Saturday, August 1, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: George R. Brown Convention Center

Advance registration is required. Click here to register your student.


Planning Commission
Planning mapSite map

Hillcroft Business Park, Plat 2026-0916

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the plat application 2026-0916 Hillcroft Business Park, located at 13940 Hillcroft Ave., Houston, TX 77085, along Hillcroft Ave and Sims Bayou, between Hillcroft Ave. and Carlsbad St, in the Fondren Civic Club Community.

Planning Commission Meeting:
Thursday, July 23, 2026, at 2:30 PM
City Hall Annex Building, 900 Bagby Street
City Council Chamber, Public Level, Houston, Texas 77002

Residents may attend in person or submit comments by emailing [email protected] at least 24 hours before the meeting.


Major Thoroughfare & Freeway Plan Amendment
City Hall Annex

The City of Houston Planning and Development Department is seeking public input on proposed amendments to the 2026 Major Thoroughfare and Freeway Plan (MTFP), including a proposed amendment that could impact a portion of Vicksburg Boulevard in District K.

Date: Thursday, July 23, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM
Where: City Hall Annex Chambers, 900 Bagby Street

Public comments may be submitted by email now through July 23 to [email protected] or by calling 832-393-6528.

Neighborhood Impact: This proposed amendment may be of particular interest to residents of Quail Glen, Quail Run, and Super Neighborhood #41.


City of Houston Committees

Budget and Fiscal Affairs (BFA) Hybrid City Council Committee Meeting

Date: Monday, July 13, 2026
Time: 10:00 A.M.
Where: Anna Russell Council Chamber at City Hall, 901 Bagby, 2nd Floor, Houston, Texas 77002

The meeting is open to the public and may be viewed virtually via Microsoft Teams videoconference on HTV. Public comments will be accepted in person or virtually. The public may sign up to speak before 5:00 P.M. on Sunday, July 12, 2026.

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, July 14 at 10:00 AM at Council Chambers, 901 Bagby, Second Floor, Houston, Texas 77002.

  • Emergency Telehealth and Navigation (ETHAN) Update & Overview
  • High-Water Rescue Operations Update

For questions, contact Alan Roman, Director of Public Engagement, Vice Mayor Pro-Tem Amy Peck, at [email protected] or 832.393.3010.


The K Perspective: District K in Action

District K’s 2026 Summer Interns

District K’s 2026 Summer Interns recently recorded the first episode of The ‘Terns Podcast at the Dr. Shannon Walker Neighborhood Library in partnership with interns from Houston Public Works.

Watch Episode 1: The ‘Terns Podcast – Houston Public Works

Celebrating Years of Dedicated Service

District K was honored to join the Holly Hall Retirement Community’s Employee Appreciation Luncheon, where District K Chief of Staff Perdita “Didi” Chavis represented Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum in recognizing employees celebrating 40 and 45 years of dedicated service.

Building Connections for Future Growth in District K

District K staff joined community leaders, developers, and business professionals at the Hiram Clarke/Fort Bend Redevelopment Authority’s Developer Networking Reception at The Fountain Life Center in Southwest Houston.


District K Infrastructure Update: West Airport Drainage Improvements
West Airport drainage improvements

Storm Drainage Improvements Underway on West Airport Boulevard

After years of recurring flooding concerns along West Airport Boulevard, long-awaited drainage improvements are now underway.

As part of the FY2026 Local Drainage Program, Houston Public Works has begun storm sewer improvements along the 6000–6100 block of West Airport Boulevard. Construction is expected to continue for approximately 150 days and is designed to improve drainage, reduce flooding, and strengthen infrastructure for residents and businesses in the area.

We appreciate your patience and thank our community for your continued advocacy and partnership in this project.


Weather Wise with District K
Be hurricane readyWeather wise

Hurricane Preparedness & UV Awareness

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.

July is UV Safety Awareness Month

Excessive exposure can cause skin and eye damage. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 1 in 5 Americans develops skin cancer, making it the most common cancer in the US. The good news is that it’s also the most preventable and highly treatable when found early.

Sun Safety Facts | Skin Cancer | CDC
Be Safe in the Sun | Sun and UV Exposure | American Cancer Society

“Summer is a time to enjoy the outdoors, create memories, and spend time with those we love. A little preparation and sun protection can go a long way toward keeping those moments safe and healthy.”
— Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum


ICYMI in District K: Houston Headlines

Local Artist Mural Unveiling

The District K team joined community leaders, the YMCA of Greater Houston, the 5 Corners District, partners, and residents to celebrate the ribbon-cutting and unveiling of a vibrant new community mural at the West Orem YMCA.

Created by local artist Mathieu Jean Baptiste, the mural serves as a lasting symbol of unity, opportunity, and the power of bringing people together.


Future Leaders in Action
Mayor Youth Council flyer

City of Houston Mayor’s Youth Council

Are you a high school student interested in making a difference in your community? The City of Houston Mayor’s Youth Council is now accepting applications for students in grades 9–12.

Participants will have the opportunity to develop leadership and public speaking skills, engage in community service, and serve as a voice for Houston’s youth by working alongside the Mayor’s Office and Houston City Council.

Application Deadline: July 17, 2026

Scan the QR code on the flyer or visit www.houstontx.gov/myc to learn more and apply.


Opportunities in District K
Port Houston Inclusive Procurement Day flyer

Port Houston Inclusive Procurement Day

Local small businesses are invited to connect with Port Houston and learn about upcoming contracting and procurement opportunities during Inclusive Procurement Day.

Date: Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Houston City College Southeast – Learning Hub Building, Room 108, 6815 Rustic Street, Houston, TX 77087

Registration is free but space is limited. Scan the QR code on the flyer to register.


What’s Happening in District K
Congestion management graphicCongestion management video thumbnail

Help Shape the Future of Transportation and Congestion Management in the H-GAC Region

The Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) is developing a plan to reduce traffic and improve mobility in our eight-county region: Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Liberty, Montgomery and Waller.

  • Where and how people travel
  • When and where traffic is worst
  • Problems people face when traveling
  • Ways we can improve travel in our region

Share Your Feedback

Survey closes Wednesday, July 15. To learn more, visit 2026 Congestion Management Plan | Engage HGAC.


2026 Summer Dance Intensive
Summer Dance Intensive flyer

Summer Dance Intensive Is Here!

It’s not too late to register for this one-week session. FBAAD’s Summer Dance Intensive offers hours of dance from Houston’s leading teachers.

Summer Dance Intensive holds one week of intense training three hours/day, allowing dancers the opportunity to level up with three teachers. Classes include Ballet, Hip-Hop, and Contemporary.

Register Here


Dream Con

Date: July 10–12, 2026 | Location: George R. Brown Convention Center

Dream Con is a celebration of gaming, anime, entertainment, entrepreneurship, and community. Founded by RDCWorld, Dream Con brings together fans, creators, professionals, entrepreneurs, artists, and industry leaders for a weekend filled with experiences, connections, and entertainment.

Meet special guests including Issa Rae, legendary voice actors Phil LaMarr and Cree Summer, Carl Jones, Black Power Rangers, gaming personalities, content creators and more.

Get Your Tickets Today


Holly Hall Retirement Community
Holly Hall event flyer

Today’s Needs. Tomorrow’s Changes.

Location: Holly Hall Retirement Community, 2000 Holly Hall St., Houston, TX 77054

This free event is open to all and will feature an expert panel discussion focused on effectively planning and preparing for the aging process.

Topics include planning before a crisis, addressing evolving needs, and choosing a family plan. Attendees will also have an opportunity to participate in a live Q&A and connect with community resources during the vendor fair.

Space is limited, so reserve your seat by scanning the QR code on the flyer or visiting PanelOnAging.Eventbrite.com.