There was a time when traveling by automobile in the City of Houston, we could get most places in 20 minutes. Those days are long gone with our growing population in Houston and its surrounding areas. A commute during peak hours of travel nowadays could take an hour or longer on some freeways.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has been planning the reconstruction and redesign of the I-45 downtown corridor, known as the North Houston Highway Improvement Project (I-45 NHHIP), for the past 15 years. It will change the look of the freeways as we have known them to be since the 1960s.
Earlier this month, I arranged a community meeting with TxDOT, Houston Housing Authority, Harris County Commissioner Precinct 1, Central Houston and several City of Houston departments, to address the concerns of the residents that may be impacted by the upcoming construction plans. Many property owners agree the expansion is needed, but concerns were raised regarding the design that will affect many residential homeowners, places of worship, commercial properties and the renters living in affordable housing communities like Clayton Homes and Kelly Village.
With more than 125 people at the community meeting in the Fifth Ward Multi-Service Center, attendees were encouraged to voice their concerns. TxDOT District Engineer Quincy Allen listened intently to all residents’ concerns and offered to come back to the table to see if there are better ways to help residents who would possibly be displaced. He offered to come back to Fifth Ward to host a workshop so residents can see if their home would be impacted and if so, how.
The TxDOT Community Workshop will be held on Wednesday, August 28, 2019 at the Fifth Ward Multi-Service Center, 4014 Market St., Houston, TX 77020, from 4-7 pm.
TxDOT has a spotty history on community relations, especially in minority neighborhoods. I am encouraged by their willingness to offer this workshop to truly work to build a relationship and help these residents who would be impacted by this project. I encourage everyone to attend this very informative follow-up workshop for a better understanding of the proposed project. Learn more at http://www.ih45northandmore.com.
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
