West Houston Newcomer & Relocation Guide - 2019 Issue 1 by web-media-group

Cane Island Parkway is now open! The new four-lane, north/south parkway just three minutes from I-10, redefines accessibility. • Homes from $200’s to the millions • Katy ISD • Award-winning builders • Developer of the Year • New Sections Now Open

2100 Cane Island Parkway Katy, Texas www. c a n e i s l a n d . c o m

Visit us online to find out about our incredible amenities & of course our beautiful homes.

LUXURY APARTMENT HOMES

AMLI.com AMLI 2121 | 844-784-2637

AMLI on Eldridge Parkway | 844-500-8258

AMLI River Oaks | 844-415-2204

AMLI City Vista | 855-269-8144

AMLI Memorial Heights | 844-319-8337

AMLI Uptown | 844-439-9608 2013

contents | features Phone: 713-952-1916

15 22

Houston Master-Planned Communities

Senior Housing Options: Assisted Living Communities

Fax: 713-952-1956 info@HoustonNewcomerGuides.com www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com CEO

SPOTLIGHT: Inner Loop Living in Houston

Derek Wright PRESIDENT Kevin Evans VICE PRESIDENT Robert Nusbaum CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erin Hayden Seal

102

Houston-Area Spectator Sports: Sports & Golf

OPERATIONS MANAGER Cecile Adams ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER & PROJECT MANAGER Jill Roe ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Paul Yarbrough Kelly Gajewski Candi Thomas SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Debora Licón

This publication is published and distributed bi-annually by WEB Media Group LLC For advertising information, please call 713-952-1916.

98 102

Although every attempt is made to be as comprehensive and accurate as possible, WEB Media Group LLC is not responsible for any misprints, errors, omissions, deletions, or the accuracy of the information in the publication. WEB Media Group LLC does not accept responsibility for any loss, injury, or inconvenience sustained by anyone using this publication.

300 E. Highland Mall Blvd Suite 395 Austin Texas 78752 Phone: 512-266-2900 www.TexasRelocationGuides.com

“Cancer, our mission is to end you” Bob Harris | Cancer Survivor At MD Anderson Cancer Center, we are the only hospital in Houston focused on one thing: ending cancer. This singular purpose is why we are the nation’s leader in cancer care. From prevention and accurate diagnosis to personalized treatment and innovative clinical trials, our cancer experts are giving patients like Bob Harris every chance for the best possible outcome. Choose MD Anderson first. Call 713-745-9940 or visit FindYourMDAnderson.com.

Ranked one of the top cancer centers in the nation for 29 years by U.S. News & World Report.

Multiple Locations Across HoustonH O U S T O N N E W C O M E R G U I D E S . C O M

contents | sections WELCOME TO HOUSTON • 10

HOUSING + NEIGHBORHOODS • 14

Phone: 713-952-1916 Fax: 713-952-1956

15 Neighborhoods

info@HoustonNewcomerGuides.com

20 Harris County Map

www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com

22 Spotlight: Inner Loop Living PHOTOGRAPHY

THE HOME FRONT • 34

We would like to thank the following

38 Master-Planned Communities

for their contributions:

41 Mortgage Option 43 Cost of Living

EDUCATION IN HOUSTON • 44

The British International School Houston

46 Public Schools

Houston Zoo - Stephanie Adams

50 Private Schools

Rise Communities

62 Higher Education

Kingdom Heights

ACTIVE ADULTS + SENIOR LIVING • 66 69 Senior Housing Options 70 Assisted Living Communities

RELOCATION INFORMATION • 72 73 Moving Companies 74 Utilities

80 International Relocation 82 Places of Worship

HEALTHCARE RESOURCES • 84 86 Moving Medical Tips 87 Finding a Doctor

BUSINESS + COMMUNITY • 88 89 Area Chambers of Commerce 90 Houston by the Numbers

LEISURE + RECREATION • 92 94 98

Röhe and Wright School of the Woods Grace School University of Houston – Victoria Children’s Museum Houston Astros Sam Houston Race Park Texas Renaissance Festival

EDITORIAL We would like to thank the following writers for their editorial contributions to the publication: Joy Oden Cecile Adams

Parks & Attractions

transmitted in any form, by any

Arts and Culture

means, electronic, mechanical,

102 Sports & Golf 106 Calendar of Events 110 Dining & Shopping

Yorkshire Academy Fort Bend Christian Academy

Houston Dynamo

110

Visit Houston

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

photocopying, or otherwise, without the written permission of the Publisher.

WELCOME from

THE CITY OF HOUSTON MAYOR Diversity, Entrepreneurship, Thriving Economy, World-Class Entertainment Just a few of the benefits of living in the Greater Houston area.

Greetings! Let me be the first to welcome you to Houston! You are going to love living here. We are the most diverse City in the nation – a City with an entrepreneurial spirit and a City where you can achieve your dreams. Houston is still the Energy Capital of the World, but our economy has diversified over the years to include technology, medicine and manufacturing and shipping. I invite you to explore all that this great city has to offer. Whether it’s our world-class restaurants, theaters, museums, shopping, thrilling sports teams or the new Independence Plaza at the Johnson Space Center which houses the world’s first and only replica of the space shuttle/carrier, Houston has it all. It all combines together to create the ideal city in which to live, work and play. Houston Newcomer and Relocation Guides can be an invaluable source of information as you prepare for your relocation. It showcases every aspect of living and working in the city of Houston.

We look forward to having you as a Houstonian!

Sincerely,

Sylvester Turner City of Houston Mayor

P.O. Box 1562, Houston, Texas 77251-1562 Telephone – Dial 311 www.houstontx.gov

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

WELCOME from the

CENTRAL & WEST HOUSTON REGION Welcome to Houston! Find your dream home in the Greater Houston area and take advantage of what the community has to offer. Welcome to Houston, Texas — one of the most vibrant and culturally diverse cities in America, with a low cost of living, world-renowned Texas Medical Center, incredible cuisine, and countless arts, entertainment, sports and recreation destinations. As you drive around and familiarize yourself with the Houston area, you’ll no doubt notice license plates from many different states, as the addition of thousands of new jobs over the past few years has drawn people here from all across the U.S.

HAR CENTRAL 3693 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77027 713- 629-1900 Fax: 713- 961-4869

BAY AREA 16903 Buccaneer Lane, Suite 110 Houston, TX 77058 713-629-1900 ext. 750 Fax: 281-486-7530

MONTGOMERY COUNTY 19075 I-45 South, Suite 210 Conroe, TX 77385 713-629-1900 ext. 760 Fax: 936-273-0344

The Houston real estate market has been among the healthiest in the country, offering a wide selection of communities and properties to suit every lifestyle — for those buying or renting. The more than 39,000 members of the Houston Association of REALTORS® (HAR.com) help make the American Dream come true for individuals and families every day. HAR is the nation’s second largest local REALTOR® organization, and our members appreciate that a home is one of the greatest investments you will ever make. More than a million consumers begin searching for their dream home every month on HAR’s award-winning website, HAR.com, which actually showcases property listings for the entire state of Texas. Our site offers user-friendly tools to explore specific properties and their amenities as well as to find detailed information about neighborhoods, schools, businesses and much more. Those same features are available through the free HAR.com app, making your property search convenient while on the go. HAR and the City of Houston also developed the free Houston Living app, which provides instant access to information about Houston’s elected officials, city services and amenities, local events, neighborhood associations and much more. On behalf of HAR, it’s my distinct pleasure to welcome you to Houston. We hope you take advantage of everything our incredible community has to offer. Sincerely,

FORT BEND 6680 Greatwood Pkwy. Sugar Land, TX 77479 713-629-1900 ext. 700 Fax: 281-343-9557

Shannon Cobb Evans 2019 Chair Houston Association of REALTORS®/HAR.com

WELCOME to

CENTRAL & WEST HOUSTON Dear Houston Newcomers,

777 N. Eldridge Pkwy. Ste 270 Houston, TX 77079

On behalf of our fine West Houston and Katy business organizations and our members, it is an honor to welcome you to the area. We are proud of our communities. From Downtown Houston to Katy, you will find outstanding retail centers, fine hotels and restaurants, and excellent recreational opportunities that are all close to home. The vibrant economic climate of the area is second-to-none. International corporations and entrepreneurs alike seek out the many business opportunities the area has to offer. Development within the 610 Loop and along Interstate 10 West, Highway 6, and the Grand Parkway provides unlimited growth potential for emerging, expanding, or relocating companies. From Alief to Spring Branch, West Houston’s business and residential communities are diverse and the possibilities are endless. Westchase has many attractive living options within walking distance of some of Houston’s largest employers. The Energy Corridor’s concentration of worldwide and Houston-based petroleum companies is a tribute to the ambition and drive of the area. Master-planned communities and resale homes in West Houston and Katy continue to meet the housing demands of families relocating to our area with some of the most affordable prices in the country. Homes in the lovely Memorial Villages are a solid value because of their location and serene setting. Additionally, the redevelopment of Downtown Houston and the popularity of the Intown and Galleria neighborhoods is tremendous. The highway and transportation infrastructure is ever-growing to meet the mobility needs of our residents and businesses. Light rail, the expansion of Interstate 10, and two new toll roads make traveling from West Houston and Katy to other parts of the city quick and convenient. Health care for residents is exceptional. The world-class Texas Medical Center in the heart of Houston has many affiliated hospitals and clinics close to home to meet the medical needs of area residents. Education is another primary consideration for relocating families. The Alief ISD, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, Houston ISD, Katy ISD, Lamar CISD and Spring Branch ISD are among the very best in Texas. Additionally, there is an outstanding variety of private and parochial schools from which to choose. We welcome you to our area and would like the opportunity to serve you personally. Please do not hesitate to contact or simply stop by our offices to see how we may be able to assist you in your relocation. Sincerely,

David Hightower, President Energy Corridor District

Jeannie M. Bollinger, President & CEO Houston West Chamber of Commerce

Ann F. Hodge, President/CEO Katy Area Chamber of Commerce

Lance LaCour, President/CEO Katy Area Economic Development Council, Inc.

Jim Murphy, General Manager Westchase District

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

FIREMANS #4 is the only blonde ale from Texas to ever win a medal at the most prestigious beer competition in the country. Last year, Firemans was judged second best in category from a field of 126 entries from all over the USA.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

in this section welcome recreation shopping & entertainment culture

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ISSUE 1

Welcome to HOUSTON A new Houstonian arrives about every fourteen minutes; in the last year, a new job was added to the area about every twelve. Many of the new jobs and new residents are settling in West Houston through the Inner Loop, one of the city’s most dynamic parts.

Houston resonates with energy, recreation, entertainment and some of the top-selling master-planned communities in the United States. Quality of life – including top-rated schools – has drawn residents and employers alike. It’s hard to think of another region anywhere in the U.S. more energetic than West Houston. And we mean “energetic” literally, because West Houston and the Downtown Houston area are the Energy Capital of Houston, which is the Energy Capital of the World. Just like the country, Houston’s growth has always headed west. More than 1.7 million people live in Greater West Houston and 580,000 are employed in the area, according to 2017 data from the West Houston Association. West Houston residents are highly educated, with 43%

holding a college degree, compared to 36% of Houstonians. Many – but by no means all – of West Houston’s residents and employers are associated with the energy industry. West Houston is home to the world-famous Energy Corridor, home to more than 300 multi-national, national and local companies involved in every aspect of energy. As the region’s third-largest employment center – only Downtown Houston and the Texas Medical Center are bigger – the Energy Corridor has more than 91,000 employees. With so many smart and successful professionals working in the area, it’s no surprise that several West Houston ZIP codes rank among the wealthiest in Texas and the U.S., according to the U.S. Census Bureau, and

eight of the most affluent Houston neighborhoods are within the Central to West Houston area. Top-rated schools and world-class healthcare round out West Houston’s envied quality of life. The area is served by the Katy Independent School District, one of the best districts in the U.S., as well as Fort Bend, Cypress-Fairbanks, Spring Branch and Houston ISD, all of which have excellent ratings and campuses. West Houston is also attracting new private schools, such as the British International School of Houston, which has opened a new $80 million K-12 campus in Katy. There is also a growing concentration of modern, leading-edge hospitals in West Houston, including Memorial Hermann

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WELCOME TO WEST HOUSTON

Katy, Houston Methodist St. Catherine and Texas Children’s Hospital (TCH) West Campus. Houston’s world-renowned M.D. Anderson Cancer Center chose Katy as the location for its first complete standalone facility outside of the Texas Medical Center.

RECREATION West Houston is much more than a lovely place to learn, work and live. Residents enjoy the leafy outdoors by hiking, cycling, birding, and golfing. With over 200 sunny days a year, a moderate climate and many public and private courses, this is a golfer’s paradise. In addition, the area boasts more than 26,000 acres of parks, reservoirs and open space, plus more than 50 miles of trails, which includes the 9,200-acre Cullen Park and the 7,800-acre George Bush Park, two of the largest metropolitan parks in the United States. A master plan to create more than 100 miles of interconnected trails in West Houston, within a 6-mile radius centered at the intersection of the Katy Freeway (I-10 West) and State Highway 6, is well under way.

LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch is another open-air festival of shopping, dining and entertainment, with buildings evoking the feel of a small-town Main Street, and events that include outdoor movies, concerts and a weekly Farmer’s Market. A little further west, Katy Mills Mall is one of the biggest outlet malls in the nation, and nearby the Katy Main Street development is planned for 1 million square feet of shopping, restaurants and services. It will be built in two phases; phase one is already complete.

immerse yourself in history at an area museum or memorial, visit a performance of traditional dance, appreciate the visual artistry on display at a local gallery or sample one of any number of

international cultures. Of

course,

down the road, the world-class museum district, galleries, theatres and performance venues of Houston make taking in an amazing show easy.

TRANSPORTATION Some of the most significant mobility

Recently completed is Grand Crossing, a master-planned development at the southwest corner of the Katy Freeway and Grand Parkway, with shops, offices and a hotel. University Center, a mixed-use development at the northeast corner of this key intersection, will be anchored by a 46-acre University of Houston campus. But the fun doesn’t stop at shopping. There’s plenty of amusement to be had at many venues for play, like Top Golf, a golf games venue, or IFly, where you can soar on an upward air current. Or, splash your way through summer at Typhoon Texas and at any of the many splash pads, play fountains and pools in the area.

projects in the metropolitan area are happening in West Houston. The Katy Freeway (I-10) – the undisputed major artery of West Houston – was expanded in a $2.8 billion, 23-milelong project completed in 2008, and a new project is adding more lanes. Still considered one of the nation’s most innovative urban mobility projects, the Katy Freeway has toll lanes with variable congestion pricing, along with free lanes for high-occupancy vehicles. The Westpark Tollway, another key to West Houston mobility, stretches from the 610 Loop to the Grand Parkway, and

The Katy Prairie Conservancy is succeeding in preserving an ecologically vital prairie and associated wetlands on Houston’s far west side for the enjoyment and benefit of all. The number of protected acres has grown to 20,000, up from 1,300 acres 15 years ago.

SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT West Houston is becoming one of the most vibrant shopping and entertainment destinations in the Gulf Coast region. With 5 major anchors and over 150 shops and restaurants, the recently rejuvenated Memorial City Mall is one of the region’s most popular malls. Located at the Katy Freeway and Sam Houston Tollway, the 37-acre CityCentre development is an urban mix of restaurants, shops, offices and apartments, set amid European-style open-air plazas and carefully designed green spaces.

And take advantage of some of the most diverse dining options in the world at one of the thousands of restaurants in the area. Choose from a quick bite at a rustic local tradition, or enjoy a world-class culinary experience from an award-winning chef. All are ready to serve you in West Houston.

CULTURE

construction has begun to extend this popular tollway another 2.5 miles westward to Fulshear. Widening of FM 1093 is also part of this vital mobility project. The Grand Parkway is also a strategic part of West Houston’s mobility infrastructure. Houston’s third major loop is now open from U.S. 59 South to U.S. 59 North as a toll road, allowing commuters

The people of West Houston like to celebrate – their heritage, their community, their food, heck, anything. And you’ll find many festivals and parties all year long. From Katy’s Wild West Brewfest to Music on the Patio at Italian Maid Café in Fulshear; gatherings to eat, enjoy and engage are everywhere.

to travel without stopping from Fort Bend

Houston is the most diverse city in the country and the cultural offerings reflect that. In West Houston, it’s possible to

million new residents to Harris County by

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

County in the south to the Cy-Fair area, The Woodlands area and Montgomery County toward the north and east. With so much in its favor, it’s no surprise that West Houston sits in the middle of a growth trend that is projected to add 3.4 2050. You might be one of them and you’ll find a warm welcome in West Houston. 

DELRAY

APARTMENT HOMES LIVE YOUR ST YLE

APARTMENTS IN THE ENERGY CORRIDOR JUST GOT EVEN BETTER We believe elevating where you live is about blending it seamlessly with how you live. We go to great lengths designing amenities and choosing locations that put everything within reach. Where you live, is where you come alive. When you play as hard as you work, time is everything. Delray Apartment Homes is designed to let you focus on what’s important to you, whatever that may be. Smartly designed living spaces and high-end finishes combine to create a relaxing space to suit your lifestyle. Tucked away in a welcoming community, Delray offers a sanctuary from bustling city life in a serene Houston Setting. Our spacious apartments come in one- and two-bedroom designs, some of which are available in lofts, to fit every possible

lifestyle. We strive to provide a welcoming atmosphere with all the perks and amenities that will make you feel at home. The desirable features extend beyond our apartment interiors - with luxurious community-wide amenities, we are a step above the rest. Enjoy our patio equipped with gas BBQ grills and resort style pools, or lounge in our chic seating areas. Our apartments offer top of the line finishes including granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and hardwood floors. Our varied floor plan layout offer unit options, including balconies, patios and walk in closets. We believe in offering the best amenities for our residents Contact us today to schedule an in-depth, private tour of our wonderful community and its desirable amenities

Come home to Delray and discover a life of soothing luxuries and everyday amenities. Whether you

prefer relaxing on the private balcony or lounging poolside, you’ll find the perfect retreat in our Houston

Energy Corridor apartment community. With one- and two-bedroom homes available, choosing your next

apartment in Houston has never been easier. Choose luxury. Choose comfort. Choose Delray. With a focus

on both luxury and convenience, you’ll find the everyday lifestyle in these Houston apartments to be exactly what you were searching for. We’re focused on our residents wants and needs and it shows in our luxurious community and apartment amenities. We strive to provide a welcoming atmosphere with all the perks and amenities that will make you feel at home.

COMMUNITY AMENITIES • Two Resort Style Pools w/ Outdoor Grilling Areas • Resident Café w/ Java Bar • Package Locker System • 24 Hour Fitness Facility • Business Center • Controlled Access Gates • Bike Rental

• Pet Park • Carport / Garages • Granite Countertops • Extended Yards* • Washer and Dryer included • Stainless Steel Appliances • Walk-in Closets * In Select Apartment Homes

855-328-2532 | www.DelrayTX.com | 1715 Enclave Pkwy, Houston, TX 77077 ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION

in this section

Photo courtesy of Rise Communities, Cane Island

cities neighborhoods cost of living & map neighborhood spotlight inner loop living

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ISSUE 1

HOUSING &

NEIGHBORHOODS From established neighborhoods with mid-century homes and treelined streets, to mega master-planned communities that are among the nation’s top-sellers, West Houston offers a diverse range of housing choices.

Whether it’s a cozy Memorial enclave or a new Katy development with thousands of acres, West Houston communities share many desirable traits: highly regarded public schools, proximity to many of the region’s largest and most popular parks and trail systems, and easy accessibility

NEIGHBORHOODS CANE ISLAND Named after the 1872 settlement that later became Katy, Cane Island is a 1,000-acre community planned for more than 2,000 homes priced from the $250,000s to more than $1 million. The community is easily

to major employers, shopping and health-

accessible from the Cane Island Parkway exit

care providers.

from I-10 West. Less than four miles west of

of these neighborhoods are gated, and overall home styles include traditional single-family homes and luxury patio homes. The first phase also includes a 4-acre amenity center with an amphitheater shaded by 75-year-old oak trees. Other attractions include a pool and splash pad, a two-story fitness center, and two spacious tree houses with decks. A glass conservatory offers an ideal place for commu-

the Grand Parkway, Cane Island is located in

nity events and exhibits. The heavily wooded

Following are brief introductions to some

the Katy school district and is only minutes

half-mile arrival experience includes two

of the most significant neighborhoods,

from the Energy Corridor and other desti-

“living archway” tunnels made of evergreens

communities and municipalities in West

nations. The first phase includes 13 model

and seasonal colors, leading to a three-acre

Houston and Katy.

homes in 7 residential neighborhoods. Three

lake and the Cane Island Welcome Center.

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LOT FINANCING AVAILABLE! CALL TERRY CROCKETT 832-344-2036

Sonya Simmons, Danny Curtis, Gayle Bowen, Stephanie Sykes and Kristin Cady

GOING THE EXTRA MILE FOR YOU WWW.GAYLEBOWEN.COM

AC R E AGE E STATE S The allure of Fulbrook is undeniable. This wonderfully wooded acreage community is the ideal spot for your rural retreat - convenient to the city life but nestled in nature. The trusted luxury custom homebuilders of Fulbrook Acreage Estates will help you design your own sanctuary to suit your family’s unique needs and desires. Fulbrook Estate owners get to enjoy an amazing tax rate of just 1.96% and there are no MUD taxes. The natural oxbow lakes are perfect for fishing, canoeing and kayaking. More than 200 sprawling acres are dedicated to the picturesque open spaces. Living in nature is spectacular but for those who are excited about a little entertainment once in a while,

they can find live performances at the gazebo or host a family outing in the pavilion. Building a dream estate in Fulbrook allows the residents the opportunity to enjoy the small town charm of the Fulshear Community where new public schools, numerous private schools as well as the prestigious Katy Medical Center is truly something special. It is home to amazing golf courses, fun filled community events as well as holiday festivals. A variety of retail stores and restaurants including the famous Dozier’s BBQ beckon residents to the delightful town center and newly opened Pier 36. Come see for yourself why Fulbrook Acreage Estates located in the up and coming town of Fulshear is the perfect place to raise your family.

Katy

Grand Parkwa y

SEE THE COMMUNITY ONLINE AT WWW.GAYLEBOWEN.COM 9 35

Fulshear

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FM 1093 FM

Westheimer

Westpark Tollway

9 35

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THE GAYLE BOWEN RE/MAX TEAM SERVING THE FULSHEAR & KATY AREA SPECIALIZING IN COUNTRY HOMES AND ACREAGE For the last three decades, Gayle Bowen has been a pillar of professionalism in the Houston area real estate community. As business grew, Gayle wanted to expand and developed the Gayle Bowen Team. Sales agent, Sonya Simmons, came to the team with expertise in new home construction as the result of assisting 7 top production builders in several area communities. Danny Curtis, brings both passion and a deep sense of responsibility as a Fulshear/Katy area realtor and is familiar with every development in his territory. With a passion for real estate he retired from Texas Instruments and pursued his goal of becoming a realtor. Stephanie Sykes is a 4th generation Houstonian and has expertise in the Greater Houston Metroplex. With a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas State University, she entered Fort Bend ISD as an elementary educator and understands the importance of a

strong school system when it comes to buying a house. Kristin Cady joined the Gayle Bowen Team in 2005 with a 10 year mortgage lending background, and has been a Katy resident for 40 years. Kristin oversees all administrative issues for the Gayle Bowen Team. The Gayle Bowen Team recently made the Top 20 Realtor Team of RE/MAX of Texas, and Top Realtor Team List featured in the Katy Times’ 2018 Best of Katy Edition. As a prestigious member of the RE/MAX Hall of Fame and Chairman’s Club, the Gayle Bowen Team delivers uncompromising service to both buyers and sellers. The Gayle Bowen Team consistently places in the top echelon of Texas realtor teams by building Client confidence in their market expertise and collaborative network of personal contacts. As certified Luxury Specialists, the Gayle Bowen Team delivers the dream, one client at a time.

REMAX CINCO RANCH CELL: 713-822-4539 OFFICE: 281-646-2127 | Gayle@FulbrookHomes.com 2877 Commercial Center Blvd, Katy, Texas 77494

500

TOP

REMAX of TEXAS 2018

WEST HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS

CROSS CREEK RANCH The master plan for this community was designed with two priorities – to enhance the lifestyles of its residents and to be kind to the environment. The results are evident in Flewellen Creek Park, a 150-acre park that winds through the heart of Cross Creek Ranch, providing a habitat for birds and wildlife while also connecting the entire community. With a boardwalk and overlook, Polishing Pond is a beautiful nature habitat and water quality basin that’s about the size of 48 football fields. More amenities include the Adventure Island Water Park, miles of hike and bike trails, Arbor Park, and a spacious fitness center. Cross Creek Ranch Hill, a 40-foot incline

Photo Courtesy of Kingdom Heights

KINGDOM HEIGHTS Kingdom Heights was carefully and uniquely

affectionately dubbed as Mt. Fulshear, is

designed to provide “lakefront” and “park

a popular place for residents to walk their

side” living to homeowners at an affordable

dogs, fly kites, enjoy picnics or simply

price in Rosenberg. Kingdom Heights is a

relax. One of its most unique amenities

572-acre master planned community with

is the Italian Maid Café, offering every-

12 lakes and 39 parks being developed on

thing from Lasagna Bolognese to Chicken

150-acres, water and green space will separate

Aioli for dine-in or takeout. Located at

this community from any other in Fort Bend

the crossroads of FM 1463 and FM 1093,

County. The community includes a large

just west of the Grand Parkway and West-

recreation center with a resort style pool and

park Tollway, Cross Creek Ranch is served

fitness center. Excellent Lamar ISD schools;

by the award-winning Katy and Lamar

Foster High School and Briscoe Junior High

Consolidated School Districts.

are right down the road. Kingdom Heights is just minutes from Sugar Land Towne Centre,

JORDAN RANCH

the Stafford Civic Center, Fort Bend Theatre

One of the newest communities from

and an array of local shopping, dining,

Johnson Development, Jordan Ranch is

entertainment and recreation opportunities.

in Fulshear, recently named the #1 place

New-home offerings in Kingdom Heights

to raise a family in the Houston area by

start in the mid $200’s from three quality

Niche.com. Jordan Ranch is one mile from

builders. Kingdom Heights development plan

I-10 West, with convenient access to the

will eventually have 1,430 home sites.

Grand Parkway, which now extends all the way from U.S. 59 South to U.S. 59 North.

ALIEF

Planned for 2,800 homes, this 1,350-acre

Recognized as a town in 1894, Alief is named after its first postmistress, Alief Ozelda Magee, who was part of the first family to settle in the area. Today, the original 1,250-acre town is located mostly within the city limits of Houston, with some of its area in unincorporated Harris County. Alief ’s boundaries include Westheimer on the north, Sam Houston Tollway on the east, the Fort Bend County line on the west, and U.S. 59 South on the south. The boundaries of the Alief Independent School District are roughly equivalent. In the early 20th century,

community is planned to include a swimming pool, pocket parks, and hike and bike trails. Near the Energy Corridor, Jordan Ranch is part of the five-star Lamar Consolidated Independent School District, with brand-new junior high and high schools opened in 2016, and a new elementary that opened for the 2017/2018 school year. New homes are offered by six leading homebuilders, including David Weekley,

Highland,

Plantation and Westin.

Newmark,

Perry,

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

Alief flourished as a rice and cotton-growing town and new settlers included German immigrants and African-Americans. Alief grew rapidly in the 1970s and 1980s and soon became home to a diverse population. Today, it is home to Houston’s thriving Chinatown community and the desirable Westchase business district.

KATY One of the fastest-growing and most desirable suburbs in the Houston area, Katy is located where Fort Bend County, Harris County and Waller County converge. The Katy Freeway (I-10 West), the Grand Parkway and the Westpark Tollway link Katy to the nearby Energy Corridor and all of Houston. From historic homes and shops in Old Town Katy, to new homes and upscale restaurants in some of the nation’s largest and most popular masterplanned communities, Katy has it all. The actual City of Katy has a population of about 15,000, but the overall Katy area is home to more than 18,282 people (according the the 2017 US Census Bureau Estimate), which is more than Pittsburgh. Katy receives a steady stream of accolades from national publications and groups for its high quality of life, its highly regarded schools and its educated and affluent population. Some of the biggest retail and entertainment complexes in the Houston region are in the Katy area, including Katy Mills Mall, home to more than 200 premium outlet stores, and LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch, offering dozens of shops, restaurants, salons and cafes in a pedestrian friendly Main Street atmosphere.

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L IVE ON A LAKE OR PARK Kingdom Heights is a premier master planned community with 150 acres of parks and lakes. The community was carefully designed to be unique in Fort Bend County and offer affordable living with outstanding amenities. Most home sites in Kingdom Heights are built on a lake or park. This provides comfortable space throughout the community with room for families to grow and play. Walking throughout the community will lead you to several parks and large lakes for fishing from the shore or canoe. Amenities in Kingdom Heights are extraordinary for an affordable location. The large Recreation Center has a full kitchen and a large area for hosting parties indoor or on the patio by the pool. The Fitness Center is a fully

equipped gym for residents with a convenient look out to a playground for the kids. Other amenities include a resort style pool, sport fields and more! If you are looking for value and want to live in a unique, family friendly Fort Bend County Master Planned Community, Kingdom Heights is without equal. Follow Kingdom Heights on Facebook to keep up with their latest events and happenings.

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WEST HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOODS

The University of Houston and Houston

claims. But the town is still home to friendly

along Highway 6, just west of U.S. 290,

Community College both have campuses

families, descendants of the women who took

Copperfield was completed in the 1980s

in Katy.

lunches to the railway workers when then

and early 1990s as one of Houston’s earliest

stopped in their town. Niche.com rated the

master-planned communities. Thanks to the

FULSHEAR

town the “#1 place to raise a family in the

scenic restrictions along Highway 6, the recre-

In some ways, Fulshear is the new Katy, as

Houston area.”

ational areas and the protective covenants put

Houston’s growth marches ever westward, and as large tracts of developable land in Katy become harder to find. Today, Fulshear has some of the newest, largest and most successful master-planned communities in the Houston region, including Cross Creek Ranch and Fulbrook on Fulshear Creek. The extension of the Westpark Tollway westward to Fulshear is underway and will improve the already good mobility in the area. The appeal of the land is another attraction, as the Katy prairie changes

in place by Friendswood Development Co.,

BEAR CREEK & HIGHWAY 6 AREA

Copperfield is still a very attractive, desir-

The Bear Creek and Highway 6 area is a

completed neighborhoods in the area include

wedge of prime west-by-northwest real

Deerfield Village and Hearthstone.

able and well-maintained community. Other

estate located between I-10 West and U.S.

Today, Towne Lake is one of the newest and

290 West, and to the west of the Sam

largest master-planned communities in the

Houston Tollway. The area is home to the

area, which is preserving its natural appeal

Addicks and Barker reservoirs, created

with hundreds of acres devoted to lakes

in 1938 to control downstream flooding

to gently rolling terrain around Fulshear.

of Buffalo Bayou. These reservoirs cover

The town was established in 1824 by Churchill

area a natural, small-town feel that persists

Fulshear, one of Stephen F. Austin’s Old 300

today. They are also home to some of the

settlers, who purchased parcels of land and

area’s largest and most popular parks and

set up a colony. In 1888, Fulshear granted

natural observation areas, including the

passage to the San Antonio & Aransas Pass

2,154-acre Bear Creek Park, offering trails,

Railway and the town grew to 11 stores, three

sports fields, picnic areas and tennis courts.

and parks. It was named Master-Planned Community of the Year by the Greater

approximately 26,000 acres and lend the

Houston

Builder’s

Association.

Resi-

dents in this area are served by two highly successful school districts – Katy ISD and Cypress-Fairbanks ISD.

MEMORIAL WEST “Memorial West” commonly refers to

saloons, a post office, school and hotel. Today, Fulshear is undergoing another kind of boom,

This area also has a number of established

the middle ground between the close-in

as modern-day settlers stake their homestead

communities, including Copperfield. Located

Memorial area and Katy. It stretches west

Harris County

521

Harris County © Texas Almanac

865

South Houston

William P. Hobby Airport

LR LR

La Porte

Morgans Point

146

Shoreacres Taylor Johnson Lake Village Space Center El Lago Pearland Clear 2351 Seabrook Lake BRAZORIA Webster Nassau Friendswood Bay 270 146 518 45 3 League 528 City NASA1 8 MILES G A LV E S T O N 8

Clear Cree

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

288

Bay

Courtesy of the Texas Almanac, published by the Texas State Historical Association, Austin, Texas.

Ea San st Fork Jacinto

90A

146

Baytown

Stafford Missouri City

134

225

Deer Park

330

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Pasadena

610

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HOUSTON

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525

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Jersey Village

1960

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Civilian labor......................2,279,367

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2920

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290

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Tomball

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Change fm 2010........................10.9 Area (sq.mi.)..........................1,777.5

2978 249

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Population..........................4,538,028

The largest county in the eastern half of state; level; typically coastal surface and soils; many bayous, canals for artificial drainage; Lake Houston, Sheldon Reservoir; partly forested.

to Highway 6, with Memorial Drive as its

From Kirkwood to Dairy Ashford are the

spine, with a succession of wooded, highly

“Ashford” subdivisions: Ashford Forest,

desirable

Frostwood;

Ashford Village and Ashford Hills. They

Nottingham; Wilchester; Fleetwood; and

were developed from the 1960s and today

Barkers Landing. These neighborhoods

are

are prized for their large, leafy lots, and

neighborhoods.

neighborhoods:

established,

community-oriented

for highly rated schools in the Houston and Katy school districts, along with

SPRING BRANCH / MEMORIAL

many outstanding private schools. Prox-

Straddling the Katy Freeway are two very

imity to Energy Corridor employers and

different areas – modest mid-century Spring

to shopping at Memorial City Mall, City-

Branch and the upscale Memorial area.

ALIEF Millie Bush Dog Park, Alief Amity Park, Hong Kong Market, Vietnamese Culture & Science Association KATY Katy Mills Mall, KCAM Contemporary Art Museum, LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch, Typhoon Texas MEMORIAL WEST Terry Hershey Park, Citycentre, Memorial City Mall, Town and Country Village

Centre and the Galleria increases the area’s appeal. The redevelopment of the former

Spring Branch, which spreads along the

Exxon Chemical campus nearby is adding

north side of I-10 from about the 610 Loop

a major new attraction. The area is also

to the Beltway, maintains a suburban char-

close to some of Houston’s most popular

acter with post-World War II homes, 1950s

parks, including Terry Hershey Park, with

era shopping plazas and tall trees. Starting

its well-used bike and running trails along

in the 1970s, a large number of apartment

Buffalo Bayou.

complexes began rising in the area, leading

BRIAR FOREST NEIGHBORHOODS

Spring Branch is coming back, however,

Briar Forest is bounded by Buffalo Bayou to the north, Westheimer to the south, Gessner to the east and Dairy Ashford to the west. With easy access to I-10, the beltway, Westpark Tollway, Westheimer, Westchase

to its eventual decline.

UPTOWN Galleria Houston & ICE at the Galleria, Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park, iPic Theaters

with young homeowners moving in to restore and expand existing homes, and homebuilders

redeveloping

large

tracts

formerly occupied by apartments and shopping centers.

District and the Energy Corridor, the area

With names such as Bunker Hill Village and

is very well situated. It includes the neigh-

Hedwig Village, the Memorial Villages are

borhoods of Briargrove Park, Walnut Bend,

nestled in a woody area along Memorial

Lakeside Place and Ashford Forest which

Drive, mostly south of I-10. Home to some

are all located along Briar Forest Drive.

of the wealthiest ZIP codes in Houston and the nation, these villages maintain a rural

Briargrove Park, situated between Gessner and

character with winding tree-filled lanes, huge

the Sam Houston Tollway (Beltway 8), is a

lots and gated enclaves. Styles range from

closely knit, family-oriented neighborhood of

rambling brick ranch houses to Georgian-style

approximately 1,500 well-maintained homes.

mansions. Many well-kept townhome and

Walnut Bend is located west of Briargrove

MEMORIAL AREA IKEA, iFly Indoor Skydiving, Texas Rock Gym, Sky High Sports, Topgolf

condo complexes are also in the area.

UPTOWN Uptown is the term that Galleria area boosters have worked to establish for the entire neighborhood surrounding Houston’s most iconic shopping mall. Whether you call it Uptown or simply the Galleria area, it’s arguably the city’s most prolific spot for high-rise and mid-rise condominiums that are for sale rather than for lease. A good example is the Astoria, a 75-unit high-rise on Post Oak Boulevard. Nearly sold out before it was completed, this 29-story Art Deco style building is just

Park and the Sam Houston Tollway. Many

Stretching to the Beltway and beyond,

one of many new high-rise developments

homes are within walking distance of

the greater Memorial area is also heavily

in the area.

Walnut Bend Elementary and a popular

wooded and highly desired, with mature

community center with a swimming pool

trees, well-preserved original homes and

and tennis courts.

new construction.

The popular Lakeside Place neighborhoods

Residents of these neighborhoods shop at

known as the current neighborhood of

stretch from Wilcrest to Kirkwood, and to

Memorial City Mall, the Galleria, and the

former President George H.W. Bush.

the north of Briar Forest. Developed in the

CityCentre urban-style mixed use center.

Filled with parks, shady esplanades and

1970s, they are surrounded by peaceful,

Republic Square, the former Exxon Mobil

large leafy lots, Tanglewood has rambling

wooded greenbelts and the prestigious Lake-

campus is being transformed into a mixed-use

ranch houses alongside newer Mediterra-

side Country Club.

center set among ponds and woods.

nean and English style homes. 

Just up San Felipe, the dense urban vibe of the Galleria gives way to well-planned neighborhoods such as Tanglewood, best

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CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ISSUE 1

With 92 consulates, a dynamic multi-lingual population, two international airports and a top ranked port, Houston attracts newcomers from around the globe who bring with them a world view of business, opportunity and life style.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

SPOTLIGHT: INNER LOOP LIVING

“We Love Houston.” The 28-foot welcoming

publicly traded oil and gas exploration and

healthcare and other recession-resistant

sign says it all. Open and friendly Housto-

production companies.

industries now accounting for a larger share

nians embody a boisterous spirit of growth

of the regional economy. In fact, Houston

and optimism – a can-do attitude – and cele-

Despite the slowdown in the energy industry

has more Fortune 500 company headquar-

brate individuality and quirky creativity.

over the past couple of years, optimism

ters than any U.S. city other than Chicago

has crept back into the markets as the price

and New York.

Houston, the city with no limits, is America’s most diverse city. Whatever their

of oil has slowly improved; consensus is building that the Houston economy may

Houston’s Texas Medical Center is the

also have seen the worst of this drilling

largest in the world, employing more

downturn and that better times are just

than 106,000 people and welcoming 10

ahead, according to the University of

million patient visits each year. The Port of

Houston’s status as the Energy Capital of

Houston Bauer Institute for Regional Fore-

Houston is the nation’s top seaport by many

the World remains unrivaled. The city is

casting. That’s largely because Houston has

home to more than 3,700 energy related

worked hard to diversify its economic base

firms, including 40 of the nation’s 145

since the hard oil crash of the 1980s, with

backgrounds, newcomers from around the nation and the world come to Houston in huge numbers.

measures, and ranks as one of the busiest ports in the world by cargo tonnage. NASA’s Johnson Space Center adds to Houston’s economic diversity, and the city has consular offices from 92 countries.

Considerations When Searching for a Home in Central Houston: • While much of Houston is unzoned, check out potential restrictions such as deed restrictions and historic district status – the latter has been spreading through Central Houston. While restrictions can be very beneficial for neighborhood preservation, they might not be compatible with a buyer’s future vision for their new property. • It’s relatively quick and easy to check the reputation of volume builders in large suburban communities, but inner city builders and renovators may be very small or even brand-new. Real estate agents and previous buyers can be good sources to check with. • If schools are a consideration, keep in mind that the reputations of inner city schools can vary widely from campus to campus, even within a small geographic area. Urban districts such as HISD have many outstanding magnet and neighborhood schools, however, attendance boundaries are not often flexible.

Due to Houston’s sheer enormity – the 8,929-square-mile metro area is larger than the state of New Jersey – most of its growth takes place outside of the 610 Loop, the innermost of the three highway rings around Houston. But inside 610, the living is good and getting better.

WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT LIVING IN CENTRAL HOUSTON? Today, Central Houston is experiencing a renaissance the likes of which it hasn’t seen since John and Augustus Allen founded the city at the confluence of Buffalo and White Oak Bayous in 1836. Known as Allen’s Landing, and sometimes called Houston’s Plymouth Rock, this spot provided a natural

• When moving into a transitional neighborhood, keep in mind that problems such as crime, litter and rundown or abandoned properties may still take several more years to turn around. Redevelopment, while sometimes fast, can also progress very slowly.

turning basin for the first Port of Houston.

• If it’s important to you, consider that large tracts of open or industrial land, especially if they border a major street, can be redeveloped as multifamily residential, commercial or other.

dramatically throughout the second half

• If a home or neighborhood is located near a major freeway, keep in mind that urban freeways are always candidates for expansion. Do your research on projects that have been announced or talked about. The expansion of I-45 North and the proposed Houston-Dallas high-speed rail line may impact a number of Central Houston neighborhoods. • A s with high-rise and mid-rise living anywhere, keep in mind that a great view is never guaranteed to last forever, unless your building looks onto a park or other green space.

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

Like much of Central Houston, the area surrounding

Allen’s

Landing

declined

of the 20th century, as Houston’s booming postwar growth focused almost exclusively on the suburbs. Today, however, Allen’s Landing has made a rousing comeback, thanks to a $4.6 million revitalization that added a terraced lawn, a concert wharf and new public art. The historic Sunset Coffee Building at Allen’s Landing is being renovated and transformed into a recreational and cultural center.

The rebound of Allen’s Landing mirrors

version of Central Park. On the exciting

developer is transforming it into a mixed-use

the revitalization that’s taking place in

east side of Downtown, BBVA Compass

complex called Post HTX with private event

many other parts of Central Houston. As

Stadium is home to the Houston Dynamo

space and residential, office, retail and

newcomers and longtime residents alike

soccer team. Reliant Stadium, home to the

restaurant spaces.

seek to experience the convenience and

Houston Texans football team, is just inside

cultural richness of city living, long-for-

the 610 Loop.

Meanwhile, more options include movies and concerts at historic Market Square Park, and

gotten or simply sleepy neighborhoods in all directions from Downtown are waking

After decades of mainly being a 9-to-5

up and offering new living opportunities

destination for office workers, Downtown

that are as diverse as Houston itself. These

Houston is fast transforming itself into

It‘s well known that Houstonians eat out

include urban lofts in converted warehouses,

a 24/7 place where people live, work and

more than residents of any other city, and

gleaming new mid-rise and high-rise build-

play. More than a dozen new residential

with 11,000 eateries to choose from, who

ings, renovated historic bungalows and

towers are sprouting up all over downtown,

could blame them? Central Houston is home

cottages, and new townhomes and single-

and a host of new hotels opened in time to

to many of the nation’s most acclaimed

family residences.

welcome fans to Houston for Superbowl

new restaurants, including Oxheart in the

LI. The largest of these, the 1,000-room

Warehouse District, Reef in Midtown, and

Living in central Houston means easy

Marriott Marquis, is one of many new

Hugo’s, Uchi and Underbelly in Montrose.

access to Houston’s rich cultural scene.

towers ringing Discovery Green and it

In a city where more than 90 languages are

The

features a Texas-shaped lazy river.

spoken, great ethnic food is everywhere,

Theatre

District

Downtown

amusements at The Downtown Aquarium.

from the many Vietnamese restaurants

Houston has the largest concentration of seats outside of New York. This 17-block

For Downtown entertainment, Green Street

along Milam Street in Midtown, to the

district is home to nine performing arts

Houston is home to the House of Blues, the

original Ninfa’s Mexican restaurant on the

organizations that wow audiences in

Lucky Strike bowling alley, a growing array

recently-beautified Navigation Boulevard.

venues including Jones Hall, the Hobby

of stores and restaurants, and new luxury

Center, the Wortham Theater Center and

hotel Hotel Alessandra.

Bayou Place,

Central Houston is a shopper’s paradise

the Alley Theater. Overall, Houston has

Houston’s original downtown entertain-

that includes funky fashion boutiques in

more than 500 arts organizations – most of

ment complex - offers movies at Sundance

Montrose, antiques stores in the Heights,

them in Central Houston.

Cinemas, concerts at Bayou Music Center,

and a large cluster of art galleries and home

and a variety of restaurants.

decor stores along Kirby and Richmond. Westheimer is the undisputed champion

Just southwest of downtown, in the pedestrian-friendly Museum District, more than

The 16-acre site of the Downtown Post

of Houston’s shopping streets, crowned by

8.7 million visitors explore the 19 museums

Office was sold in 2015, and a top local

The Galleria, Texas’ largest shopping center

that make up the tree-lined, culture-filled neighborhood each year. Within a 1.5-mile radius of the iconic Mecom Fountain, are such famous institutions as the Museum of

Fine

Arts-Houston,

the

Houston

Museum of Natural Science, and more more specialized museums such as the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, the Holocaust Museum, and the Asia Society Texas Center. For sports fans, all of Houston’s professional teams are rooted in the central city. The Astros baseball team play downtown at Minute Maid Park, built around the historic Union Station railroad depot. Also downtown, the Rockets play basketball at Toyota Center, next to the incredibly popular Discovery become

Green, Houston’s

which own

has

quickly

people-filled

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

SPOTLIGHT: INNER LOOP LIVING

with 400 fine stores and restaurants, and

to offer an urban experience with high-end

Texas Medical Center. UT officials describe

over 30 million shoppers every year. Located

retail, street-side cafes, office space, a cinema

the new campus as “a game changer” for

right outside the 610 Loop, The Galleria has

and 279 residential units. Just inside the

Houston and UT, and “an intellectual hub for

everything from Neiman-Marcus, Gucci

Beltway at I-10 West, City Centre is another

the entire UT system.”

and Saks Fifth Avenue for uber-luxury, to

growing concentration of retail, office, resi-

Macy’s for moderately priced fashion. Just

dential and entertainment with a walkable

inside the Loop on Westheimer, Highland

urban feel.

Village has everything from Pottery Barn to Williams-Sonoma.

so does its offering of schools. Houston

hood elementary schools and private schools.

has more than 40 colleges, universities and other institutions of higher learning. Rice

ments coming onboard in Central Houston.

University is consistently hailed as one

West Ave has shopping and dining on its

of the nation’s finest, and the University

lower floors, including big draws like Toot-

of Houston has earned Tier One status,

sies for fashion, and restaurants including

placing it in the same league as the Univer-

Pondicherry and Eddie V’s. On top of it all

sity of Texas and Texas A&M University for

are 400 apartments.

advanced research.

Another new mixed-use complex, the River

One of the most exciting announcements of 2015 was that the University of Texas had purchased a 332-acre site to create a major new campus about less than 4 miles from the

Galleria and Highland Village. The vision is

Carnegie Vanguard, and the High School for Health Professions, to sought-after neighbor-

example of several large mixed-use develop-

former car lot on Westheimer, between The

class, from HISD gems such as HSPVA,

As Central Houston continues to improve,

At Westheimer and Kirby, West Ave is an

Oaks District, has opened on the site of a

Many Central Houston schools are world-

While still not nearly as bad as in other cities, traffic congestion in Central Houston and throughout the metro region has increased as the population continues to grow. However, local and state governments are taking major steps to make sure that roadways keep pace with growth. After its recent major expansion, which included the nation’s first managed toll lanes for solo drivers, the Katy Freeway (I-10 West) continues to offer one of the area’s smoother commutes. That’s great news for the many Central Houston residents in The Heights, Spring Branch and other areas who work in the Energy Corridor along the Katy Freeway, starting a few miles outside of the Sam Houston Tollway. A major widening of U.S. 290 North starting at Loop 610 has been completed, and a major rebuilding of I-45 is in the planning stages. The I-45 project will include a much-needed redesign of the congested portion that winds through Downtown Houston. Central Houston residents are enjoying a growing number of options for getting around without cars. A decade ago, Houston’s first light rail line opened along Main Street, taking riders through Downtown, Midtown, the Museum District, the Medical Center and to NRG Stadium. Known as the Red Line, this popular rail line also created a catalyst for new development along the way, especially in Midtown, which has boomed with new midrise resi-

Galleria Houston - Photo courtesy of Visit Houston

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

dential buildings, townhomes eateries and arts centers.

The original Red Line was extended north from Downtown to Northline Mall, passing through several quickly redeveloping areas such as North Main Street, the Near Northside and Lindale Park. The Red Line also extends south from Downtown, through the Museum District and Texas Medical Center to reach its terminus at NRG Park. Today, Metro Rail is a popular network with the Green Line, which runs from the Theatre District, through Downtown and

Houston’s redeveloping East

End, stopping at the Magnolia Park Transit Center. The Purple Line extends from Downtown through the rapidly gentrifying Third Ward, also connecting the University of Houston and beautiful MacGregor Park. Bike trails are an increasingly popular way to get around in Houston. The frequently used Heights trail opened a few years ago, and a new Downtown connection links it to East End trails. The trail has also been expanded to the west, connecting it to Timbergrove and other hot neighborhoods along White Oak Bayou.

She has a sleek and contemporary exterior coupled with sophisticated and luxurious finishes that emphasize Hotel Alessandra’s beautiful simplicity interwoven with a sense of timelessness and sophistication. Located in the Greenstreet development of downtown Houston, our newest hotel transforms this urban area into a vibrant and well - rounded environment. Designer Lauren Rottet, Founder for Rottet Studio says “Alessandra transplants old world luxury to blend seamlessly with southern charm, sophistication, and a business savvy mindset:’

Resoundingly supported by voters in a 2012 bond election, the Bayou Greenways 2020 project provides $215 million for 150 miles of continuous parks and trails along Houston’s bayous. The first results are visible in the beautifully landscaped and popular Buffalo Bayou Park, stretching along Allen

INDULGE ALL THE SENSES: • 223 elegantly appointed rooms and suites • Custom Valencia Bed with luxurious linens • Complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access in all guest rooms and public areas • 50 inch LED Televisions

DELIVERING THE EXPERIENCE: • Valencia VIP progam • Spa & swimming pool • Fitness center • Complimentary Maserati car service, within the downtown area, based on demand

Parkway and Memorial Drive, from Downtown to Shepherd Drive. Houston has plenty of parks off the bayous. Hermann Park, between Downtown and the Medical Center is home to the Houston Zoo, Miller Outdoor Theater and Japanese Gardens, which recently celebrated its 100th birthday with new public art and the McGovern Centennial Gardens. A new master plan is also underway to renovate and improve Memorial Park. If Central Houston sounds like a great place to live, it is because it is – there have never been so many options in so many areas. Our next chapter introduces you to many of them. 

1070 Dallas Street, Houston, Texas 77002 Reservation 844.204.5851 | Direct 713.242.8555

HOTELALESSANDRA-HOUSTON.COM HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

SPOTLIGHT: INNER LOOP LIVING

HOUSING &

NEIGHBORHOODS As the nation’s largest city without zoning laws, Houston sometimes presents challenges for those who like to live in a controlled and predictable environment. Any hesitations, however, are usually far outweighed by the city’s relative affordability and cultural dynamism.

As the nation’s largest city without zoning

communities with up to 100 new homes are

Market, located on the ground floor of the

laws, Houston sometimes presents chal-

being developed on former commercial sites

Park Place apartment high-rise.

lenges for those who like to live in a

as demand for Central Houston living ramps

controlled and predictable environment.

into high gear.

Any hesitations, however, are usually far

Views are also a huge consideration, since Houston’s skyline is regarded as one of the

The reward for your search can be discovering

nation’s most beautiful, and even views

ability and cultural dynamism.

a Central Houston home and neighborhood

looking away from Downtown can take in

that perfectly fits you, your personality and

verdant parks and historic neighborhoods.

With Central Houston offering so many

your lifestyle. A fringe benefit is stopping to

opportunities to cover, the following neigh-

eat and shop at some fun and funky urban

Downtown has 25 mid and high-rise resi-

borhood profiles are brief by necessity, and

spots as your house hunt unfolds.

dential buildings, each with its own distinct

outweighed by the city’s relative afford-

meant to offer ideas for deeper exploration.

character, style, and charm.

DOWNTOWN HOUSTON

In contrast to suburban master-planned

While not the only neighborhood with high-

New Market Square Tower Apartments, a

communities, most of which have robust

rise living, Downtown Houston offers a living

40-storey tower on historic Market Square,

websites, information centers, and builders

experience like nowhere else in the city,

is the tallest residential building in Down-

with hundreds of plans and lots to choose

thanks to the growing number of restaurants,

town and offers a new level of luxury. This

from, much of Central Houston’s new devel-

bars, parks, sports venues and cultural attrac-

building, like many new and existing resi-

opment takes place one or two houses at a

tions in the center of the city. Downtown

dential buildings in Downtown, has units

time. However, a growing number of larger

even has its own grocery store, the Phoenicia

for lease rather than purchase, but a few new

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

buildings are also testing the for-sale market.

suburbs like Spring Branch, now going

A number of vintage 1950, ‘60s and ‘70s

A few smaller historic Downtown Houston

through a decay-and-rebirth cycle of its own.

neighborhoods located just north of the 610

buildings offer condos for sale, including

From Victorian mansions to modest cottages,

Loop are increasingly being transformed

Hermann Lofts and Bayou Lofts.

many original homes were demolished in

with new construction, including Oak Forest,

the 1950s and 1960s as commercial interests

Shepherd Forest and Candlelight Forest.

East Downtown, sometimes called EaDo, is

invaded the area. Many other once-glorious

Neighborhoods such as Timbergrove and

located across U.S. 59 North, right behind

homes were subdivided into apartments.

Garden Oaks that have long been tight and

the big George R. Brown Convention Center.

well-preserved pockets in the area are also

The site of Houston’s original Chinatown,

But as early as the late 1970s, Houstonians

this area declined as Chinatown moved to

began to rediscover The Heights and a nascent

Bellaire Boulevard and the freeway created a

renovation trend got a foothold. As early as

Though still in its earliest stages at this point,

daunting barrier. Today, this area is coming

the 1990s, some builders began creating new

construction and renovation activity has

alive with renovated warehouse lofts, town-

homes that were hard to distinguish from the

also spread out to hug the 610 Loop and

homes and mid-rises, and residents can walk

old Victorians. The renovation pioneers battled

I-45 North, which have traditionally formed

to an increasing number of local restaurants,

crime and a severe lack of restaurants and

the northern and eastern boundaries of the

bars, live music venues, as well as Dynamo

retail, but they were rewarded with affordable

“Greater Heights.”

stadium and Minute Maid Park.

prices and seemingly unlimited opportunity.

seeing new construction.

North Main Street is a main artery in Whether they live on Market Square or in

Today, the pace of new construction and

Northside Village, where turn-of-the-cen-

EaDo, Downtown residents have increasing

redevelopment all over The Heights is fast

tury homes in working-class neighborhoods

options for getting around, with two new

and furious, and property values have soared.

are being renovated or replaced with new

rail lines and new connections for Houston’s

It is not uncommon to find homes over the

construction.

expanding trail system. One lane of Lamar

$1 million mark, and modest bungalows can

Street is a dedicated bike lane, connecting

fetch more than half a million.

An increasing number of newcomers are rediscovering Lindale Park, located just

trails along Buffalo Bayou to trails in EaDo and the East End.

As affluent residents have poured in, grocery stores,

retailers

and

restaurateurs

inside the 610 Loop.

have

HOUSTON HEIGHTS & GREATER HEIGHTS

followed. Today, the Heights is home to some

EAST END

of the hottest restaurants in Houston, and the

Bracketed by Downtown and I-45 South,

One of the hottest areas in Central Houston

cultural scene is also thriving with many art

with the University of Houston campus right

for new construction and renovation, the

galleries and artist studios in the area.

across the freeway, the East End was once one of Houston’s most fashionable places

Houston Heights is a fairly compact area, at least by its legal definition. Founded in

Parts of the Heights area, including much

to live. Eastwood, filled with quaint brick

1891 as a separate city connected to Down-

of the Houston Heights and surrounding

cottages and foursquares, was started in

town Houston by streetcar, the Houston

neighborhoods including Norhill and the

1911 by William A. Wilson, who also devel-

Heights proper stretches just a few blocks

Woodland Heights, have been declared as

oped the much pricier Woodland Heights.

east and west of Heights Boulevard, with

protected historic districts, curtailing demo-

The East End was also home to the original

I-10 West and 20th Street as its southern

lition and restricting renovations of historic

Houston Country Club, opened in 1908 on

and northern boundaries.

homes. Builders remain very active in these

the site of what is today the city’s public Gus

neighborhoods, where single-family detached

Wortham Golf Course.

As newcomers continue to flood into the area,

homes are the predominant style. The East End has had a large Hispanic popu-

and as builders work feverishly to find houses and lots to accommodate them, “The Heights”

Construction activity in the Greater Heights

lation since the early 20th century, when

has come to refer to an ever-expanding enve-

area has spread all the way west to Ella

many Mexicans began to settle there after

lope of neighborhoods located north and west

Boulevard, encompassing N. Shepherd Dr.

fleeing the upheaval of the Mexican Revo-

of Downtown, and the redevelopment fervor

and Durham (Shepherd’s southbound coun-

lution. Also home to the Port of Houston at

is also spreading outside the 610 Loop.

terpart), and neighborhoods such as Shady

its eastern boundary, the East End has long

Acres, Sunset Heights and Independence

been a diverse working-class melting pot of

Following its glory days in the late Victorian

Heights. In these areas, newly constructed

Hispanics, Germans and Italians.

era and the first half of the 20th century,

townhomes and row houses offer a much

The Heights declined as automobiles and

more affordable entry price than in the

Like many inner-city neighborhoods, the

highways made it popular to escape to new

historic districts.

East End began a slow decline after World

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

SPOTLIGHT: INNER LOOP LIVING

nation’s first president would have us think

Over 100 years ago, Midtown was home to

otherwise, the street is actually named after

many of Houston’s poshest neighborhoods,

Washington County, as it was originally part

but these gave way to decline and commercial

of the highway route to Brenham.

encroachment after World War II. For a peek at the past glory of Midtown, visit Adkins

The streetcar from Downtown to the Heights

Architectural Antiques on Fannin, or stop at

also ran down Washington, and in the 1960s

one of the many restaurants along Milam to

the street became lined with used-car lots.

taste its recent history as an enclave for Hous-

Things began to change in the 2000s, when

ton’s Vietnamese community.

Washington emerged as Houston’s hottest new nightclub scene. Townhomes also began

About 20 years ago, Midtown began its

to sprout up and down Washington, with the

rebound with townhomes flourishing south of

parallel corridors of I-10 and Buffalo Bayou

the Pierce Elevated, which is considered the

forming the boundaries.

boundary between Downtown and Midtown.

Residences and rip-roaring nightclubs are not

The transformation of Baldwin Park tells the

always an ideal combination, and fortunately

rebirth of Midtown in one glance. Located

War II, but many began rediscovering its trea-

for residents, the party crowd has moved else-

near Elgin (which becomes Westheimer a few

sure trove of historic homes as early as the

where, and Washington is developing a more

blocks west) and Highway 288, Baldwin Park

late 1970s, and a strong gentrification move-

mature and sedate restaurant following.

was founded in 1910 and is home to stately

Photo Courtesy of Houston Dynamo

Live Oak trees. For many decades, the park

ment has taken hold. Washington is bookended by the Sixth Ward

was mainly a hangout for vagrants. After a

Today, East End neighborhoods like East-

and First Ward neighborhoods as it meets

recent renovation that added a jogging track

wood and Broadmoor are starting to offer

Downtown to the east. To the west, it leads

and brightly colored playground equipment,

new construction, with new homes built

to the conglomeration of neighborhoods

the park is filled with people of all ages who

by Craftsman and other compatible styles.

commonly referred to as the West End and

live in block after block of newly built town-

Idylwood and Country Club Place are two

Rice Military, which hug Memorial Park.

homes in all directions. Mid-rise and high-rise

well-preserved gems next to the Wortham

development has also taken root in Midtown,

Golf Course and the verdant Villa de Matel

Arguably Houston’s oldest existing neighbor-

convent. University Oaks is a tidy enclave

hood, the Sixth Ward is a compact area filled

next to the University of Houston.

with Victorian era cottages and a limited

As the gateway to the Museum District,

amount of new construction. The larger First

Midtown is developing a cultural vibe

The industrial area between Downtown and

Ward area, recently dubbed the First Ward

of its own. It’s long been home to the

Cullen Street, Eastwood’s northern boundary,

Arts District for its heavy concentration of

Ensemble

is rapidly filling with townhomes and, in a

warehouses converted into artists’ studios,

African-American theater company, and

few cases, historic warehouse loft conver-

is very active with new construction and a

new additions include the Buffalo Soldiers

sions. One of the area’s largest new projects,

limited amount of preservation.

National Museum in the stunning 1925

will have about 40 townhomes on the site of a

both for-sale and rental.

Theater,

Houston’s

resident

Houston Light Guard Armory building.

former bakery at Polk and Cullen.

Rice Military and the entire West End area

The East End revitalization has mostly stayed

other new construction in the 1990s and that

inside the 610 Loop, although Glenbrook

continues today. The name belies its prox-

Valley, located just outside the Loop near

imity to Memorial Park, which was originally

Hobby Airport, is drawing hipsters and other

Camp Logan, a World War I training camp

newcomers who love its large stock of intact

for the U.S. Army. Proximity to the Galleria

Mid-Century Modern homes.

and I-10 have added to the area’s popularity.

WASHINGTON CORRIDOR & RICE MILITARY

MIDTOWN / MUSEUM AREA

Houston’s

Avenue

largest employment centers – Downtown

corridor has seen many changes over the past

and the Texas Medical Center – Midtown is

South of the U.S. Highway 59 bridges,

100 years or so. Though signs depicting the

booming with new residential development.

Midtown gives way to the Museum

historic

Washington

began transforming with townhomes and

Sandwiched between two of

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

Houston’s

The area’s cultural bona fides got even more legit with the opening of the Midtown Arts and Theatre Center in late 2015. On the Main Street rail line, the center includes six theaters and performance spaces, a gallery, coffee shop and wine bar. Nearby, the long-awaited transformation of Midtown’s 6-acre “super block” into a residential, retail and restaurant playground over top of an underground parking facility for 360 cars is complete.

District, which has flourished both east and west of Highway 288 with historical renovations and new condos, townhomes and mid-rises. Proximity to museums, Hermann Park, Rice University and the Medical Center, plus easy access to highways, all add to the area’s appeal.

HERMANN PARK / TEXAS MEDICAL CENTER / RIVERSIDE With over 106,000 employees, the vast Texas Medical Center – the largest medical center in the world, with 54 institutions covering more than one thousand acres – has long been a catalyst for residential development. The Medical Center has played a major role in the booming growth of the suburban Highway 288 Corridor, which includes Pearland, and in recent years it has spurred a residential resurgence in its own backyard. Hermann Park was one of the first areas in Houston to offer high-rise living, with buildings including the Spires, Parklane, Warwick Towers and the nearby 5000 Montrose. Across

Highway

288,

the

Riverside

neighborhood along North and South MacGregor has a fascinating history. Developed in the 1930s as an alternative to River Oaks, which at the time did not allow Jewish residents, the neighborhood became home to many of Houston’s wealthiest families, with imposing homes in the style of French chateaux, English castles and Southern mansions. In the 1950s, Riverside became home to many of Houston’s elite African-American residents; after falling into disrepair decades later, Riverside is now enjoying a resurgence of newcomers who are restoring its stately mansions and more modest homes alike.

RICE VILLAGE / WEST UNIVERSITY / BELLAIRE The different colored street signs – red in Bellaire, blue in West University Place – are sure giveaways that these popular residential enclaves hugging the 610 Loop are separate cities. Long valued as safe and stable urban enclaves at a time when surrounding Central

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

SPOTLIGHT: INNER LOOP LIVING

Houston neighborhoods were perceived

as a walkable, pedestrian-friendly neighbor-

teardown-and-rebuild movement that is

otherwise, Bellaire, West U and the adjacent

hood with parks, plazas and a 24/7 urban

widespread across the city.

city of Southside Place never experienced

vibe. Some of the first buildings, including

the boom-and-decline cycles common to

the 21-story Sovereign apartment tower,

other parts of the Houston area. None-

have just been completed.

stately neighborhoods such as Avalon Place

transformed in past decades, with modest

Home to St. Thomas University and the

Kirby and the Highland Village shopping

frame and brick homes giving way to large

Menil Collection museum, Montrose has also

area on Westheimer.

newly constructed homes. This rebuilding

gained new grocery stores, including H-E-B

trend continues today.

and Whole Foods. The neighborhood is in

theless, these cities have been remarkably

Functioning as bedroom communities for Houston, these small cities are home to treefilled parks and esplanades, well-regarded schools, and independent police departments. Bellaire gained a significant green space about a decade ago when the city acquired the landmark Teas Nursery for a new park.

no danger of losing its funky vibe though, as nationally acclaimed new restaurants such as Underbelly and Uchi thrive alongside hipster boutiques, gay bars, coffee shops and vintage clothing stores. The Fourth Ward area, also known as Freedman’s Town, has benefitted from the appeal of its location between Montrose

These neighborhoods are also soughtafter because of their proximity to the Texas Medical Center, Rice University and the popular Rice Village shopping district. As it passes through the area, Kirby Drive is also lined with many upscale stores and restaurants.

and Downtown. It sports new restaurants and newly constructed townhomes, condos

hood, Montrose has added to its persona as home to many of the city’s GLBT residents and businesses, and now increasingly includes residents of all ages and identities. While many of the grand old homes in Montrose are being lovingly preserved, the area is increasingly seeing denser development including townhomes and mid-rises. Much of the new development

Still Houston’s ultimate address after

Bayou, just a few minutes’ drive from downtown along scenic Allen Parkway. Ranked as Houston’s most expensive neighborhood, and among the nation’s top 10 wealthiest communities, it’s home to the exclusive River Oaks Country Club. Property values are estimated to range from $1 million to over $20 million – a far cry from the $2,200 price for lots when River Oaks opened in the late 1920s. River Oaks opens its doors – or at least its garden gates – to the rest of the city for the

Susanne

from

the

annual Azalea Trail tour, and it is home

acclaimed H-E-B grocery store at Alabama

to the Museum of Fine Arts Rienzi and

and Dunlavy.

Bayou Bend House museums. The neigh-

Now under development near Waugh Dr. and Allen Parkway, the 24-acre Regent

of it, like apartments in the West Ave mixed-use project, is rental. Mirroring a trend that’s spread throughout Houston, older low-rise garden apartments are being demolished for mid-rise and high-rise apartments in Upper Kirby.

SPRING BRANCH / MEMORIAL Paralleling the westward spine of the Katy

upscale Memorial area.

at 3400 Montrose, and the 390-unit, 7-story across

a surge in residential development. Much

RIVER OAKS AND UPPER KIRBY

is rental, such as the 30-story tower rising apartments

The Upper Kirby area is also experiencing

Freeway (I-10) are two very different areas –

beautifully wooded acres along Buffalo

Houston’s original hip urban neighbor-

and Royden Oaks, stretching to Upper

and apartments.

nearly a century, River Oaks spans 1,100

MONTROSE

River Oaks is surrounded by several shady,

borhood also lends its name to the popular upscale River Oaks Shopping Center along

modest mid-century Spring Branch and the

Spring Branch, which spreads along the north side of I-10 from about the 610 Loop to Beltway 8 (Sam Houston Tollway), maintains a suburban character with post-World War II homes, 1950s era shopping plazas and tall trees. Starting in the 1970s, apartment complexes began rising in the area, leading to its eventual decline. Spring Branch is coming back, however, with young homeowners moving in to restore and expand existing homes, and homebuilders redeveloping large tracts formerly occupied by apartments and shopping centers. With names such as Bunker Hill Village and Hedwig Village, the Memorial Villages are nestled in a woody area along Memorial Drive, mostly south of I-10. Home to some of the wealthiest ZIP codes in Houston and the nation, these villages maintain a

West Gray.

rural character with winding tree-filled

project for the Montrose area. The plan

One of the ways River Oaks resem-

range from rambling brick ranch houses to

calls for 550 condominiums and 550 apart-

bles the rest of Houston is that, despite

Georgian-style mansions. Many well-kept

ments, plus 400,000 square feet of retail,

the stately architecture of its grand

townhome and condo complexes are also in

office and restaurant space. It’s envisioned

old homes, it has not escaped the

the area.

Square promises to be a transformative

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

lanes, huge lots and gated enclaves. Styles

Stretching to the Beltway and beyond, the greater Memorial area is also heavily wooded and highly desired, with mature trees, well-preserved original homes and new construction. The entire area is well-served by Memorial City Mall and the CityCentre urban-style mixed-use center. Brand new is Republic Square, 35 acres of lush grounds, an 11- acre

Photo courtesy of Röhe and Wright

lake, a field ripe for festivals, and a stunning meeting and events center.

UPTOWN / TANGLEWOOD / SHARPSTOWN Uptown is the term that Galleria area boosters have worked to establish for the entire neighborhood surrounding Houston’s

High-Rise & Mid-Rise Living High-rise buildings generally have a richer blend of amenities, because they contain more residences and are typically marketed as the ultimate in luxury living.

most iconic shopping mall. Whether you call

Since a mini-boom of high-rise buildings was built in Central Houston in the

it Uptown or simply the Galleria area, it’s

early 1980s, the area hadn’t seen many new residential towers, with the

arguably the city’s most prolific spot for high-

exception of a few in the Galleria and River Oaks areas. Today, the local

rise and mid-rise condominiums that are for

landscape for high/mid-rise is changing fast, with a growing population

sale rather than for lease.

and rising land values again making Central Houston a hotspot for new construction. Today, Downtown, Montrose, Midtown, the Hermann Park/

A good example is the Astoria, a 75-unit

Medical Center area and other neighborhoods offer many new options

high-rise on Post Oak Boulevard. Nearly sold

for living “above it all.”

out before it was completed, this 29-story Art Deco style building will surely inspire more

Throughout Central Houston, many older “garden style” apartment

new high-rise development in the area.

complexes – those with two- and three-story buildings grouped around courtyards – are being demolished to make way for mid-rise and high-rise

Just up San Felipe, the dense urban vibe

buildings. This is a result of the growing interest in Central Houston living,

of the Galleria gives way to the sedate,

along with rapidly rising land prices that make it more feasible for devel-

well-planned neighborhood of

opers to “go vertical.”

Tangle-

wood, where development started in the 1930s. Perhaps best known as the current

Beyond height, high-rise buildings generally have a richer blend of amenities,

neighborhood of former President George

because they contain more residences and are typically marketed as the

H.W. Bush, Tanglewood has parks, leafy

ultimate in luxury living. These amenities include concierge services, reserved

esplanades and large lots filled with oak

garage parking, expansive fitness centers, common areas including rooftop

trees. Original rambling ranch houses

decks with swimming pools, and perhaps retail and cafes on the lower level.

exist alongside newer Mediterranean and

A mid-rise may well offer some of these amenities, especially a fitness center

English style homes.

and pool.

A few years ago, including Sharpstown on

As far as renting vs. owning, the same pros and cons apply to mid-rise

a list of revitalizing Central Houston neigh-

and high-rise living as to traditional single-family homes and town-

borhoods would have been questionable,

homes. One big difference is that high-rise and mid-rise buildings also

but today this former suburb inside Beltway

include maintenance fees that vary, but can approach $1 per square

8 is outgrowing its label as one of Hous-

foot per month in many high-rises. Such fees typically include salaries

ton’s “best hidden neighborhoods” and is

for building staff, landscaping, insurance and building maintenance.

attracting newcomers who appreciate its

Beyond monthly fees, unit owners can be charged special assess-

mid-century homes, its relative value and

ments – sometimes totaling tens of thousands of dollars – for major

convenient location. 

maintenance items such as elevator repair and exterior renovation.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

in this section rent or buy master planned communities choosing a realtor mortgage options cost of living

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ISSUE 1

The

HOME FRONT The rapid growth of Houston means newcomers can find everything they need for a smooth move – from abundant temporary and permanent housing choices, to skilled realtors and custom builders who are eager to help.

Houston is a city of options; you can live

Begin your search for the right home at the

traditions? What about a yard? Walking or

close to your work, surrounded by nature,

Real Estate section of www.houstonnewcom-

recreational opportunities? Proximity to

in a vibrant community, near exciting

erguides.com or by visiting www.har.com.

shops and work? And the big one: schools?

amenities, or any combination of these. In

Even if you don’t have children, buying in

addition to choice, you’ll find bargains and

HOME OWNERSHIP

an area with excellent schools will pay off

with today’s low interest rates, now might be

There’s nothing like owning your own piece

when it comes time to sell.

a good time to buy a house in West Houston, where almost every housing budget can be accommodated. Single-family home buyers can choose eco-friendly designs, new homes in master-planned neighborhoods, luxury

of property to help you feel connected to an area and its people. And if you’re looking for

Of course, even after the sale goes through,

a home to call your own, West Houston has

there are costs associated with owning your

plenty of choices: brand-new custom homes,

own home. Maintenance and repairs will be

new production-builder home, townhouses,

required. One rule of thumb is to budget one

resale houses, and all have their advantages.

percent of the sale price for maintenance;

residences in gated communities or resale

The first consideration is location, location,

another is to set aside one dollar per square

homes in established districts. You may

location. Where do you want to live? What

foot per year. There’s no hard and fast rule,

want to consider leasing as well, and there

neighborhoods appeal? Do you want a new

but generally, upkeep costs will go up as the

are a range of condominiums, townhouses

housing development with the latest ameni-

age of the home increases and the condi-

and lofts available for lease or sale.

ties, or a settled community with established

tion deteriorates. Most new homes have

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

HOUSTON HOME FRONT

warranties that cover problems for the first

zoned to a desirable school? Or is it in an area

structural and hard-to-spot problems that

few years. And home warranty policies can

prone to flooding? Are there homeowner’s

need to be addressed. If repairs are needed,

be purchased for re-sale homes. In addi-

associations, deed restrictions or zoning laws?

be sure to get several estimates for the entire

tion, make sure you are aware of any deed

Remember, you can change the ugly house,

project. Use the Chambers of Commerce

restrictions or homeowner’s association

but you cannot change its ugly location. You

in this guide for referrals. In addition, the

regulations that might be in effect in your

will also want to consider your commute.

Better Business Bureau also offers important

chosen area and any corresponding assess-

How far is it to work? How does that cost in

information on home-repair companies.

ments. Taxes vary by county, school district

convenience, time and money compared to

and Municipal Utility District (MUD). The

the cost of the house?

Even if the house is sound, you may want

property taxes can be deducted from your

Realtors often specialize in particular neigh-

painting walls to removing them, you

federal income tax.

borhoods and can give you the benefit of their

may need to hire the services of a remod-

years of experience and local knowledge.

eling company to realize your dream. The

good news is that mortgage interest and

to do a little or a lot of remodeling. From

Greater

The best place to start is with a professional

Houston

Builders

Association

REALTOR , who will be able to guide you

Pre-owned homes are as different in style

(www.ghba.org) is an excellent source of

and your family to the right area and choice.

and character as their previous owners

reputable home improvement companies.

were, and often this adds wonderful appeal

Other useful sources of information are the

PRE-OWNED HOMES

and opportunity. Some homes are ready

local area Chambers of Commerce and the

Very often, pre-owned homes are situated in

to move in; some need a little work; others

Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org).

established neighborhoods. This allows you to

need transformations in order to meet your

assess the character of the community, talk to

needs. Before you purchase a pre-owned

NEW HOMES

a couple of neighbors, get a feel for the street.

home, hire a licensed inspector to analyze

If starting from scratch and building from

Watch for great locations on golf courses, near

the house, inside and out, and evaluate

the ground up appeals to you, the many

parks, lakes or shops. Is the house in an area

its condition. Inspections will identify

outstanding homebuilders in West Houston

LOOKING FOR HOMES JUST GOT EASIER…

Search more than 8 million properties

Ask Your REALTOR®

HOMES And RENTALS 36

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

are ready to help. There is a wide range of

and can accommodate newcomers who

choices for home sites – in new and estab-

need to move in quickly. Right now, homes

lished subdivisions, on the waterfront, on a

in a variety of styles, locations and price

golf course, even with a pastoral or forested

points are under construction. Please visit

setting on an acreage. A realtor can quickly

www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com

narrow down your site-selection process by

a complete list of homebuilders in the West

matching the best locations to your needs;

Houston area. The Greater Houston Builders

she can also work with you to find a builder.

Association works to “provide advocacy,

Some specialize in green building and energy

education and meaningful services to benefit

efficiency or may have advanced training

its members and the housing industry. On

from the National Association of Home

its website (www.ghba.com), you can find a

Builders (NAHB). Be sure to tour model

list of area builders, spec builders, neighbor-

homes to evaluate the designs, features, and

hoods, product and service providers, as well

workmanship of each builder. The archi-

as other consumer resources.

for

tectural styles, floor plans, interior finishes, appliance choices and other options vary, and

You may be dreaming about a custom home.

it’s important to begin fine-tuning your tastes

While building one takes time and planning,

other cases, builders work with buyers to

and preferences. Designers can help with

the effort and wait are often worth it, espe-

customize rooms, adjust square footage, add

selecting packages and upgrades to complete

cially if you work with a quality builder:

details or energy-saving features. Whatever

a home beautifully as well as on time and on

you get an outstanding, distinctive home

your new-home dream, it’s not too early to

budget. Production houses can usually be

built right to your specifications. Some

talk to a builder. You will also want to view

finished in 90 to 120 days, and most builders

customs homes are one-of-a-kind, created

homes already built by the company and, if

have homes in varying stages of completion

using original plans from the ground up. In

possible, speak to homeowners about their

embers of Willow Fork Country Club

• New Renovated Championship Golf Course • Active Tennis Associations

• New Renovated Clubhouse

belong for many reasons. We offer

golf, tennis, fitness, and swimming, as well as both casual and fine dining. We’ve also taken the next step and put a tremendous effort into providing

• Casual and Fine Dining • Social Events....

activities and events that further reach out and

I am In.

nis associations, and a virtually non-stop calendar

welcome families. With a variety of activities, including 18 holes of championship golf, active tenof social events, this is an incredible country club experience for all of our members.

Please contact Stacey Brandt, our Membership Director today at 281.579.6262 Ext. 112 or email sbrandt@willowforkclub.com to schedule a personal tour of the Club and visit about our

membership opportunities.

Willow Fork Country Club 21055 Westheimer Parkway Katy, Texas 77450

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

Choosing a Realtor

experience with the builder and the process.

The right realtor can save you thousands.

before signing a contract. Ask them how long

Be sure to interview two or more builders they’ve been in business, how many homes

Buying or selling a house involves real estate law, title insurance policies, home warranties, home-lending practices, appraisals, inspections, hazard insurance, surveys and other issues; the services of a realtor are highly recommended. Especially for people new to the area, a realtor can save time and money and provide local knowledge. A realtor can swiftly locate homes that fit with your lifestyle, price range, educational needs, and location.

they’ve completed and if they have any references. Once you’ve chosen the builder, review the contract carefully. You should understand if the final price is guaranteed, what the move-in date is and how upgrades or change orders are handled. Attorneys who specialize in construction are available to review contracts and their fee may save you

HOW DO YOU CHOOSE THE RIGHT REALTOR?

money in the long run, helping you to avoid

First, understand the difference between a real-estate agent and a realtor. Only professionals who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® (and other local associations) can use this designation and they must abide by a strict code of ethics based on competency, fairness and integrity. A realtor who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® cannot discriminate against someone based on race, religion, gender, handicap, family status or national origin.

misunderstandings and frustration.

Talk to a number of realtors before making your decision, talk to some of their previous clients and review their current and recent listings. You might want to ask the following:

because they plan for the best use of the

MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITIES The popularity of master-planned communities has been one of the reasons West Houston continues to grow. These communities are some of the finest in the country land, allowing exceptional living, lower environmental impact, quality construction, and mixed use, which attracts families

• How long have you worked in real estate?

• Is real estate your full-time job?

to thriving, vibrant neighborhoods. Large

• Do you prefer to work with buyers or sellers?

parcels of land in Katy, Fulshear and the

• Do you specialize in a particular area or neighborhood?

• What is the average price of properties that you close?

use. Housing choices in master-planned

• How many closings do you have each year?

communities focus on single-family homes

• Do you work on a team?

• D o you have any designations, cer tifications, awards or special training?

SPECIALTY CERTIFICATIONS Realtors with the CBR (Certified Buyer Representative) are exclusively committed to providing excellent buyer representation and know current real-estate practices. Realtors can also be certified as Texas Affordable Housing Specialists, which recognizes training in green technologies that can make a home more affordable. Realtors certified by Earth Advantage are trained to spot and understand the advantages of green construction. An EcoBroker designation means a realtor has extensive training in conservation and green energy. Your realtor should be someone who is an expert on the area and the industry. But she should also be easy to work with and willing to listen – the process should be enjoyable as well as productive.

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

and businesses alike. All of this adds up

Grand Parkway area have been carefully set out for home sites and commercial

in a variety of styles, sizes and price points. However,

townhouses

and

apartment

homes are also included in the planned areas and they often share common greenbelts and recreational facilities. Schools, shopping, health care and other services are close to home and, very often, so is work or a transit center which cuts down, or softens the commute. Master planners understand that their designs are for people and their communities are further enriched by youth sports leagues, welcoming recreation centers, and local events, all of which bring neighbors together.

APARTMENT HOMES If you move a lot, or if your budget does not allow for a home purchase, renting or leasing might be the answer for you. Many

rental houses and apartment homes are

be necessary. Discuss any special housing

Most single-family houses do not include

available in West Houston right now. The

requirements you may have with the leasing

utilities in the lease, so tenants must arrange

prices are determined by location, square

agent and be sure that the terms are written

for electricity, water, gas, cable and internet

footage, and amenities.

into the lease. In Texas, all real estate agree-

separately. Deposits are usually one-month’s

ments must be in writing. Go to the Houston

rent and there may be extra fees for pets,

Apartment locators or leasing agents at the

Apartment Association (www.haaonline.org)

utility installations or service charges. Rental

complexes are ready to answer questions,

to download sample lease forms.

rates vary as much as the properties on offer,

assist with move-in details and help new

starting at around $2000 per month and

residents become familiar with the neighbor-

RENTAL HOUSES

increasing with the size, location, and condi-

hood. Select properties provide apartment

Need more room or amenities than an

tion of the property.

information, floor plans, photos and virtual

apartment can offer? Houses, condos and

tours online. What may be considered luxu-

townhomes can also be leased and are usually

TEMPORARY LODGING

rious in other parts of the country is standard

listed with area realtors or property manage-

Interim housing with a range of rental terms

in West Houston. Many units have fireplaces,

ment companies. Sometimes, individual

is also available. Motels, hotels and luxury

ceiling fans, built-in microwaves, washer/

owners will list their units in area newspapers

suites are often handy to business districts

dryer connections, on-site recreational facil-

or online. Rental houses and townhomes are

and key roads and can be found throughout

ities and covered parking. Some facilities

listed on the Houston Association of Realtors

West Houston. Many offer exercise rooms,

allow pets. Most require a security deposit

website (www.HAR.com) and are updated

Wi-fi, jacuzzis and mini kitchens. Short stays

and a credit card report; leases range from six

every 15 minutes.

are a convenient necessity during a move,

months to one year. Month-to-month leases

but if you stay longer than 30 consecutive

are available but usually command higher

Realtors are the best source for leasing

days, you will qualify for an exemption from

prices. Complexes have different plans for

single-family homes. Check out preferred

the state’s six percent hotel tax. Be sure to

utilities, cable and Internet service, and addi-

neighborhoods,

community

advise the hotel of your extended stay and

tional deposits and activations services may

pools, civic associations and deed restrictions.

go to www.cpa.state.tx.us for an exemption

considering

Touching Lives, One Home at a Time.

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HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

HOUSTON HOME FRONT

In addition, the lending climate may be easier for first-time buyers. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the two federally chartered mortgage corporations, recently relaxed lending guidelines that were tightened after the national housing in 2008. Now, some buyers can get a mortgage with only a 3 percent down payment and a minimum FICO credit score of 620. Homebuyer assistance programs are also offered by various government agencies. Some groups, including teachers, police officers and firefighters, may also qualify for special assistance programs.

HOW MUCH CAN YOU AFFORD?

certificate. (Always consult a tax professional

property and are then bound by its rules and

for specific tax information).

enforcement power. Often, there is an annual

Determining an affordable purchase price for a home is the essential first step to home ownership. Experts recommend spending about 28 percent of the household budget on housing, and a recent Rice University study found that Houston area residents typically spend about 30 percent of their incomes on housing, so the city overall is right in line with that advice, albeit slightly on the high side.

maintenance fee.

DEED RESTRICTIONS Deed restrictions, land-use and building regu-

People are buying houses in Houston; in

lations, protect homeowners and their property

fact, the Houston Association of Realtors

value. Often functioning in place of zoning

recently reported that home sales were up

laws, they ensure a home is not turned into a

by 3.8 percent from the same time last year.

commercial establishment or apartment. Deed

And the median home price increased to

restrictions are recorded in county records

$291,340 because of a strong showing of

and are binding for all property owners. Some

luxury home sales. However, Houston still

master-planned communities have stricter

ranks as one of the most affordable big cities

restrictions to ensure the continued success of

in the U.S. for homeownership, and is a

the development. New homeowners should

place where homes tend to retain their value

be familiar with existing deed restrictions and

because of new buyers entering the market.

consult them before making any improvements “In all, Houston’s economic diversity and

to the property.

health will continue to protect and preserve

COMMUNITY AND HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATIONS

home values over the long haul, and it will

In many neighborhoods, community and

and raise a family,” says Houston real estate

homeowner

expert and blogger Toni Nelson.

associations

establish

and

continue to be a great place to live, work

enforce deed restrictions, and all property owners are required to be members.

West Houston offers a great deal of value

Most community associations are set up as

within the greater Houston region. Highly

non-profit corporations and are comprised of

regarded schools, vast parks and a thriving

property owners within the development. New

economy add further value to home choices

homeowners become automatic members of

that range from townhomes to estate homes,

the association when they acquire title to the

both newly built and existing.

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

Experts also suggest that household expenses not exceed 43 percent of personal income before taxes. The mortgage payment, insurance, credit card balances, utilities, food and health care as well as any payments on outstanding loans and leases are expenses, while household income includes salary and other declared revenue such as dividends and royalties. In the case of townhomes, condos and other types of housing where a monthly maintenance fee is charged, that too must be considered in the overall expenses. Developed by the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, the Texas Housing Affordability Index (THAI) refers to the ability of a median-income family to purchase a median-priced house in an area, reflecting the capacity of that family to qualify for a mortgage, using standard financing terms. A THAI of 1.00 indicates that the median household income is just enough to qualify for a loan to purchase the median-priced home; a ratio of less than 1.0 suggests that the family cannot afford the house.

MORTGAGE OPTIONS

the monthly house payment. Escrow

paying

Several different types of mortgages are common today. A standard 30-year fixed rate mortgage is the most common way to finance a home; 15-year fixed rate mortgages are another option. The 40-year mortgage has become more popular in some parts of the country where home prices are rising fast, but many experts agree that the tradeoff of a slightly lower monthly payment for much more interest paid over the life of the loan does not make economic sense.

money for taxes and insurance is added

(PMI), although it is possible to take out a

to the payments according to the terms

secondary loan to avoid PMI.

For all fixed-rate loans, the amount of the mortgage, payment, the interest rate and the term of the loan are fixed and fully self-amortizing, which means at the end of the term, the principal has been repaid. The purchase price less the down payment is the principal of the mortgage. Dividing the principal by the number of payments in a 30- year or 15- year mortgage and adding the interest determines

Private

Mortgage

Insurance

of the lender, and the amounts are recalculated annually.

INTEREST RATES

The Alternative Mortgage Instrument (AMI) is a loan in which at least one of

the four components varies. The

most common AMI is the Adjustable Rate Mortgage with a variable interest rate. Customarily, the ARM interest rate begins low and periodically adjusts either up or down within limits based on a pre-specified index. The initial low

Interest rates fluctuate frequently and vary from lender to lender.

Interest on

a 30-year fixed rate mortgage is likely to be different from that of a 15-year, and adjustable rate mortgages reset according to the terms of the lender. Interest rates are expected to continue to remain near historic lows.

rate, and therefore, the lower monthly

CLOSING COSTS

payment, enables the buyer to meet the

Typically, between 2 to 5 percent of the

income and debt-ratio requirement.

purchase price of a home, closing costs include related fees such as costs for

DOWN PAYMENT

running credit reports, loan origination,

The down payment is the cash committed

appraisal, survey, title insurance, and

toward the purchase of a home. For most

discount points paid to lower the interest

loans, a down payment of 20 percent of

rate. Closing costs are usually paid by the

the purchase price is required to avoid

buyer at the time of closing.

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HOUSTON HOME FRONT

PRE-APPROVAL VS. PRE-QUALIFICATION Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is beneficial because it gives sellers a level of assurance that the prospective buyer can obtain a mortgage – a big plus in a competitive market. Pre-approval requires the completion of a loan application and sometimes a fee. Pre-qualification, on the other hand, is just an estimate of a mortgage that a prospective buyer might qualify for.

TAX DEDUCTIONS Some home purchase costs are deductible if you itemize deductions. These costs may include mortgage interest, real estate taxes and PMI payments. For more information, visit www.irs.gov or ask your tax preparer or attorney.

CREDIT REPORTS Lenders need your credit report, which is an analysis of your credit history over the last seven-to-ten years. Called the FICO score, it includes your employment history, your payment activity, the amount you owe, the amount of available credit you’re using, the length of the history, any new credit and other factors. You will be scored anywhere between 301 and 850, with anything over 740 considered an excellent score. Higher scores lead to better loans and lower rates. There are three credit reporting agencies and you may contact them to obtain your credit history.

BANKS Banks offer a full range of services that usually include mortgages at competitive rates. In addition to checking and savings accounts,

their

mortgage

lending

another option for homebuyers. Be sure to ask about fees associated with the bank’s services, different accounts, minimum balance

requirements,

ATM

charges,

availability of funds policy, direct deposit and other options. Contact the Texas Department of Banking toll free 877-276-5554 or visit www.dob.texas.gov.

CREDIT UNIONS Credit unions are a good source for mort-

FREE CREDIT REPORTS You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three credit reporting agencies once every 12 months. You can request all three reports at once, or space them out throughout the year.

TRANSUNION® 1-877-322-8228 www.transunion.com

EQUIFAX

1-800-685-1111 www.equifax.com

EXPERIAN® 1-888-397-3742 www. Experian.com

gage loans because they may offer lower or competitive rates. Historically, credit unions have been employer-based financial institutions but today it is common for credit unions to be community-based, meaning that anyone can use a credit union as their primary financial institution. Members are insured for up to $250,000 per account by the National Credit Union Administration. More information about credit unions is available from the Texas Credit Union League (www.tcul.org) and the Credit Union National Association (www.cuna.org).

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

HOMEOWNER’S INSURANCE

of overall property value, and it may be a

The City of Houston, Harris County

Homeowner’s insurance is required by

good idea to talk with several insurance

and other governmental entities also

mortgage lenders, and is essential even

companies – especially those who specialize

offer

if a home is paid for. Buyers are typi-

in the area – to make sure you are getting

that can provide down payment assis-

cally asked to pay one year of insurance

ample coverage and the best rate.

tance and special financing for buyers

at closing, with premiums included in monthly mortgage payments.

homebuyer

assistance

programs

who meet certain household income and Many companies offer discounts when home insurance is combined with auto coverage,

purchase price criteria. Helpful websites include www.houstontx.gov/housing and

Selecting an insurance company and deter-

life insurance, health insurance and other

mining coverage is the responsibility of

types of insurance that may be required. In

the buyer, and should begin as soon as the

the Houston and surrounding areas, flood

Other programs include Southeast Texas

contract to purchase a house is accepted by

insurance is required or recommended by

Housing Finance (www.sethfc.com) and

the seller.

mortgage companies in some neighborhoods.

the Harris County Downpayment Assis-

Check with your builder, realtor or lender to

tance Program (harriscountytx.gov/csd).

determine the status of your property.

Information is also available from the

The

Texas

Board

Insurance

(www.tdi.state.tx.gov) is a valuable source

Texas Department of Housing & Commu-

FIRST-TIME HOME BUYERS

of information. In some fast-transitioning West Houston neighborhoods, the value of the lot may represent a much larger-than-average share

www.hrc.hctx.net.

nity Affairs (www.tdhca.state.tx.us ).

A variety of programs are designed to help first-time buyers, including FHA loans with a 3 percent down payment as previously discussed.

Realtors, mortgage lenders and builders are also good sources of information about available homebuyer assistance programs. 

COST OF LIVING When it comes to overall cost of living, Houston is still an affordable place to live and work. Here’s how the Houston area ranked in a comparison to other major U.S. cities (based on Q2 2018) CITY

COMPOSITE 100%

GROCERY 13.47%

HOUSING 28.15%

UTILITIES 9.90%

Atlanta

100.5

102.2

101.4

86.6

100.2

108.3

102.1

Austin

98.5

88.2

101.8

94.6

90.2

101.2

102.8

Boston

147.4

106.8

211.2

122.8

112.7

135.7

129.2

Chicago

123.8

107.9

157.2

92.4

126.7

101.5

114.1

Cleveland

99.4

112.4

86.4

100.0

100.7

100.6

104.1

Dallas/Fort Worth

104.3

102.8

106.8

106.2

98.1

102.7

104.2

Denver

111.9

97.6

136.3

85.3

102.7

104.5

108.6

Houston

97.5

86.5

102.4

110.3

98.9

92.1

94.5

NYC - Manhattan

242.4

141.8

514.1

117.1

127.9

115.3

143.8

Phoenix

96.8

97.7

94.9

108.4

95.5

97.5

94.8

Pittsburgh

99.1

109.9

92.7

106.2

106.7

92.3

97.0

Raleigh

93.8

99.5

85.1

92.6

99.3

99.6

96.9

San Francisco

194.7

128.6

363.4

125.1

133.9

126.1

128.7

Seattle

151.9

127.0

207.5

112.8

134.4

122.8

136.1

Tuscon

93.9

102.1

79.3

99.0

97.8

99.8

99.3

TRANSPORTATION

8.99%

HEALTHCARE 4.57%

MISC. 34.925%

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

houston school districts private schools higher education

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ISSUE 1

Photo Courtesy of British International School of Houston; Paul Pacey Photography

in this section

EDUCATION IN HOUSTON

The only thing more expensive than investing in education is not investing in education. School districts in the Houston area offer students an impressive array of high quality educational opportunities through STEM programs and other studies.

CENTRAL HOUSTON EDUCATION Ask anyone why they love living in Central Houston, and most mention the arts, restaurants, culture, convenience and other perks of urban life. Public education would probably not rank high on the list, but that is changing as the fast-growing population of Central Houston increasingly includes families with school-age children. It might take more research to find a great school in Central Houston than in the suburbs, but a little extra effort can reward you with many exciting options for public schools as well as private and parochial schools with strong traditions of academic excellence. With a few exceptions, such as the Spring Branch area, the Houston Independent School District covers most of Central Houston. While it never ranks as high as

top suburban districts on district-wide test scores and other metrics, HISD has many academic jewels that are among the best in the nation.

many HISD magnet programs covering diverse interests. Wilson Montessori in Montrose is HISDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first all-Montessori school, serving grades K-8.

These include HISDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s well-known specialty high schools, such as the High School for the Performing & Visual Arts, Carnegie Vanguard, and the DeBakey High School for Health Professions. Many neighborhood high schools, such as Lamar High School in the Montrose/River Oaks area, have well-regarded academics and special programs, such as International Baccalaureate.

HISD also has more than 20 charter schools including the Energized for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) Academy and the Young Scholars Academy for Excellence.

Many HISD neighborhood elementary schools are also excellent and much soughtafter, the result of hard work by dedicated staff and parents. Some of the most notable HISD primary campuses include River Oaks Elementary and Harvard Elementary in the Heights. Poe Elementary near the Museum District is an arts magnet school, one of

Most students living within HISD boundaries may apply to attend a magnet or charter school, although competition can be stiff for some campuses. Many other HISD schools have open enrollment boundaries, although preference is typically given to students living within the neighborhood attendance zones. Central Houston also has many private and parochial schools that are as diverse as the city itself. These include the Awty

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

E D U C AT I O N I N H O U S T O N

CHARTER SCHOOLS Charter schools operate under fewer rules, which allows for innovation, flexibility and more personalized learning. They offer tuition-free open enrollment and may specialize in a specific area; some offer students in higher grades the chance to take high school and college courses simultaneously. Charter schools must be fiscally and academically as accountable as public schools, adhere to the Texas Education Agency curriculum standards and give their students STAAR tests. The State of Texas provides funds based on the average daily attendance of the students, just as it does for public schools; however, charter schools do not receive funds from local tax revenue and

Photo Courtesy of Fort Bend Christian Academy

most do not receive state facilities funding. Visit Texas Charter Schools Association at

International School in Spring Branch,

an impressive array of high-quality educa-

popular with Houston’s thriving interna-

tional opportunities.

tional community, and schools affiliated with virtually every religious tradition. Great sources for researching local schools include Children at Risk, (childrenatrisk. org), which publishes annual rankings of area schools, with campus-by-campus data. The Texas Education Agency evaluates public schools and districts under state

But learning isn’t just for kids; there are excellent facilities for adult training and continuing education in the area or right nearby.

State

Texas

Assessments

Academic Readiness Program measures a

and federal accountability requirements.

child’s academic growth, and college and

Its latest reports are at www.tea.texas.gov.

career readiness. Reading and mathematics

More helpful websites include www.great-

are tested each year in grades three to eight;

schools.org and www.houstonisd.org.

writing in grades four and seven; science in

WEST HOUSTON EDUCATION “What are the schools like?” This is one of the first questions a new Houstonian with a family will ask. And in West Houston, the answer is: “Pretty, darn good!”

HOUSTON-AREA PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS Houston Independent School District

STUDENT ASSESSMENT: STAAR The

www.txcharterschools.org.

www.houstonisd.org • 713-556-6000 The Houston Independent School District is the largest public school system in Texas and the seventh largest in the United States. HISD is focused on providing safe, secure schools where students can excel and prepare for college and careers.

grades five and eight; social studies in grade

The district has at least 27,000 full-time

eight and end-of-course (EOC) assessments

employees, educates more than 209,000

are required for English 1, English 11,

students in 280 schools spread out over 333

algebra 1, biology and U.S. history, which

square miles. 96% of rated HISD schools

count for 15% of the final grade in that

met state student progress standards, and the

course. www.tea.texas.gov.

district has reduced students’ drop-out rate by 43% in the last 8 years.

SPECIAL NEEDS STUDENTS Students enrolling in Texas Public Schools

HISD stands out as a district of choice with a robust portfolio of schools, including

Top-notch education has long been a major

can be tested for dyslexia and related disor-

ingredient in West Houston’s winning recipe

ders. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act

for quality of life, and one of the key reasons

prohibits discrimination and assures that

the area’s population continues to increase.

students who are disabled by a physical

high schools and career academies, and

West Houston is home to some of the largest

or mental impairment have educational

other specialized programs. The district

and most respected public school districts in

opportunities equal to those provided to

works to ensure all students have access

Texas and the U.S., and offers its residents

non-disabled students.

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

strong neighborhood campuses, magnet and vanguard schools, charter schools, fine arts and language programs, early college

global

| CONTINUED PAGE 48 >

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E D U C AT I O N I N H O U S T O N

for the next generation: CFISD offers an unparalleled universal public education experience for all children. A fiscal leader in Texas, the district is one of only three to earn a five-star rating from Texas Smart Schools for all six years of the program. CFISD opened its 11th high school in late August and currently has 8 new construction projects and other renovation plans underway. The professionals at CFISD work to maximize every student’s potential through rigorous and relevant learning experiences preparing students to be 21st Century global leaders. Fort Bend Independent School District www.fortbendisd.com • 281-634-1000 Photo Courtesy of Grace School

One of the most highly regarded school districts in Texas, the Fort Bend Indepeneducation and are prepared to compete

test scores, the number of students taking

and be successful in a global society

advanced classes, graduation rates and

upon graduation.

other metrics. Most recently, it was named the best school district in the Hous-

Katy Independent School District

ton-Metro area by Niche, and was selected

www.katyisd.org | 281-396-6000

for District Administration’s District of

Katy

ISD

fast-growing

district

currently teaching over 77,956 students, but welcoming about 2500 more each year.

Distinction Award. For the second year in a row, Katy ISD community surpassed one million volunteer hours. Cypress-Fairbanks Independent

encompasses 181 square miles. Right now,

School District www.cfisd.net • 281-897-4000

high schools, but a soon-to-be completed

K-12 public education system and has more than 76,000 students attending 80 campuses. These include 11 high schools, 15 middle schools, 50 elementary schools and three unique secondary campuses addressing specialized academic need and vocational interests. With more than 11,000 full and part-time employees, FBISD is the largest employer in Fort Bend County.

It serves parts of Fort Bend County and there are 66 campuses, including 7 four-year

dent School District offers an outstanding

FBISD is also one of the state’s most culturally diverse districts, so the schools work with students, their families and the is

community to meet each student’s unique

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, with a student

needs. FBISD, its campuses and its students

enrollment of almost 115,000. It is the

are routinely recognized for exemplary

KISD offers an outstanding instructional

second-largest district in the Houston

achievements by organizations such as

program with facilities, equipment and

area, the third-largest in the state, and was

The National Merit Scholars Program, the

materials that are among the best in the

awarded the TEA’s highest possible rating

National Association of Music Merchants,

state, and every KISD campus achieved the

of Met Standard for the fourth straight

Children at Risk, and the United States

highest possible rating under the 2018 Texas

year. CFISD is a destination district for its

Presidential

state accountability system.

college/career preparation, extracurricular

District’s high schools have also earned top

elementary school will open at near-maximum capacity soon.

Another

fast-growing

district

Scholars

Program.

The

prowess and award-winning programs.

rankings in national rankings from News-

Each year, the district receives many acco-

With a diverse student population (students

week and U.S. News & World Report.

lades. Katy ISD schools earn some of the

speak more than 100 languages or dialects),

highest ratings in Texas from GreatSchools.

it is proof of the visionary work of

Fort Bend ISD is committed to its mission

org and Children At Risk, two nonprofit

educators, businesses, organizations and

to inspire and equip all students to pursue

groups that provide rankings based on

taxpayers who believe in making life better

futures beyond what they can imagine.

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

Lamar Consolidated

was named a member of the comptrol-

International

Independent School District

ler’s Honors Circle for financial and

Baccalaureate

options in grades 7-12.

www.lcisd.org • 832-223-0000

academic excellence.

program

SBISD follows a small neighborhood school The

Lamar

Consolidated

Independent

School District is another major player in the

Spring Branch Independent School District

concept where attendance areas have been

educational lineup for the West Houston and

www.springbranchisd.com • 713-464-1511

Students go to the schools from kindergarten

Some of West Houston’s most desirable and

through high school in the attendance area

established neighborhoods are served by the

in which they live, and campus attendance

Spring Branch Independent School District,

zones rarely change.

Katy areas. Covering more than 384 square miles, LCISD is one of the area’s largest districts geographically, with an enrollment that exceeds 32,000 students at 43 campuses. While welcoming growth, LCISD has kept its small-town values, focusing on putting students first. Campuses are designed with smaller enrollments and sixth-grade-only campuses focus on the needs of pre-adolescents to provide a smooth transition to secondary schools. Lamar CISD is

which encompasses about 44 square miles

established for each individual school.

of wooded suburbs and vibrant business

About half of all SBISD campuses (18) are

districts located west of downtown Houston

rated Recognized or Exemplary by the Texas

along the Katy Freeway. With an enrollment

Education Agency (TEA); SBISD is ranked

of more than 35,000 students, SBISD has

an Acceptable School District by TEA.

26 traditional elementary schools, 7 regular middle schools, 4 traditional high schools and 4 special campuses.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN CENTRAL HOUSTON

an HEB Excellence in Education Large

SBISD also operates two innovative and

District winner and home to National

highly rated charter schools. Cornerstone

The Branch School

Principals of the Years, Gates Millennium

Academy is a middle school, and West-

www.thebranchschool.org • 713-465-0288

Scholars, National Blue Ribbon Schools,

chester Academy for International Studies

Rodeo Art Grand Champions, and State

is a middle and high school campus

The Branch School, established in 1977,

Athletic Champions. Recently, the district

where students can pursue challenging

is a private school in West Houston with

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E D U C AT I O N I N H O U S T O N

a mission to inspire preschool through eighth grade students to love, learn, and lead. Located at 1424 Sherwood Forest St., Houston 77043, the school is conveniently located near the Energy Corridor and City Centre. At The Branch School, children will receive a world-class education in a nurturing, diverse community that emphasizes kindness and respect. Accredited by the Independent Schools Association of the Southwest (ISAS) and AdvancED, The Branch School embraces the best practices in education and provides preschool, elementary, and middle school students a strong foundation with skills for the 21st century. The school’s curriculum has a Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Math (STEAM) focus and incorporates inquiry-based, project-based, and collaborative learning opportunities. This hands-on learning approach, such as nature studies in our Outdoor Classroom, will enable your child to apply concepts to real-world applications and develop a lifelong love of learning. The Branch School’s low student/teacher ratio enables individualized attention and differentiated instruction, allowing children to progress and be challenged appropriately. Their faculty and staff provide a nurturing and accepting environment where children will feel safe to take risks and explore new concepts. With the school’s focus on character development, environmental stewardship, and global citizenship, they want children to be open to learning about other cultures and able to collaborate in activities which serve to solve global problems for the benefit of all mankind. Schedule a tour today on their website, www.thebranchschool.org, or call 713-465-0288 to visit their beautiful campus and learn more about being a Branch School Bear. Memorial Lutheran School www.memoriallutheranschool.org 713-782-4022 Memorial Lutheran School is a Classical Lutheran School offering small classes and programs for infants through

Photo Courtesy of School of the Woods

the 8th grade. Pre-School through 8th

Primrose School of Upper Kirby

grade students attend daily chapel, and

www.primroseschools.com/schools/upper-kirby

their Early Start children attend Chapel

713-522-6700

twice a week. MLS offers a strong music program that includes General music class, orchestra, band, choir and chimes. Core subjects include Phonics, History, Math, Science, and a comprehensive Language Arts program (Writing, Reading, Grammar, Spelling and Vocabulary) and Latin (1st - 8th grade).

The Primrose Experience: Building the Right Foundation for Future Learning and Life. Choosing the right care for your child is one of the most important decisions you will make as a parent. At the end of the day, it comes down to entrusting the care of your child to a provider that will give you peace of mind and give your child the best

Memorial Lutheran provides technology by way of one-to-one Chromebooks in middle school, iPads, a computer lab, and interactive white boards in each classroom. Athletic offerings include soccer, volleyball, basketball, cheerleading, track, softball and baseball. Extracurricular programs include academic competitions, National Junior Honor Society, outdoor education, debate, and Bible Bowl. A before and after school extended program

possible experience. Primrose Schools is an accredited early childhood education preschool that offers a premier educational child care experience for families across the country. The Primrose Experience starts with fostering a strong connection and partnership with parents to help build the right foundation for future learning and success in school and in life.

and summer camp are also offered. Early

For the last sixteen years Mr. & Mrs.

Childhood: Infants, Toddlers, Twos, Threes,

Papadopulos have been the franchise

Pre-K 4; Elementary Level: Grades K to 4;

owners for Primrose Schools of Pearland

Middle School: Grades 5 to 8.

and Primrose School of First Colony. They have provided for the Pearland and

Tours of the school can be scheduled by

Sugarland families a nurturing environ-

calling the admissions office at 713-782-

ment where children are happy, safe and

4022.

the

having fun while learning. The Papa-

Galleria area. Application or inquiry can

dopulos’ are looking to bring that same

be made on the school’s website – www.

Primrose School experience to the Upper

memoriallutheranschool.org.

Kirby community. |

Conveniently

located

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

CONTINUED PAGE 52 >

Primrose School at Greenway Plaza & Primrose School of Upper Kirby YOUR CHILD’S PATH TO EDUCATIONAL DISCOVERY BEGINS HERE We believe who children become is as impor tant as what they know. For over 30 years, Primrose Schools has helped empower children like yours to reach their full potential. Our exclusive, time-tested Balanced Learning approach was created from the best early education wisdom of balancing pu r poseful play and nu r tu r ing guidance to encourage curiosity, confidence, creativity and compassion. Prop r ieta r y Cu r r icu l um: Resea rch - i nfo r med and time-tested Training: We train our people to be the best Equipment: From tables and chairs to toys and books, every piece of equipment is chosen for a purpose Assessment: Highly personalized and tailored to each age level We know that a child’s interests can lead to exciting exploration, discovery and understanding of the world. That’s why our proprietary curriculum integrates language and literacy; science, technology, engineering, creative

arts and math (STEAM); social studies; music; physical development and health; and compassion, kindness and life skills continuously throughout the day. Your Child’s Path to Educational Discovery Begins Here Every stage of your child’s education is filled with age-appropriate, enriching experiences led by our passionate, committed and caring staff. Infant to Preschool Classrooms: Inspiring curiosity and wonder in the Primrose Wonder Program. Preschool through Kindergarten Classrooms: Encouraging children to venture out and discover the world around them in the Primrose Venture Program. After School Care for ages 5 to 10: Stimulating continued exploration of a child’s individual interests in the Primrose Explorers Program. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL OR VISIT ONE OF OUR LOCATIONS

FACT:

A baby loves peek-a-boo when he begins to understand an object exists, even when not in view. BALANCED LEARNING® WAY:

We have teachers who could represent the U.S. in peek-a-boo. SPOTS ARE LIMITED. ENROLL TODAY! Primrose School at Greenway Plaza 713.888.0848 | PrimroseGreenwayPlaza.com Primrose School of Upper Kirby 713.522.6700 | PrimroseUpperKirby.com

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Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools® and Balanced Learning® are registered trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2018 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved. See primroseschools.com for ‘fact’ source and curriculum detail.

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Photo Courtesy of British International School of Houston; Paul Pacey Photography

What makes the Primrose Experience unique? The People and Culture. One reason parents choose Primrose is because they know they are leaving their children with qualified, caring

Photo Courtesy of Yorkshire Academy

Corporation Systems Accreditation which ensures each school’s adherence to AdvancED Standards for Quality Early Learning Schools.

people. The management team members and teachers exceed expectations by creating and maintaining trusted relationships with every family they serve, and share their vision: To deliver the best and most trusted early childhood education and child care services for

Now, the community is set to turn another page as they realize the long-held dream of a St. Francis high school. Slated to open to its founding freshman class in the 2018–19 school year, the St. Francis Upper School will

St. Francis Episcopal School www.StFrancisHouston.org • 713.458.6117 Imaginative, critical thinkers and people for others. At St. Francis, they believe their

reimagine the traditional high school experience, emphasizing thematic learning over staid survey courses and 21st century skills over the rote memorization of decades past.

families across America.

mission matters. So from the Reggio-in-

St. Michael Catholic School

spired approach in Primary School to the

www.stmichaelcs.org • 713-621-6847

The Balanced Learning System. The Prim-

inquiry-based environment of Lower School

rose Balanced Learning System provides

to the hotbed of 21st century learning that is

Established in 1954, St. Michael Catholic

high-quality

experiences

the St. Francis Middle School, they engage

School (SMCS), conveniently located near the

that support children’s development as

and inspire students to think critically,

Galleria, is one of Houston’s leading schools

well-rounded individuals. The Balanced

explore deeply, and take the academic and

for children three years of age through eighth

Learning curriculum addresses children’s

artistic leaps that allow them to mature in

grade. Its mission is to form disciples of

social-emotional, cognitive, creative and

independence and innovation.

Christ through an education focused on faith,

educational

conscience, scholarship, and service.

physical development as they determine what experiences children need at different age levels. The curriculum is reviewed and updated annually to ensure continued alignment with early learning standards. The Standards of Excellence. Primrose Schools holds schools to high standards of excellence with the implementation of quality assurance

and

continuous

improvement

through an internal Service Excellence Assurance program and an external AdvancED

At St. Francis, success equals so much more than a grade on paper. On their two campuses, more than 900 students live, grow, and give together through beloved annual service projects; 40-plus teams in 13 sports; rousing theatre and choir productions; three orchestras; unforgettable living-history events; and a dizzying array of school-day and after-school enrichment programs—all while worshipping side by side during regular chapel and Eucharist services.

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

To ensure classroom success and prepare students for challenges beyond campus life, St. Michael Catholic School integrates faith and knowledge to educate the whole person, offering religious education and sacramental training; enhanced creative writing programs; Spanish courses; interactive science curriculum

enhanced

hands-on

learning,

competitive and award winning athletics; service and leadership opportunities; fine

“

Home to some of the largest and most highly rated public school districts in Texas and the U.S., West Houston offers its residents an impressive array of high quality educational opportunities.

”

arts, music, and performing arts instruction; academic rallies such as Prep Bowl, National Junior Honor Society, honors math and science courses; and a Sacred Art History program that is unique to SMCS. The campus occupies more than ten acres of land and serves approximately 500 co-ed students in a state-of-the-art 70,000 squarefoot LEED-certified building with two computer labs; laptop and tablet mobile

PRIVATE SCHOOLS IN WEST HOUSTON Ascension Episcopal School www.aeshouston.org • 713-783-0260 Ascension Episcopal School is a small private school located in the Westchase District of Houston, TX. AES is a diverse community committed to guiding each child toward academic excellence while promoting Christian values and cultivating their God given around 180 students a year ages 3 mos to 5th

books for middle school students; science

grade, but will now expand to accepts students

labs capable of plant and animal studies

for middle school ages as well. AES will offer a

and in-depth lab experiments; two fully-

unique blend of traditional education methods

equipped art rooms and a kiln room; library,

and modern techniques while including

including media center and resource room;

parents in the overall educational success

regulation athletic field for football, soccer,

of each child. The classroom average is 9

practice track and gymnasium with boys’

students per class with a low student to teacher

and girls’ locker rooms and two concession

ratio which assures individual attention while

stands; a school chapel that offers an area for reflection and spiritual development; and dedicated performing arts classrooms. These facilities provide students with the most current educational tools and resources. St. Michael Catholic School graduates are accepted to Houston’s most premier private and public high schools that include: St.

building leadership skills and confidence. AES seeks to train and develop each of its

The British International School of Houston (BISH) is the city’s premier independent school committed to creating the highest quality learning environment in the world. The school ensures that students are equipped with the skills they will need to be successful in the future workplace. Serving children from Pre-K to 12th Grade, learning and achievement at BISH is supported by collaborations with The Juilliard School, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and FIRST® LEGO® League. These collaborations have allowed the school to fully embed STEAM programming throughout all year groups. The campus spans 34-acres and features purpose driven technology developed in conjunction with Apple, customizable maker spaces, state-ofthe-art science labs, three athletic fields, an aquatic centre, two NCAA regulation size gymnasiums, and a 550-seat performing

Class Sizes

Small

Grade

talents. For over 45 years AES has educated

one-to-one device program using Chrome

www.bishouston.org • 713-290-9025

Months

labs; SMART Board in each classroom;

The British International School of Houston (BISH)

students in the intellectual physical, social and emotional areas of their personality. The school has many after-school clubs such as science, art, dance, martial arts, and cooking. AES also offers sports to students beginning in Pre-K.

Agnes Academy, St. Thomas High School,

AES provides a nurturing atmosphere in

Strake Jesuit College Preparatory, Duchesne

which understanding, tolerance, self-esteem

Academy of the Sacred Heart, Incarnate

and confidence are instilled. Before and after

Word Academy, St. Pius X High School,

school care is offered at Ascension Epis-

Episcopal High School, The Kinkaid School,

copal School, located at 2525 Seagler Road,

and the High School for the Performing and

Houston, TX 77042. Visit their website or call

Visual Arts.

to schedule your tour today!

and Club Activities Team Sports More Than A School. We Are Family! www.aeshouston.org (713) 783-0260 2525 Seagler Road Houston TX 77042

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arts theater designed in collaboration with Juilliard. Every aspect of the school is centered around learners and learning. From the innovative design of a new 275,000-square-foot building to their extensively trained teachers, BISH is committed to offering a world-class, personalized learning approach that enables each student to excel. Graduates achieve outstanding academic success through the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and gain acceptance to the finest universities and colleges in the US, UK and around the world. Students at BISH have access to incredible educational opportunities because it is part of Nord Anglia Education (NAE), the world’s premium schools organization. With 44 international schools around the world,

Photo Courtesy of Yorkshire Academy

including China, Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and North America, NAE educates more than 38,000 students glob-

International School of Houston is acces-

Faith West Academy

ally. Conveniently located off IH10 at N.

sible to families residing in all cities across

www.faithwest.org • 281-391-LOVE

Westgreen Boulevard and just minutes

the Greater Houston Area, including Katy,

from the Grand Parkway, the British

Houston, The Woodlands and Sugarland.

Faith West Academy (FWA) is a private elementary and secondary school with enrollment of 400 students in preschool through

Faith West Academy

twelfth grade. The senior class of 2019 had 60 students. The school operates on the principles of Christian faith and incorporates these principles in its purposes, goals, procedures and operations. FWA is known for its high

• Preschool - 12th Grade • Advanced Technology Classrooms • Individualized Learning Programs • I-20/International Students • Extended Care Available • FFA and 4-H Programs • Top State Awards Academics Agriculture Athletics Fine Arts

Celebrating Thirty-seven Years of Academic Excellence 281.391.5683

2225 Porter Road Katy, TX 77493

www.faithwest.org

academic standards and continues to uphold core values of: reverence for God, respect for ourselves, others and authority and responsibility for one’s action. The school has a very strong academic focus that reflects the interest, involvement, and profile of the community. “Our mission is Excellence Without Compromise, that enables our students to achieve God’s purpose in their lives,” says Principal Mary Strickland. “We take pride in the academic achievements of our students, the skills of our teachers, and the involvement of our parents.” FWA adopts a Biblical worldview of education, which includes Biblically-based curriculum and weekly chapel service. The faculty members are caring, committed Christians and the student body is interdenominational.

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

| CONTINUED PAGE 56 >

BRITISH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF HOUSTON YOU WANT THE BEST FOR YOUR CHILD. SO DO WE. The British International School of Houston provides children ages 2 to 18 with personalized learning that is based on each studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique capabilities and interests. Our globally-respected curriculum produces resilient, confident and lifelong learners.

LOCAL ROOTS WITH GLOBAL REACH While our school has strong roots in the Houston community, we welcome families from across the globe as well as across town. We respect and value the different cultures of our families and view our diversity as a celebrated strength. No matter where our students might come from, they all leave better prepared with a global passport to their future.

PERSONALIZED, INQUIRY-BASED LEARNING We not only value each childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s background, interests and skills, we actually use them as the foundation for learning. We encourage our students to pursue their own interests and actively seek the academic skills necessary to bring their passions to life. Skills

and knowledge obtained in this way become more meaningful and are better retained.

HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT Our state-of-the-art facility and specialized programming allow us to develop the whole person and not just the academic student. Our performance arts curriculum, designed in partnership with The Juilliard School, provides unparalleled opportunities to speak publicly, experience a variety of instruments as well as take part in the dramatic arts. Our extensive physical education curriculum and extra-curricular athletics program allow students to regularly engage in sports and activities on three athletic fields including a FIFA-regulation soccer field, an aquatic centre and two NCAA-regulation size gymnasiums.

SCHEDULE A TOUR TO EXPERIENCE PERSONALIZED LEARNING FIRST-HAND: CALL 713.290.9025 OR VISIT WWW.BISHOUSTON.ORG

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Photo Courtesy of School of the Woods

Photo Courtesy of Grace School

From academics to athletics, missions

35-acre campus in the heart of Sugar Land,

military, with most students attending

to music, chapel to clubs, students are

one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas.

their first-choice university. Alumni serve

encouraged to express their uniqueness.

As an interdenominational school, FBCA

in various career fields, and many obtain

A competitive athletic program is avail-

welcomes a diverse population of students

post-graduate degrees in law, medicine,

able for our junior high and high school

who attend more than 100 area churches.

engineering and more.

Students at FBCA receive an academ-

For more information about Fort Bend Chris-

ically challenging course of study with

tian Academy, contact the Admissions Office

curriculum designed to provide a superior

at admissions@fortbendchristian.org or call

spiritual and intellectual environment. Fifty

281-263-9105.

students, along with fine arts (such as band and theatre), agriculture sciences/FFA, and cheerleading. Our high school students compete through Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS).

different Honors and Advanced Placement

The teaching staff is fully degreed in academic disciplines from elementary through high school. The teaching faculty in the secondary department has thirty-five members with an average student-teacher ratio of 10 to 1. Pre-AP and Advanced Placement courses are offered in all major core subjects. The Academy is accredited by the International Christian Accrediting Association and by AdvanceED, organizations both approved and recognized by the state of Texas.

classes are offered at the upper school level,

Fusion Academy, Houston Galleria

and middle school students with acceler-

www.fusionhoustongalleria.com •

ated educational development may also

713-963-9096

participate in an honors curriculum. Spiritually, academically and professionally qualified, all teaching staff are certified educators, many possessing a master’s degree or higher.

Fusion Academy is a fully accredited private middle school and high school where all classes are one –to-one: one student and one teacher per classroom. This unique educational model was born over 28 years ago out

FBCA features small class sizes, uniforms, a

of frustration with the status quo and the

hot lunch program, before and after school

passionate belief in the power of positive

programs, enrichment classes, clubs and

relationships to unlock academic potential.

strong community service involvement.

Fusion’s school model isn’t solely about the

Fort Bend Christian Academy

Outside of the classroom, students hold

smallest class size possible; it’s about helping

www.fortbendchristian.org • 281-263-9105

multiple state championships in athletics

kids flourish not only academically, but

and fine arts.

socially and emotionally, too.

The school has produced a number of

Many of their students feel like they don’t

National Merit Scholars, and 100% of

“fit” at a traditional school. That sense of

graduates enroll in college or enlist in the

not

Fort Bend Christian Academy exists to glorify God through excellence in college-preparatory Christian education. FBCA is a pre-k through grade 12 school located on a

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

belonging

| CONTINUED PAGE 58 >

FORT BEND CHRISTIAN ACADEMY OFFERS BALANCE TO FAMILIES Relocating to a city as large as Houston can be overwhelming, but getting your family plugged into the r ight school com m un it y can ease the t rans ition and make a new place feel like home. Often, the r ight school choice is determined by the school’s ability to balance academics, extracur ricular opportunities and spiritual values. Fort Bend Ch r i stian Academy, a p r ivate school serving grades pre-k through 12, embodies that balance.

WE TRUST GOD Ch r istian val ues a re a d r iving fo rce i n p a re nt s’ d e c i s i o n to e n ro l l t h e i r children in FBCA. FBCA proclaims that the Bible is the inspired, inerrant Word of G o d. A l l s u b j e ct s a re p res e nte d from a biblical perspective, with the Scripture as the measuring rod of all t r uth. Students i n eve r y g rade level at te n d we e k l y ch a p e l a n d m i d d l e s c h o o l a n d u p p e r s c h o o l s t u d e nt s take theology courses as part of their graduation requirements.

WE PURSUE WISDOM A college-preparatory curriculum is the other primary reason parents decide FBCA is the right school for their family. Students at FBCA receive an academically challenging course of study with a curriculum designed to provide a superior spiritual and intellectual environment. Fifty different Honors and Advanced Placement classes are offered at the upper school level, and middle school students with accelerated educational development may also participate in an honors curriculum.

WE SHAPE SOCIETY F B CA fe at u res e n r i ch m e nt c l a s s es, competitive athletics, before and after school programs, nationally-recognized c l u b s a n d exce pt i o n a l co m m u n i t y service and philanthropic involvement. Students hold multiple state championships in athletics and fine arts. The school has produced a number of National Merit Scholars, and 100% of graduates enroll in college or enlist in the military, w i t h m o s t s t u d e nt s at te n d i n g t h e i r

first-choice university. Alumni serve in various career fields, and many obtain post-graduate degrees in law, medicine, engineering and more.

WE LEAD WITH LOVE Finally, the community aspect of FBCA truly makes it feel like home. Various events th roughout the yea r provide oppor tunities for the whole family to come together. There are multiple ways for parents to get involved such as Parent Teacher Fellowship, Men’s Bible Study and Moms in Prayer. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE BALANCED EDUCATION AT FORT BEND CHRISTIAN ACADEMY, VISIT WWW. FORTBENDCHRISTIAN.ORG

happens here Is giving back important to your family? At Fort Bend Christian Academy, students learn in a global environment, embrace diversity and develop a passion for philanthropy. Learn more about our unique opportunities to serve locally, throughout the U.S. and abroad. Schedule a visit today!

281-263-9105 | fortbendchristian.org/admissions 1250 Seventh Street, Sugar Land, TX 77478 College-Preparatory Christian Education for Grades PreK-12

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can make school an uninspiring place to be. Fusion serves kids who aren’t flourishing in a conventional environment, and offers them a community where they feel connected, supported, and understood. This creates a perfect solution for kids who have mild learning difference, ADHD, social anxiety or school avoidance; those who have a demanding extracurricular schedule; and those who are gifted and need more challenging material. Fusion Academy is so much more than a school. Along with being a full time, accredited academy, they also provide class for credit, hybrid programming, and tutoring/ mentoring. They work to find the right “Fusion Fit” for every family that walks through their door. They support students currently enrolled at Fusion Academy, and also support students attending local public and private schools over the summer and throughout the school year. Their commitment to customized education for every student is at the core of what they

Photo Courtesy of Houston Christian High School

do at Fusion. They offer rolling admissions to get students back in school quickly; they have extended hours to meet student scheduling needs; and they are year round, which means they can get a student back on track for the upcoming school year or fulfill a course requirement in one summer.

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

Grace School www.graceschool.org • 713-782-4421 The story of Grace is the story of a community committed to providing a rigorous educational program that embraces the teachings of Jesus Christ in order to inspire

compassionate, thoughtful students eager to engage in the world around them.

are well prepared and highly recruited by

Founded in 1975, Grace School offers a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. A highly accredited, independent, Christian school, Grace School serves students and their families from twenty months through eighth grade. Located on an enchanting 13-acre campus in Houston, Texas; the school provides a premier academic program to a diverse, co-ed student population.

At the heart of our welcoming and collab-

Houston’s top tiered high schools.

orative environment, you will find that school-initiated family and community relationships are a top priority. Grace School invites you to join the exceptional leadership, extraordinary faculty, talented students, and generous families that star in their story. Schedule a tour by visiting their website www.graceschool.org.

(ISAS), and is a member of the Southwest Preparatory Conference (SPC). One of the most distinct and intentional components of the HC experience is their leadership development program. Through classroom teaching, hands-on opportunities, and worldwide travel, students have the chance to explore ideas and roles beyond the classroom walls. HC is committed to celebrating diversity and strengthening the student’s community, heritage, vision of honor, and leadership.

Houston Christian High School Grace School faculty and staff are certified, experienced, committed and intentional. Teachers demonstrate a deep understanding of the developmental level of their students and implore a vast variety of instructional strategies tailored to best meet the individual needs of our students. Our teachers, embodying Christian values, honor each child as an individual as they emphasize the importance of growth in both academics and character. Upon completion of our curricular program, students

www.houstonchristian.org • 713-580-6020 Houston Christian High School is a four-year,

interdenominational

college

preparatory high school that provides rigorous academic programs designed to prepare every student for collegiate study and beyond. Founded in 1997, HC is a place where students can discover their life-call-

Another hallmark of HC is the caring teachers, mentors, and role models who engage students in service and leadership opportunities through student government, athletics, and fine arts. The combination of HC’s distinctive programs, spiritual life focus, and award-winning arts and athletics makes every student’s experience encompassing, yet also unique.

ings while excelling academically. Houston Christian is accredited by The Indepen-

The majority of HC’s 500 students come

dent Schools Association of the Southwest

from private schools throughout Houston,

Teaching What Matters 2700 W Sam Houston Pkwy N | Houston, Texas 77043 | 713-580-6000 | www.houstonchristian.org HCHS_NW-RelocationAd-HalfPage_April17.indd 1

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Spring Branch, Cypress-Fairbanks, and Katy communities, and there is also a strong public school representation. HC graduates attend an ever-expanding list of top colleges and universities in Texas and throughout the United States. Situated on a beautifully appointed 45-acre, state-of-the-art, collegiate-style campus, HC is conveniently located at the intersection of

“

Top-notch education has long been a major ingredient in West Houston’s winning recipe for quality of life, and one of the key reasons the area’s population continues to increase..

W. Sam Houston Pkwy N and Kempwood Drive. Demonstrating a continuing commitment to enhancing educational excellence and whole-child development, Houston Christian recently completed the 7,400 sq. ft. Brown Family Dance Studio as well as the new, two-story, 7,000 sq. ft. Harrell Family Strength & Conditioning Center. Houston Christian is a place where students can do more, be more, and succeed more. It is a place where students can play sports and participate in fine arts, where they can develop leadership skills and explore the world through life-changing travel. Most

importantly, HC is a place where students will have the opportunity to grow spiritually in ways they could never imagine. For more information about the school and the admissions process, please call 713-580-6020 or visitwww.houstonchristian.org. School of the Woods – Montessori www.schoolofthewoods.org • 713-686-8811 From age 2½ through college prep high school, School of the Woods offers a total continuum of interactive Montessori education in a unique learning environment,

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

”

through curriculum personalized by Montessori-credentialed teachers according to each student’s needs, interests and abilities. Now in its sixth decade (founded in 1962), School of the Woods is Houston’s oldest continuously operating Montessori school and is non-profit, independent and non-sectarian. It is a full member school of the American Montessori Society and accredited by AdvancED (formerly SACS). Educational programs encompass: Woods Lower School for Early

Childhood-Kindergarten, Elementary (Grades 1-3), and Upper Elementary (Grades 4-6); Woods Middle School (Grades 7-8); and Woods High School (Grades 9-12). Auxiliary programs include Dance, Gymnastics, Before/After School Care, Tutorials, Instrumental Music, Sports, Summer School and Summer Performance Arts. All children are eligible for enrollment regardless of race, color, creed, or national or ethnic origin. St. Jerome Catholic School www.stjeromecs.org â&#x20AC;˘ 713-468-7946 St. Jerome Catholic School offers a rigorous, accredited, academic program in an environment which is learner focused. Highly qualified, caring teachers and staff help the children realize their God-given gifts. Students have the opportunity to participate in City-wide competitions (Science Fair, Spelling Bee).

Photo Courtesy of Fort Bend Christian Academy

sports (soccer, volleyball, basketball, track), Student Council, drama, scouts, prep bowl, altar servers, lectors, cantors, choir, visual

Rounding out the program at St. Jerome are a variety of extracurricular activities including

arts, yearbook, and instrumental class. Students attend Mass every week.

St. Jerome School has been educating students in a Christ-centered environment for over 50 years. You are invited to visit St. Jerome and experience the vibrant, diverse community that is Family.

Embracing & Extending The mission of Christ & the Catholic Church through: ACADEMICS

COMMUNITY

& SERVICE

St. Jerome Catholic School works to inspire our students, families, and staďŹ&#x20AC; to be informed and ethical leaders who possess and share a lasting love of learning and a lifelong commitment to Catholic values and service.

8825 Kempwood Drive Houston, TX 77080

713-468-7946

Visit us at:

www.stjeromecs.org

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E D U C AT I O N I N H O U S T O N

Photo Courtesy of Grace School

Photo Courtesy of Fort Bend Christian Academy

St. Jerome is conveniently located in Spring Branch at 8825 Kempwood Dr. between Hollister and Blalock. The school is easily accessible from I-10, US 290, and Beltway 8. Come Pray, Learn, and Grow!

the hearts and minds of students to serve God and others. St. John XXIII is a co-educational Catholic high school located near I-10 and Franz Road. The beautiful 35-acre campus features two athletic gyms, a football field, a softball field, and a baseball field.

St. John XXIII College Preparatory

In addition, there is an intimate chapel, art

Sj23.org • 281.693.1000

studios and band/choir rooms, a black box

Since 2004, St. John XXIII College Preparatory has held fast to their mission: To prepare

science labs and classrooms.

Visit St. John XXIII College Preparatory today – either online or in person.

St. John XXIII College Preparatory develops

Yorkshire Academy

theater, learning center, and well-equipped

and inspires students in mind, body, and spirit.

www.yorkshireacademy.com • 281-531-6088

They are committed to the education of young

Yorkshire Academy, a private school located

men and women as they prepare them for life’s challenges, to live lives of integrity, and to understand the teachings of the Catholic Church. They believe that the formation of their students takes place not only in the classroom, but also through participation in

The Little School That’s Making a Big Impact. 300 STUDENTS – 18 MONTHS TO 5TH GRADE

extracurricular and co-curricular activities. With 20 clubs, five national honor societies, three student organizations, four

in the Memorial area, was established in 1984 with its primary goal being to create an environment in which children can develop to their fullest potential at their own individual rate. Students range in age from 18 months to Grade 5. Yorkshire strives to develop the whole person, guiding each child with experiences to enhance his or her own self image, whether it be excel-

performing arts, and 20 athletic opportuni-

ling within dynamic classroom academics,

ties, students have the opportunity to join

singing and dancing in amazing musical

many clubs and participate in a variety

productions, earning a 1st place academic

of activities to enhance their high school

competition ribbon in math, or mastering

experience. They also offer nearly two

the latest technology in the computer lab.

dozen 18 AP, Pre-AP, and honors courses to challenge and inspire.

Yorkshire Academy offers a unique oppor-

kindness, confidence and the kind of progressive learning

Common among European and East Coast

outstanding staff who truly cares about

that ignites the potential in our students to accomplish

schools, the house system at St. John XXIII

each child. A parent once said, “You

is the first of its kind at any Catholic high

know, you guys should call Yorkshire

school in Texas. The house system promotes

Academy,

school spirit, fellowship, spirituality, and

The school is an impressive mix of strong

Kids from across Houston and around the world come to Yorkshire Academy to excel, explore, collaborate, question and solve. Ours is a campus that’s alive with wonder, joy,

anything. Even change the world. To find out more and arrange a tour, visit yorkshireacademy.com. 14120 Memorial Drive | Houston, Texas 77079 | 281.531.6088

academic achievement. Each House is awarded points throughout the year. At the end of each year, a single house is awarded the Roncalli Cup in honor of their patron, Pope St. John XXIII. The five houses are Aquinas House, Borromeo House, Lisieux House, Loreto House, and Neri House.

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

tunity for students to benefit from an

‘The

Self-Esteem

School.’”

academics,

unbelievable

music,

art,

computer, Spanish, all being taught in a loving, supportive atmosphere. Yorkshire’s extensive afterschool enrichment program offers classes as diverse as engineering, yoga, chess, piano, tae kwon do and dozens more. Its summer program consists of academics, over 50 enrichment camps, themebased camps for little ones, and full time care. These programs are open to the community, and attract families from all over the Houston area. Yorkshire Academy is accredited by the T.A.A.P.S. and Texas Association of Gifted and Talented. Visit www.yorkshireacademy. com for more information or call 281-5316088 to schedule a personal tour.

HIGHER EDUCATION IN CENTRAL HOUSTON Higher education is a strength for Central Houston, with choices that are many and diverse. With more than 40,000 students, the University of Houston is

the third-largest university in Texas and has made great academic strides in recent decades. UH has achieved Tier One research university status from the Carnegie Foundation, putting it in the same league as the University of Texas and Texas A&M University. UH has more than 300 degree programs and many, including creative writing, architecture and law, are considered among the nation’s best.

higher learning include Texas Southern University, Houston Baptist University and Houston Community College System. In 2015, the University of Texas announced that it had purchased more than 300 acres for a new Houston campus located 3.5 miles from the Texas Medical Center. In a statement, the UT System Board of Regents said, “We will broaden our footprint in the city of Houston to take advantage of its size, strength of insti-

Rice University, situated on a beautiful oak-lined campus near the Texas Medical Center and Hermann Park, is consistently ranked among the top 20 universities in the U.S. and among the top 100 in the world. Known for its small student-to-faculty ratio and its high level of research, Rice also offers excellent public arts and continuing education programs. The Texas Medical Center is home to a number of colleges and universities, including Baylor College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center and Texas Woman’s University. Other Houston institutions of

tutions, and talent of the professionals in science, business, healthcare and the arts.”

HIGHER EDUCATION IN WEST HOUSTON A variety of well-regarded institutions offer higher education in West Houston, and residents also have easy access to top-rated colleges and universities throughout the Houston region. The University of Houston System at Cinco Ranch offers courses leading to

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E D U C AT I O N I N H O U S T O N

more than 30 bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and UH has announced plans to issue $60 million in bonds to fund a new, expanded campus in Katy that will focus on the energy industry while also offering a broad range of programs. West Houston is also served by the Houston Community College System and Lone Star College, two of the largest and most comprehensive community colleges in the nation. New Horizons - Your Partner in Training 713-552-1414 • www.nhhouston.com For more than three decades, New Horizons Computer Learning Centers has been a leader in IT training. With over 100 locations worldwide, they have grown to become the largest independent training company in the industry. Their career and corporate training solutions help turn ambitious personal and business goals into results. They use varying training methods for virtually every schedule and learning style, along with vendor-approved learning tools and expert instruction. They have trained more than 30 million people to make the most of technology, and they feel like they are just getting started. Vendor-Authorized - New Horizons offers an extensive selection of vendor-authorized training and certifications for top technology providers, such as Microsoft, Cisco, CompTIA and VMWare. Being an authorized partner ensures that the students have the highest quality training materials and train on the latest products and technologies available. Courses provided fall into categories like desktop applications, technical training and professional development. Flexible Training Approached Based on Learner Needs – They understand that not everyone’s learning needs or preferred methods are the same. Therefore, their flexible training approach gives the ability to customize dedicated classes to satisfy specific needs. Learning methods include Online ANYTIME, on-site training, private classes and Online LIVE. Online Live removes geographical boundaries from learning by bringing students

and instructors together synchronously in a virtual real-time classroom environment. This program provides students all of the benefits of being in a dynamic interactive classroom – enabling students to study from work, home or a New Horizons center. New Horizons offers real-time, cloud-based lab solutions as well, allowing students to access their labs anytime and anywhere. The state-of-the-art, fully-configured live lab environment provides students hands-on access to the systems and applications taught in the classrooms, empowering them to learn on their own schedules. A Leader in the Industry - New Horizons is ranked in the top 5% in the industry for training quality and customer satisfaction as reported by an independent third-party learning and quality assurance company, Knowledge Advisors. Plus, research shows that New Horizons training yields a 4:1 benefit-to-cost ratio, based on manager surveys regarding the improved performance and productivity of their employees immediately following New Horizons training. University of Houston-Victoria www.uhv.edu/katy • 281-396-3700 West Houston students achieve excellence at UHV Katy. The University of Houston-Victoria at Katy offers a wide selection of academic programs and the flexibility

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

desired by students ready to finish a bachelor’s degree or pursue a master’s degree in the classroom or online. Classes are affordable, and students don’t have to leave West Houston – or even their own home. It’s no wonder readers of the Katy Times have voted UHV as the Best College in Katy four years in a row. “UHV is proud to offer an excellent higher education to students in Greater Houston and the Crossroads,” UHV President Bob Glenn said. “No matter what phase of life our students are in – whether they are freshmen straight out of high school, community college transfer students, single parents or working professionals – UHV is ready to help them make their mark. That’s why we offer excellent courses in Katy, Victoria and online to meet the needs of all our students.” UHV Katy, 2002 W. Grand Parkway N., Building 2, is conveniently located off Grand Parkway and Franz Road, just north of Interstate 10. The third floor features classrooms, faculty offices, study areas and a Multi-Purpose Room to serve the Katy community. This fall, UHV Katy will move to a new instructional site at 22400 Grand Circle Blvd. near I-10 and the Grand Parkway. For students looking for a more traditional college experience, UHV’s main campus in Victoria offers bachelor’s

degrees

transfer

UHV has agreements with many Houston

MBA for less than $17,500. UHV’s business

residence

area community colleges, allowing for a

programs are accredited by AACSB Inter-

halls and a wide assortment of student

seamless transfer to UHV Katy. Students

national – The Association to Advance

activities. The new UHV University

can choose to pursue degrees in a variety

Collegiate Schools of Business. Less than

Commons student center and library will

of fields through UHV’s three academic

5 percent of business schools worldwide

open by the start of the fall semester.

schools:

achieve this distinction.

students,

for

freshmen

master’s

and

degrees,

Arts

Sciences,

Business

Administration, and Education, Health Regardless of where or how students

Professions & Human Development.

attend UHV, the qualified faculty and small class sizes will ensure they receive

In the School of Arts & Sciences, trans-

the personal attention and encouragement

ferring students have a choice of many

needed to succeed.

undergraduate majors, including mathematics, digital gaming and simulation,

Students studying in the School of Education, Health Professions & Human Development can pursue degrees in a number of areas, including teaching, administration and supervision, adult and higher education, special education with an emphasis in applied behavior analysis, curric-

“UHV was a wonderful experience and an

and psychology. Graduate programs are

excellent place to learn,” said Mary Naser,

available in several growing fields, such

a Houston resident who graduated in May

as master’s degrees in computer science

with her bachelor’s degree in early child-

or forensic psychology, or a Specialist in

hood to sixth-grade education and plans

school psychology degree.

ical mental health counseling.

professors were readily available when I

The School of Business Administration

Learn more about the available degree

had questions and were happy to help make

offers Bachelor and Master of Business

programs and certifications offered at

sure everyone understood the material. They

Administration programs with concen-

UHV Katy by contacting 281-396-3700 or

were outstanding examples for me as I begin

trations that include accounting, finance,

katyrecruitment@uhv.edu. More informa-

my teaching career. I want to have that same

human resources management, manage-

tion about UHV’s degrees can be found at

attitude when I teach my students.”

ment and marketing. Students can earn an

www.uhv.edu/majors-degrees. 

ulum and instruction, as well as an educational diagnostician certification. UHV also offers master’s degrees in school counseling and clin-

to teach in the Houston area. “All of my

VICTORIA • KATY • ONLINE

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in this section senior housing options continuing care retirement communities assisted living communities

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ISSUE 1

ACTIVE ADULTS

+ senior living The times of aging in America, they are a-changing – and many senior Houston residents couldn’t be happier about it. Long gone are the days of mandatory retirement at age 65, and with it, the idea that one’s golden years were to be spent simply sitting quietly on the front porch in a rocking chair as they watch life go by.

More and more seniors don’t see them-

to pasture to watch the rest of the world go

upscale retirement communities that offer an

selves as seniors (unless they get a discount

by. Today’s seniors now have many options,

array of housing, activity, exercise and social

if they do). Increasingly, the years after age

dreams and plans, and very often, the

options, to full-care facilities that care for

65 are more numerous and more active.

energy to pursue them. Of course, people

people with mental and physical disabilities,

According to the U.S. Department of Health

with more leisure time can perfect their golf

and every-thing in between, there is a senior

and Human Services, Americans’ life expec-

swing, or carefully tend their prized azaleas,

living solution to fit every desire and need.

tancy in 2000 was 76.8 years; in 2016, it was

but these days, they’re also choosing to go

78.8. One of the reasons is that Americans

back to school, learn a new language, run

are healthier: today’s seniors visit the doctor

marathons, volunteer, or take up a new

and emergency room less, spend fewer days

hobby. More people are opting to burn out

in hospital and exercise more.

rather than rust out.

Turning 65 no longer means receiving a

And the options for living and playing are

some time into the stock-taking process

watch, a party and hearty congratulations

also evolving to meet the changing demands

by taking a personal inventory of living

for years spent at a job, only to be put out

of this growing group of people. From

expenses, health, interests and expectations.

TAKING STOCK In order to narrow your options in what could be an overwhelming list of choices and to help you choose the best one, put

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A C T I V E A D U LT S & S E N I O R L I V I N G

Budget Inventory: what does it cost to live

cash. Guaranteed by the U.S. Department

every month? What are you spending on

housing or rental; how much does it cost

HUD offers this federally insured private

to heat it, cool it, pay taxes or a mortgage

loan which can give you greater financial

on it? What other expenses do you have?

security to supplement social security, meet

Food, entertainment, transportation? What

unexpected medical expenses, make home

medical expenses do you currently have,

improvements and more. And, unlike a

or do you anticipate? Be as thorough and

traditional home equity loan or second

honest in your assessment as you can, so

mortgage, you usually do not have to repay

that you can make an informed decision.

(Visit AARP’s website and use their Reverse

the loan until you no longer use the home

Mortgage Calculator: www.aarp.com).

Lifestyle inventory: How do you want to live? Need more time for golf ? You might want to live on a course. Want to do some volunteering? You may decide to move closer to the city, school or community center. Want to make new friends? Many senior’s communities are set up to allow you

Housing and Urban Development,

away. The money from a reverse loan may be paid out in a variety of ways: a lump sum, a regular monthly cash advance, as a credit line account, or any combination of the above. To qualify, you must be at least 62, and own the home outright or carry a mortgage small enough to be paid off by the

are in your analysis, the more prepared you

proceeds; there are no income or credit qual-

will be to make the right decisions.

ifications or monthly payments, but you are

STAY PUT You can retire in your own home by withdrawing some of the equity you’ve built up with a reverse mortgage, which is a special type of home loan that lets you convert a portion of the equity in your home into

the purchase of a new home that could be safely invested? • What are the options for downsizing into a less expensive home, renting an apartment, or moving into an assisted living or alternative senior housing situation?

as your principal residence, sell it, or pass

to do just that. Again, the more careful you

SHOULD YOU STAY OR SHOULD YOU GO?

• Would there be any money left over from

PACK IT UP But maybe, it’s time for a move. Perhaps the 30-year family home is too big and you’re rattling around it like a marble in a shoe box, or you’re tired of the outdoor upkeep, or you want to be closer to the place or activities that you now have time for. Before you choose your new home, once again,

responsible to pay the annual taxes, property

take stock. Be realistic about your situation,

insurance and maintenance of the home.

your expectations, your finances and your health. It’s as important to consider access

The best way to determine if a reverse mort-

to medical doctors and facilities as it is to

gage is the best fit for your retirement plan is

think about fun and leisure pursuits. Make

to honestly assess the following: • How much would the home sell for on today’s market? • What would the cost be to buy, or rent, and maintain a new home?

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

sure the new community is one that you will enjoy, that it has convenient amenities and access to services, and that a new house will be a good investment. If you’re still active, you might want to be among folk just like

you. Think carefully before making decisions that will determine your happiness in the years to come.

ACTIVE SENIOR HOUSING COMMUNITIES If you’re a healthy, independent senior, you may find that you simply want to live in a community where you can enjoy the company of others and your own personal interests. Moving to an active independent living retirement community might be the

“

Seniors in Houston find that they have a wide variety of housing options that can accommodate their budget, while enjoying their lifestyle in a community that encourages the development and pursuit of their personal interests.

”

best fit for your budget and lifestyle, where options include renting an apartment or purchasing a property.

What security measures are in place for

A CCRC (also called Life-Care Facilities or

residents? For ultimate peace of mind, you Many active senior communities have infor-

Communities) generally offers a contract

might opt to rent a home under a short-term

mation packets and offer tours. A personal

that covers a continuum of care, including

agreement at first to make sure the commu-

visit will give valuable, firsthand information

access to housing, services, and health care

nity provides for your needs and lives up to

for more than one year, or the balance of

and an opportunity to meet current residents

your expectations.

one’s life. It is a wise idea to move into a

who can share their own experience and insider’s view. Ask about health and fitness

CCRC sooner rather than later, as most

programs, organized activities, sporting

CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES

options, and social opportunities. Other

A Continuing Care Retirement Community

day-to-day living arrangements should also

(CCRC) offers care in a residential facility

There is a range of contract options offered

be considered, such as shopping centers and

for seniors, with a full menu of services and

by CCRCs. An extensive-care contract is the

grocery stores within easy walking distance,

living situations. Residents may go from

most expensive, but carries the least risk,

and

the

availability

require that new residents live independently when they first move in.

transportation

independent living, to assisted living and

providing unlimited long-term nursing care

services. Where is the community located

nursing home care, depending on their indi-

at little or no additional cost for as long

in proximity to major health care providers?

vidual, changing needs and abilities.

as nursing-home services are required. A

SENIOR HOUSING OPTIONS “The time to begin thinking about a retirement community isn’t when you have to have it,” advises Terry Martinez with Parmer Woods Retirement & Assisted Living. “Think about it when you don’t need it. There are a wide variety of alternatives available for every level of activity, health and need. Today’s Baby Boomers who are in or approaching their retirement years are taking advantage of active retirement communities where residents are vigorous and involved. Or, they are finding senior-care housing communities that em-ploy medically trained staff, provide housekeeping and meal preparation services, as well as transportation for shopping, medical visits, and social outing. Or, they are seeking a more physically and medically sup-portive environment. Whatever choice is best for you, it’s out there, but should be considered without stress.

And the prices vary. “When you’re trying to stay within a particular price range, you want to match your living requirements with services offered,” says Martinez. “If you are very independent and don’t need assistance – just want a meal plan, for example – then the associated costs are much less than for someone who requires more care.” Also, Medicare generally does not pay for long-term care, only for services deemed medically necessary that are provided by a skilled facility or home health care center. Medicaid will pay for certain health services and nursing home care for older people with low incomes and limited assets. The place you choose should facilitate life at a level of independence that is comfortable for you or for your loved one.

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modified-care contract comes with medium financial risk, and provides long-term health or nursing services for a specified period, after which, the senior or guardian is responsible for additional costs. A fee-for-service contract offers an a-la-carte approach, requiring that residents pay separately for all health and medical services provided by the facility, as well as long-term care. Most CCRCs expect an entrance fee, plus monthly fees thereafter. Some require an equity agreement where seniors purchase a condominium or co-op apartment on the property instead of paying an entrance fee. Less commonly found are CCRC contracts where residents pay monthly fees only.

• Are there fitness facilities onsite? • Is the staff friendly and knowledgeable? • What healthcare and personal care services are available? • What preparations have been made for handling medical and evacuation emergency situations? • Is there easy access to offsite activities such as shopping and is transportation provided? CCRCs can be anything from high-rise apartments, to cottages, townhouses or single-family homes, and are an excellent option for those who are independent and in good health, but might need some assistance with daily living needs or require skilled nursing care.

Before signing a contract with a CCRC, conduct a thorough review of the facility’s services, operations and finances, and determine if it is appropriate to your needs, lifestyle and expectations. It’s also a good idea to ask a family attorney or accountant to review the contract. If the contract is found agreeable, ask to spend at least one night and two days at the facility, to test drive the community and make sure it is a good fit. Some points to consider include: • Are pets allowed in your residence? • What social, recreational and cultural activities are offered? • Is food prepared onsite? If so, how is it?

ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES An Assisted Living Community (ALC) bridges the gap for those who need assistance with daily activities a nursing home might offer, but wish to live independently. Residents in an ALC are unable to live completely by themselves, but don’t need constant supervision. An ALC offers its residents assistance with eating, bathing, dressing, laundry, housekeeping, and keeping track of medications. They often have centers for medical care, but typically do not offer the extensive medical services provided by a nursing home. An ALC is not a substitute for

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

a nursing home, but rather is a stepping stone between complete independence and services provided by a nursing home. Often, an ALC will create an individualized service plan for seniors upon admission, detailing personal services that will be provided. This plan is then periodically reviewed and updated to ensure changing needs are met. Housing in an ALC may be studios or one-bedroom apartments with small kitchen facilities. Typically, ALC housing units have group dining facilities and common areas where residents gather to enjoy social and recreational activities. As with other options, a visit to the center is a must. Pay attention to first impressions: • • • •

Are the grounds well maintained? Is the staff friendly? Are the residents properly dressed? What activities are available?

ALCs that competently provide required services without forgetting about little details will give the same care and attention to residents.

NURSING CARE FACILITIES A Nursing Care Facility (NCF) is a state licensed, private-care facility that provides 24-hour skilled hospital care for residents who do not require hospitalization but cannot stay at home.

It pays to shop around when selecting an

over another, they can answer the following

NCF. Consult with a trusted doctor or health

recommended questions about any facility:

care practitioner for recommendations of nearby facilities. Plan on visiting at least four or five area facilities, and make an appointment with the administrator or director of nursing. Check to make sure that information provided is consistent with information gathered during the facility tour. The home should have clean floors and smell fresh. Ask to see the compliance survey report prepared by the State of Texas. It will list deficiencies found in resident care during routine inspections, and the facility’s effort to correct them. Under Texas law, nursing homes must make this and other survey compliance reports available upon request, as well as a well-lit place for review. Another option available is to contact the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) at 800-458-9858 or www.dads. state.tx.us. While state law prohibits agency employees from recommending one facility

• Have there been any proposed license terminations in the past two years?

ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIA CARE FACILITIES Seniors

diagnosed

with

Alzheimer’s

disease or another form of dementia need specialized care. While some Assisted

• How many complaints have been filed in the past year?

Living Communities offer services and

• How many complaints in the past year have been found to be valid?

onset symptoms, because of the progres-

• How many deficiencies have been cited in the past two years?

necessary to transfer the resident to

• How many “quality of care” violations have been cited in the past two years?

separate facilities for residents with early sive nature of the disease, it may become another facility that can give the right level of service. Facilities specializing in the care of Alzhei-

• When did DADS last visit the facility, and what was the purpose of the visit?

mer’s and dementia patients should provide

• Has the owner of this facility had other facilities recommended for license termination?

resident’s medical needs, but also the needs

The answers to these questions, combined with observations and impressions made during facility tours and staff interviews will allow you to select the right nursing care facility.

alized treatment reviews, all set within a

a treatment plan that considers not only the of the entire family with social services, professional consultations and individucalm, soothing environment that is sensitive to the needs of the patient. Please visit www.agingcare.com for additional information on care for the elderly. 

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

in this section moving companies forwarding mail utilities public transportation international relocation

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ISSUE 1

RELOCATION INFORMATION

No one likes to move and it’s never without its headaches and hassles, but the more you understand the process, and your new environment, the easier the move will be and the faster you can start enjoying your new home. With its energetic pulse and cosmopolitan

At the other extreme, the global economy of

the costs of packing materials in their bid

yet neighborly personality, Houston awaits

Houston draws newcomers from all over the

while others break out supplies separately.

your arrival. But first, check out these basics

world, and there are a few important consid-

Packing services, fuel charges, wait time and

provided to help make your move smooth

erations to keep in mind when moving from

temporary storage costs may vary consider-

and easy. Then you’ll be ready to enjoy every-

overseas. If your move is work-related, find out

ably so be sure to ask about all charges.

thing this dynamic region has to offer.

how much of the expense will be covered. As a general rule, many experts recommend scaling

Moving companies offer three types of esti-

MOVING COMPANIES

the move down to essential items and those

mates: the binding estimate, non-binding

with emotional value. Find out about import

estimate and not-to-exceed binding estimate.

If you are moving from out of state, it may be necessary to hire a moving company. The best time to move is the middle of the month rather than the end or during summer vacation, when moving companies are usually busiest. If the move is less than 250 miles away, and you don’t have much stuff, consider making the move yourself. Compare the

fees and duty costs, especially for things you may have purchased abroad. Also consider

The binding estimate lists all items to be

the size of your new space: will it be larger

shipped and the required services on the esti-

or smaller than the home you’re leaving? If

mate form, and the price quoted is the price

you’re a U.S. citizen who is moving back from

paid. Every charge is itemized, so that if an

overseas, then you might have many items in

item is added or deleted, it is easy to re-calcu-

U.S. storage, so you’ll need to plan the logistics

late the cost. The moving company must also

of getting these to your new home as well.

specify the length of time the price quote is in effect, which is usually 60 days. This type of

relative costs of moving yourself versus

TYPES OF MOVING ESTIMATES

using the services of a moving company,

Most companies give free estimates based

and be sure to take into consideration your

on distance and the weight of household

The non-binding estimate, which is the only

back, time and effort.

contents. Some moving companies include

type of estimate offered in some intrastate

estimate does not require additional payment over the amount of the estimate.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N

situations, is not guaranteed. The real cost of services is determined after the truck is loaded and weighed, and charges above the estimate can run more than 20 percent. Be sure to attend the truck weigh-ins both before and after furniture and household items are loaded to accurately calculate the total weight. The estimated amount of your move should be entered on each form that is prepared by the mover, including orders for special services and bills of lading. If the amounts are not included, do not sign or accept the document. The third type of estimate, called the not-to-exceed estimate, is usually the best. The mover gives a binding estimate, then weighs the vehicle and reduces the price if the weight is less than anticipated. Ask all movers if they offer this type of service. Tax deductions may apply to your move so

Some companies specialize in renting furni-

MORE CONSIDERATIONS

keep appropriate records. Contact the I.R.S.

ture to newcomers and offer packages by

Be aware that many moving companies fall

at 800-829-1040 or www.irs.gov, or ask your

the household, the room or the piece. They

behind schedule, so consider hiring a moving

tax preparer or attorney.

also offer different styles, along with acces-

company that will guarantee a pickup and

sories such as artwork, lighting, rugs and

delivery date. Make sure those dates are

Tips for Hiring a Moving Company

indoor plants. Flexible lease terms, quick

in the contract. Pick-up and delivery dates

• Select a moving company carefully by

delivery and professional setup and removal

should not be open-ended.

are some of the services offered by rental

confirming their license at

companies. If you decide you love a partic-

www.protectyourmove.gov Although moving companies provide liability insurance on household belongings by the pound, it is wise to purchase extra insurance that provides additional coverage, especially for those items that are more valuable.

ular item, purchase is usually available.

• The Southwest Association is another resource for information about moving

FORWARDING MAIL

companies and they can be reached at

To submit your change of address, go to www.

www.southwestmovers.org or : 800-759-2305

usps.com. The USPS can hold your mail, forward or accommodate a change of address.

• Contact the Better Business Bureau for Before the movers arrive, make prepara-

any complaints that might be on file at

tions. Take an inventory of your belongings

www.houston.bbb.org or 713-868-9500.

LEGAL RECORDS

and note their condition. If the moving company performs their own inventory,

Legal Records maintained by Harris County

• The Interstate Commerce Commission

check it carefully against your own before

offers a free brochure, “Your Rights and

signing anything. Should any of your

Responsibilities When You Move.” ICC

belongings arrive with scratches, dents or

Office of Compliance and Consumer

other damages, photographs will help verify

Assistance, Washington, D.C., 20423.

a claim so consider taking pictures of valuable items or making a video inventory before the movers arrive.

You can also find the brochure on many websites by searching for its title.

and Fort Bend County include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, automobile licenses, fees and inspections, divorce proceedings, DBAs, taxes, and more. Contact the county of residence for specific services offered. The Harris County Civil Court House 20l Caroline, Houston, TX, 77002

new home on the date the moving company

FURNITURE AND APPLIANCE RENTAL

is scheduled to deliver. If no one is home to

In some cases, it may be necessary to rent furni-

The Fort Bend County Court House

receive the delivery, your belongings will go

ture or appliances while waiting for your old

1422 Eugene Heimann Circle,

into storage, and the moving company may

ones to be delivered, or while shopping for new

Richmond, TX, 77469

require payment in cash before unloading.

items that will fit your new space perfectly.

281-342-3411, www.fortbendcountytx.gov

It is important to be sure you will be at your

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

713-755-6411, www.co.harris.tx.us

UTILITIES ELECTRICITY Retail Electric Providers compete to sell electricity, allowing consumers to compare plans, pricing and features. The Public Utility Commission recommends the three “C’s” before selecting a provider: contact, compare, and choose. Allow several days for the order to process. If establishing service for a new home or building, a permit or inspection may be required. Select electricity, natural gas, local phone and long distance, cable or satellite television, and high-speed internet services at www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com.

GAS CENTERPOINT ENERGY CenterPoint Energy is the major provider for natural gas in the greater West Houston Area. As the regulated utility, CenterPoint Energy owns and maintains the electric delivery system and sells natural gas. Visit www.CenterPointEnergy.com to learn more. ENERGY STAR certified homes use less energy than homes built to the Texas residential building code, are third-party tested, and provide homeowners with a better lifestyle for less money. By purchasing an ENERGY STAR certified home, you can have all the features you desire in your new home, plus better performance and lower utility bills-all while helping prevent greenhouse gas emissions. Many of the leading builders in the Houston area build ENERGY STAR certified homes: Ashton Woods Homes, Beazer Homes, Castlerock Communities, David Weekley Homes,

Dunhill

Builders,

First

Texas

Homes, Greeneco Builders, Infinity Classic Homes, KB Home, Kickerillo Homes, Lennar Homes, Meritage Homes, Riverway Builders, Ryland Homes. Learn more about buying an ENERGY STAR home at houstonenergystarhomes.com. CenterPoint Energy’s ENERGY STAR for New Homes Program, is just one of the utilities programs that supports energy-efficiency

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N

BEING GREEN CURBSIDE RECYCLING

The Harris County Motorist Assistance

for more information on CenterPoint Energy’s energy efficiency programs.

Most common acceptable waste includes

METRO, helps motorists experiencing car

efforts. Visit www.centerpointefficiency.com

Program (MAP), sponsored in part by

paper, telephone books, cans, plastics

trouble on Houston area freeways. The

WATER AND SEWER

1 and 2, and used motor oil. Rinse and

specially marked MAP vehicles are equipped

Water, sewage and drainage services are

drain containers, remove lids, caps, plastic

to handle minor automotive emergencies.

typically provided by the public works

bags and package materials, and place the

department in each city, or by a municipal

recycle container on the curb by 7:00 a.m.

utility district (MUD). There are a number

Used oil should be in the original container

of these districts throughout Houston, Katy,

or in a screw top non-detergent container.

High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes for

local city or homeowner’s association for

BAG-IT AND RECYCLE-IT

peak travel periods. To share a ride, contact

detailed information.

Many local communities have Bag-It programs

Fulsher and services vary. Contact your

requiring yard trimmings to be placed in sepa-

Houston’s major highways – including the Katy Freeway and U.S. 290 West – have vehicles with two or more passengers during the METRO Carpool Matching Service at 713-635-4000.

TELEPHONE, CABLE, AND INTERNET SERVICE

rate bags from trash and garbage. Place the

The Greater Houston area has four area

be collected. Limit contents to grass, leaves

codes: 713, 281, 832, and the newest,

and small twigs; the bag cannot weigh more

346. When placing calls, 10-digit dialing

than 50 pounds and should be less than 4-ft. in

METRO

is required. The many telephone service

length and 18 inches in diameter. Do not put

mobility impaired and disabled passengers. Call

providers to choose from also offer satellite

anything into storm drains.

713-658-0180 or go to www.ridemetro.org.

bundled services, special promotional rates

TRASH PICKUP

and discounts for newcomers.

OWNING A VEHICLE

The City of Houston and many other munic-

New residents must obtain a Texas driv-

ipalities, such as The Memorial Villages and

er’s license within 30 days of establishing

the cities of Katy and Fulshear, provide

residency. Texas residents moving to a new

trash pick-up. Call the solid waste depart-

address within the state must update their

ment in your jurisdiction to find out which

license as well.

bag at the curb on the regular garbage day to

The Katy Freeway also offers toll lanes for solo drivers, with prices varying at different travel times. offers

curb-to-curb

service

for

and cable television services, along with

CONSOLIDATED COMMUNICATIONS Consolidated Communications is a leading business

and

broadband

communica-

tions provider serving customers across its

day garbage and light trash are collected. To obtain a Texas driver license, take proof

11-state service area. Consolidated provides

Many subdivisions opt to contract with local

of registration, proof of insurance, a Social

advanced

collection companies, and fees for these

Security card or a current W-2 form, and

business and residential customers across

services are typically included in the home-

a valid out-of-state license to the nearest

their fiber-rich network, which extends

owner’s association dues. Contact your

Department of Public Safety office. For

across California, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas,

homeowner’s association for information.

license requirements including fees and

communication

solutions

Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, Pennsylvania and Texas. Founded more than a century ago, the company is dedicated to turning tech-

locations, visit www.txdps.state.tx.us.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Vehicles may be registered for license plates at district field offices in the county of residence. The cost is based on the model and year for

nology into solutions, connecting people

The Metropolitan Transit Authority of

cars and gross weight for trucks. Subsequent

and enriching how their customers work

Harris County, also known as METRO, is

registration may be handled by mail or in

and live. Consolidated prides itself on deliv-

recognized as one of the best and safest bus

person. Motor vehicle registration renewals

ering a better experience by putting their

systems in the nation offering an extensive

may be purchased at various locations.

customers’ needs first; building a stronger

system of bus routes and a growing network

community through employee volunteerism

of light-rail lines.

• In Harris County, call 713-224-1919 or visit www.tax.co.harris.tx.us.

and company giving; and evolving and innovating to meet and exceed the needs and

For

expectations of their customers.

provides Park & Ride services from three

commuting

alternatives,

METRO

• In Fort Bend County, call 281-342-3411 or visit www.fortbendcountytx.gov.

locations in West Houston and Katy, Visit www.consolidated.com or call

including Addicks (Highway 6), Kingsland

In Texas, you must buckle up. Children

844-YOUR-CCI (844-968-7224).

and Grand Parkway.

eight years of

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

| CONTINUED PAGE 78 >

LIVE THE GIG

Delivering 1 Gig speed to your home through fiber-to-the-home technology. Discover new and exciting things the Internet has to offer with CCI! If your home is like most, you have multiple devices tied to one Internet connection in your home. These devices can be TVs, laptops, smartphones, tablets, printers, home security systems or game consoles. The more devices you have connected to your Internet connection, the more overall speed you need to support them.

Consolidated Communications, Inc. (CCI) offers 1 Gig service*, which is equivalent to 1,000 Mbps, and is among the fastest connections available to residential customers across the nation. The 1 Gig service gives you the freedom to do more.

CUSTOMERS WITH A 1 GIG CONNECTION CAN EXPERIENCE: - Use multiple devices at once without sacrificing speed - S tream movies, download videos and upload photos with virtually no buffering or waiting - Experience online gaming with a fast, stable connection - R un multiple security cameras and use â&#x20AC;&#x153;smart homeâ&#x20AC;? technology with remote access to video, locks, lights, thermostat and other household devices -W ork from home with a reliable connection that supports VPN access and video conferencing -W ith no data caps you never have to worry about tracking your usage

*SERVICE IS NOT AVAILABLE IN ALL AREAS

TO FIND OUT MORE PLEASE CALL 844.YOUR.CCI OR VISIT CONSOLIDATED.COM.

ADVERTISER CONTRIBUTION

R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N

TEXAS GOVERNMENT

age or younger or shorter than 4 feet nine

of liability insurance. Subsequent registra-

inches must be secured in an approved car

tion may be handled by mail or in person.

seat. Texas also has a mandatory automo-

Motor vehicle registration renewals may be

VOTER REGISTRATION

bile liability insurance law, and if a driver

purchased at various locations.

You must be 18 years old, a resident of the

is stopped for any reason, proof of liability

county in which you’re registering and a

insurance coverage will be necessary. The insurance required must provide: $30,000 bodily injury, $60,000 per person per accident and $25,000 property damage. A copy of the Texas Motor Vehicle Laws is available at www.txdmv. gov.

TWO STEPS, ONE STICKER Texas employs a “Two Steps, One Sticker” vehicle inspection and registration program. The blue-bordered registration sticker serves

U.S. citizen to vote. Simply fill out a voter

PUBLIC SAFETY

registration application which is available at a Voter Registrar’s Office, the Secretary

FIRE AND POLICE DEPARTMENTS

of State’s Office, many post offices, libraries

For emergencies only: dial 911.

no later than 30 days prior to an election in

For non-emergencies: dial 311. The Houston Police Department or the

and high schools. Submit your application order to vote in it. Contact the Texas Secretary of State at 1-800-252-VOTE or visit www.votetexas.gov.

Harris County Sheriff have jurisdiction in most areas of Harris County, while the

LEGAL RECORDS

Memorial Villages are served by their own

Legal records maintained by Harris County

vehicle inspection is a requirement to renew

autonomous police departments. The Fort

include birth certificates, death certificates,

a registration.

Bend County Sheriff ’s Office has jurisdic-

marriage

tion in those parts of the region that lie in

fees and inspections, divorce proceedings,

Fort Bend.

taxes and more. Call the Harris County

as a combined proof of registration and inspection with one expiration date. Passing

Vehicles may be registered for license plates at district field offices in the county of resi-

licenses,

automobile

licenses,

Court House at 713-755-6411 or go to

dence. The cost is based on the model and

Active Crime Watch programs operate in

year for cars and gross weight for trucks. To

numerous neighborhoods, and another very

valuable program known as Crime Stoppers

PET LICENSING/ LEASH LAWS

and pay a new resident fee, a title fee, and the

accepts anonymous tips and offers rewards

cost of new license plates. All out-of-state

for information leading to an arrest.

Dogs and cats in Texas must be vaccinated against rabies by four months of age. They will need a booster after a year, and then every one-to-three years after that. Any veterinarian can administer vaccinations and provide license tags, as well as informa-

vehicles are required to have the following of safety inspection, (2) your out-of-state

• Houston Crime Stoppers 713-222-TIPS (8477)

title, (3) payment of a new resident fee, a

• Fort Bend County Crime Stoppers

for registry in the state of Texas: (1) proof

title fee, the license plate’s cost, and (4) proof

281-342-TIPS (8477)

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

www.co.harris.tx.us.

tion on keeping your pet healthy in Texas. 

HARRIS COUNTY Auto Registration........................713-368-2000 County Clerk Stan Stanart ..........713-755-6411 Clerk’s Office – Marriage license.713-755-6436 Clerk’s Office –Real Property......713-755-6439 County Judge Ed Emmett...........713-755-4000 Driver’s License..........................713-224-1919 Library ......................................713-749-9000 Main Telephone..........................713-755-5000 Precinct 1 Rodney Ellis, Commissioner.......713-274-1000 Precinct 3 Steve Radack, Commissioner 713-755-6306 Precinct 4 R. Jack Cagle, Commissioner......281-353-8100 Permits.......................................713-956-3000 Property Tax...............................713-368-2000 Vital Statistics.............................713-755-6382 Voter Registration.713-368-2200/713-224-1919

GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS

CONNECT CITY OF HOUSTON HELP Line............................................... 311 City Hall ....................................713-247-1000 900 Bagby, Houston 77002 Office of Mayor Sylvester Turner ........................713-837-0311 Office of the City Controller Chris Brown ..............................832-393-3460 Central Library...........................832-393-1313 METRO.....................................713-635-4000 Parks and Recreation..................713-845-1000 Property Information..................713-837-7719 Property Tax...............................713-368-2000 Water/Sewer/Garbage ...............713-837-9100 Vital Statistics.............................713-247-1686

CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS District A –Brenda Stardig..........832-393-3010 District B - Jerry Davis ...............832-393-3009 District C - Ellen Cohen............. 832-393-3004 District D - Dwight Boykins .......832-393-3001 District E – Dave Martin.............832-393-3008 District F - Steve Le................... 832-393-3002 District G - Greg Travis ..............832-393-3007 District H - Karla Cisneros..........832-393-3003 District I - Robert Gallegos .........832-393-3011 District J - Mike Laster................832-393-3015 District K Martha Castex-Tatum.................832-393-3016

CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS AT-LARGE Position 1 - Mike Knox ..............832-393-3014 Position 2 - David W. Robinson ..832-393-3013 Position 3 - Michael Kubosh .......832-393-3005 Position 4 - Amanda Edwards ....832-393-3012 Position 5 - Jack Christie ...........832-393-3006

TEXAS STATE REPRESENTATIVES Kevin Roberts, District 126..........281-444-1814 Tom Oliverson, District 130.........281-955-5152 Valoree Swanson, District 150.....281-257-4222 Armando Walle, District 140.......713-694-8020 TEXAS STATE SENATORS Paul Bettencourt, District 7 ........713-464-0282 John Whitmire, District 15 .........713-864-8701 UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Kevin Brady................................936-441-5700 John Culberson ..........................713-682-8828 Al Green....................................713-383-9234 Sheila Jackson Lee ....................713-861-4070 Ted Poe..............281-446-0242 / 866-447-0242 Gene Green................................281-999-5879 UNITED STATES SENATORS John Cornyn...............................713-572-3337 Ted Cruz....................................713-718-3057

ART Cultural Arts Council of Houston & Harris County...........713-527-9330 Society for the Performing Arts...713-227-5134 Texas Commission on the Arts....512-463-5535

BUSINESS RESOURCES Better Business Bureau................713-868-9500 Small Business Administration....713-773-6500 State Comptroller of Public Accounts..........................713-868-9112 Texas Dept. of Economic Dev. ...512-936-0101 Texas Railroad Commission........713-869-5001 U.S. Customs..............................281-985-6700 U.S. Dept. of Commerce.............800-872-8723

FAMILY RESOURCES AARP – National Office.............800-424-3410 AARP – Southwest Region.........214-265-4060 Amigos de las Americas..............713-782-5290 Boy Scouts..................................713-659-8111 Child Care Council ....................713-266-6045 Children’s Protective Services......713-394-4000

Crisis Hotline..............................713-468-5463 Family Service Center.................713-861-4849 Food Bank..................................713-223-3700 Furniture Bank...........................713-842-9771 Girl Scouts..................................713-292-0300 Houston Area Women’s Center...713-528-6798 Interfaith Ministry......................713-522-3955 Junior Achievement....................713-682-4500 Licensed Day Care List ..............713-940-5200 Medicare....................................800-442-2620 Mental Health Association..........713-523-8963 Neighborhood Centers Inc. (Day Care Information)...............713-667-9400 Poison Control............................713-654-1701 Sheltering Arms Sr. Services........713-956-1888 United Way................................713-685-2300 Y.M.C.A.....................................713-659-8501 Y.W.C.A.....................................713-868-9922

CONSUMER RESOURCES Better Business Bureau................713-868-9500 Consumer Credit Counseling......713-923-2227 CSC Credit Service.....................800-753-1312 Consumer Fraud – Harris County................... 713-755-5836 Texas Consumer Protection – Attorney General........................713-223-5886 Texas Taxpayers & Research.......512-472-8838 U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.....................800-638-2772 U.S. Consumer Information........800-688-9889

HOUSING INFORMATION Houston Apartment Assoc..........281-933-2224 Houston Assoc. of REALTORS..713-629-1900 Houston Relocation Professionals www.houstonrelopros.org

LEGAL RESOURCES Houston Bar Association.............713-759-1133 Houston Lawyer Referral Ser. .....713-237-9429 Texas Lawyer Referral Ser. .........800-252-9690

MISC. Harris County Dem. Party..........713-802-0085 Harris County Rep. Party............713-838-7900 Houston Chronicle .....................713-220-7171 Houston ISD..............................713-892-7700 Internal Revenue Service.............800-829-1040 League of Women Voters............713-784-2923 National Weather Service............281-337-5074 Social Security Administration....800-772-1213 Texas Environmental Quality Commission...................713-767-3500 Yellow Cab.................................713-236-1111

SPORTS AND TICKET INFORMATION Houston Astros....800-ASTROS-2/713-627-9622 Houston Dynamos ....................713-276-7500 Houston Rockets.........................713-627-9622 Houston Texans..........................832-662-2000 NRG Stadium ............................713-289-2002

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

I N T E R N AT I O N A L R E L O C AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N

TRANSPORTATION

Credit Card

Texas Drivers License Application &

www.creditcards.com • Request a credit card & debit card (ATM) when opening a bank account. • You will need a residential address, phone & place of employment, credit history.

Locations: www.dps.texas.gov/DriverLicense/movingtotexas.htm • Texas has a 90-day grace period. • A written & driving skills test required.

MOVING TIPS What to do Social Security Number 1-800-772-1213 Information/ Application www.ssa.gov/forms Physical locations: 8989 Lakes at 610 Drive, 77054 16200 Dillard Drive, 77040 5414 Aldine Mail Road, 77039

• Credit cards, cash, checks, and money orders.

Apartment

number, proof of residency, lawful

Houston Apartment Association Q&A: www.haaonline.org • Prices for apartments are based on apartment size and number of bedrooms Rates typically include basic utilities (ask for details). • Rental requirements include: a credit & security check. Texas Drivers license, passport, bank statement, proof of employment, and a deposit. • Rental applications may require your credit history, employment history, rental history and criminal history, and disclosure of legal status or proof of legal residency. • You are responsible for your lease for the entire term of your contract. • If you terminate your lease contract early, rent may be accelerated and additional charges can be levied against you. • Get any changes to your lease contract or term in writing. • Be sure to ask about pet deposits. • Apartment locators will help you find an apartment and their services are free.

presence, status. • Proof of vehicle registry. • Completed application.

BANKING Credit Unions www.findabetterbank.com • Credit unions are owned by members. If your company has a credit union, you can easily set up an account and get a credit card. • Social Security number, a photo ID (passport), minimum deposit required.

THINGS TO KNOW Wait 10 days after your arrival to apply for a social security number.

Banks www.findabetterbank.com • A checking account can be opened individually or jointly. • A debit card will give you immediate

Takes approximately 2 weeks for the card to arrive. No fee for the application.

access online and at ATMs. • Social Security number, driver’s license, proof of residence, photo ID (passport), pay stub or utility bill and a minimum opening deposit.

Take original or certified copies of immigration documents, passport & biographical information & photo. 80

HOUSING

• Take your passport, social security

• I nternational banks in the USA include HSBC, Citigroup, Barclays, Deustche B ank and Credit Suisse • A n account at one of these banks can usually be opened in the US.

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

Leasing a Home • You might be expected to take care of the yard on a weekly basis, maintain the property and abide by homeowner regulations. Always check lease agreement.

• Leasing a home is much like renting an apartment. • You will pay all the utility bills (water, power, trash pickup & cable). • You will need a TX driver’s license, proof of employment, credit & personal references & a deposit consisting of the first & last month’s rent.

• You will need your social security number, passport, health history, employer information, and a credit card.

Buying a home

Internal Revenue Service

• You can view homes for sale and find a Realtor who speaks your language on www.HAR.com.

Federal income tax for most workers is filed on April 15 of each year. There are numerous rules and regulations for expatriates, the following are resources to get you started. Internal Revenue Service: www.irs.gov

Realtor/Homes for Sale & Lease www.HAR.com • You can check your credit score through your bank. • To purchase a home you will need a good credit score based on your credit history. • Report all of your income on your tax return as mortgage loans require proof of income - typically your IRS return. • You do not need a Realtor to purchase a home, but Realtors are trained to help you with pricing and other legal responsibilities. • Realtors use various sources including Multiple Listing Service to find homes. • Realtors are usually paid by the seller, their services are free to buyers.

New Homes/Builders/ Communities www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com Realtors are independent and can help you locate a newly constructed home available from a variety of builders. Builder sales reps. work for the builder. If you are working with a Realtor, you should register your Realtor with the homebuilder when you arrive.

HEALTHCARE

Affordable Care Act www.healthcare.gov • If you are relocating to the U.S. for a job, the HR department will assist you with health insurance for your family. • To shop and compare health insurance visit the Affordable Care Act web page.

TAXES

Community colleges are located in all parts of Houston. Houston has numerous 4-year colleges and technical schools

State of Texas

Private Schools

Texas does not have state taxes. Texas collects 8.25% sales tax and property tax only.

• HoustonNewcomerGuides.com

EDUCATION Day Care:

www.childcarecenter.us • Some centers only care for children until they are ready for Kindergarten at age 5. Other schools offer Kindergarten. • Will need your child’s birth certificate, social security number, passport, application. • Schools vary widely, make several trips with and without your child at different times of the day. Ask for referrals.

Public Schools PK-12 Texas Education Association: tea.texas.gov • Required for children 6-18 years of age

• Houstonprivateschools.com • Privateschoolreview.com There are a variety of independent and faith-based private schools in the Houston area. • Enrollment is most cases is based on openings in certain grades. • Check with each school for enrollment requirements as they vary from school to school. • International schools offer the International Baccalaureate program and might be better suited for children planning to later attend university outside the US.

IMMIGRATION VISA Most questions are answered on the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration web sites below. Contact your Consulate about your country’s requirements. General How Do I Guides: • www.uscis.gov • www.uscitizenship.info Employment Visas:

in USA.

• www.travel.state.gov

• Child’s birth certificate, passport, social security number, transcript, doctor’s

• www.uscis.gov

statement.

Green Card:

• The Houston area has excellent public

www.uscis.gov/greencard

schools which serve students from Pre-K through 12th grade. • You can research individual school districts, schools, ratings and test scores at the Texas Education Association web site. Elementary school (grade 1 through 5 or 6), Middle school or junior high (up to grade 8 or 9), High school or senior high (up to grade 12).

Permanent Residents: www.uscis.gov Schedule appointment with USCIS officer: infopass.uscis.gov

PETS Entry Requirements: www.dshs.texas.gov • Dogs & cats must be vaccinated by 4 months of age followed by booster shots every couple of years.

College

• Pets not wearing license tags and/or

www.petersons.com

leashed can be impounded.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

PLACES OF

WORSHIP

Half of Americans have looked for a new church or place of worship, most because they moved. If faith is a vital part of your daily life, you should easily be able to find a spiritual home in the West Houston area. In addition to sacred enlightenment, places of worship also provide social support, volunteer opportunities, educational options, and access to groups with common interests. If you are looking to make new friends, a congregation might be the perfect place to find them. * *Pew Research 2015

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Assemblies Of God Braeswood Assembly of God 713-777-1651 | braeswoodchurch.org Family Life 281-392-0637 | flag.church BAPTIST Bear Creek Baptist 281-859-9900 | bearcreek.church Clay Road Baptist 713-462-3401 | gocrbc.org Houston First Baptist 713-681-8000 | houstonsfirst.org Second Baptist Church 713-465-3408 | second.org Second Baptist Church – West 713-465-3408 | second.org/west Tallowood Baptist 713-468-8241 | tallowood.org Westbury Baptist Church 713-723-6428 | wbchouston.org BUDDHIST Vietnamese Buddhist Center 281-575-0910 | vnbc.org West Houston Zen Center 713-467-0997 | westhoustonzen.org CATHOLIC St. Albert of Trapani 713-771-3596 | stalbertoftrapani.org St. Anne Catholic Community 713-526-3276 | saintanne.org St. Andrew Kim Korean 713-465-2682 | stakim.org St. Cecilia Catholic Church 713-465-3414 | saintcecilia.org St. Michael Catholic Church 713-621-4370 | stmichaelchurch.net

Fry Road Church of Christ 281-578-1897 | fryroad.org

St. Mark Lutheran 713-468-2623 | stmarkhouston.org

Westbury Church of Christ 713-729-7880 | westburycoc.com

METHODIST Ashford Methodist Church 281-497-1146 | ashfordumc.org

West Houston Church of Christ 281-856-0001 | westhoustonchurch.org EPISCOPAL Ascension Episcopal Church 713-781-1330 | aeshouston.org

Bear Creek United Methodist 281-463-2330 | bearcreekumc.org Chapelwood Methodist Church 713-465-3467 | chapelwood.org

The Church of St John The Devine 713 622-3600 | www.sjd.org

First Methodist Houston 713-652-2999 | fmhouston.com

Emmanuel on Memorial 281-493-3161 | emmanuel-houston.org

Memorial Drive United Methodist 713-468-8356 | mdumc.org

Holy Spirit Episcopal Church. 713-468-5138 | holyspirithouston.org St. Christophers Episcopal Church 713-465-6015 | stchrishouston.org St. Francis Episcopal Church 713-782-1270 | sfch.org St. Martin’s Episcopal Church 713-621-3040 | stmartinsepiscopal.org St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church 713-521-0891 | ststephenshouston.org HINDU Chinmaya Mission 281-568-9520 | cmw.chinmayamission.com

INTERDENOMINATIONAL New Life Church 713-932-1479 | newlifechurch.net ISLAM Houston Masjid of Al-Islam 713-643-9586 | masjidwdmohammed.com

Masjid El Faroug Islamic Center 713-465-2020 | elfarouq.org

St. Thomas More Catholic 713-729-0221 | stmhouston.org

JEWISH Congregation Beth Israel 713-771-6221 | beth-israel.org

St. John Vianney Church 281-497-1500 | stjohnvianney.org

Congregation Beth Rambam 713-723-3030 | bethrambam.org

CHRISTIAN (DISCIPLES OF CHRIST) Current Christian Church 281-395-4722 | currentchristian.org

Temple Sinai 281-496-5950 | temple-sinai.org

St. Peters Methodist Church 281-492-8031 | stpkaty.org St. Luke’s Methodist Church 713-622-5710 | stlukesmethodist.org Westminster United Methodist 713-782-7750 | wumc.com NON DENOMINATIONAL Bridgepoint Bible Church 832-448-1330 | bridgepointbible.org Current Christian Church 281-395-4722 | currentchristian.org Hope City Church | yourhopecity.com Katy Community Fellowship 281-391-0099 | katyfellowship.com Lakewood Church 713-635-4154 | lakewoodchurch.com Powerhouse Christian Church 281-391-0095 | powerhousechurch.tv ORTHODOX St. Joseph’s Orthodox Church 713-973-7001 | saintjosephorthodox.org PRESBYTERIAN Covenant Presbyterian Church 281-870-0349 | covenantpca.org Grace Presbyterian Church 713-781-7615 | gpch.org Grand Lakes Presbyterian Church 281-646-7500 | grandlakespc.org

First Christian-Katy 281-492-2693 | fcckaty.com

LUTHERAN All Saints Lutheran 281-498-5047 | allsaintslutheranco.org

Memorial Drive Christian Church 713-789-0060 | mdccdoc.org

Christ Memorial Lutheran 281-497-0250 | christ-memorial.org

Memorial Drive Presbyterian 713-782-1710 | mdpc.org

CHRISTIAN SCIENCE Seventh Church of Christ, Scientist 713-532-7323 | christianscienceheals.com

Christ the Servant Lutheran 713-784-6620 | christtheservant.net

Pines Presbyterian Church 713-467-2234 | pinespc.org

Memorial Lutheran Church 713-782-6079 | mlchouston.org

St. Philip Presbyterian Church 713-622-4807 | saintphilip.net

St. Andrew Lutheran 713-468-9565 | standrew-lcms.org

St. Thomas Presbyterian Church 281-497-4846 | stthomaspc.org

CHURCH OF CHRIST Alston Road Church of Christ 832-886-4594 | alstonroadchurch.org

Christ Evangelical Presbyterian 713-526-1188 | cepc.org

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

in this section area hospitals medical moving tips finding a doctor

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ISSUE 1

HEALTHCARE RESOURCES The cutting-edge healthcare facilities, physicians and medical services available in Houston have grown over the years to meet the healthcare needs of the communities they serve. Patients now have the opportunity to heal closer to home, work and family. The city of Houston is world-famous for medical care. At the forefront of advancing life sciences, Texas Medical Center is one of the world’s most respected medical centers. Each year, TMC receives 10 million patient visits. It has 106,000 employees, 50,000 life science students and thousands of volunteers. It is home to 21 renowned hospitals, 14 support organizations, and a myriad of academic and research institutions, and specialty schools. As the largest medical complex in the world with 9200 beds, it is busy; a baby is born here every 20 minutes and a surgical procedure begins every three.

The world-class healthcare of the Texas

Memorial Hermann Katy is known for

Medical Center is now available in West

providing

Houston. Houston Methodist West Hospital

patient-centered care and leading edge

is a full-service, acute care hospital that

technology close to home. It is nationally

brings the Houston Methodist tradition

recognized for patient safety and quality

of excellence and leading medicine to

and features a medical staff with disciplines

West Houston, Katy and the surrounding

spanning 38 specialties.

The dedicated scholars collaborating at the Texas Medical Center have great expertise in cardiovascular disease, cancer, children’s medical problems, neuroscience, strokes, rehabilitations and other areas. More heart surgeries are performed here than anywhere else in the world. www.texasmedicalcenter.org.

and the only dedicated pediatric emergency

In addition to the most modern and

service in Greater West Houston. Recently,

comprehensive healthcare facilities in the

TCH West was one of just 13 hospitals out

Greater Houston region, residents of West

of more than 1,300 nationwide to be selected

Houston and Katy can find family doctors

as a Top Children’s Hospital by The Leapfrog

and specialists, as well as neighborhood

Group, which compares hospitals across the

emergency clinics that are equipped to

nation based on safety, quality and efficiency.

treat most illnesses, minor injuries and

communities. With almost 200 beds and some of the most innovative minds in South Texas, it is tending to virtually every health care need. The Texas Children’s Hospital West Campus is the area’s only dedicated pediatric hospital,

excellent

clinical

expertise,

Houston’s world-renowned M.D. Anderson Cancer Center is now in Katy. Taking advantage of more than 70 years’ experience in dealing with cancer, the center offers cancer care and treatment in a community setting, keeping patients close to home.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

HEALTHCARE RESOURCES

other health-related needs. With little or no waiting, walk-in patients can get a routine physical, school immunizations, and standard screening tests. Some clinics are located within stores or shopping centers and have extended hours to accommodate their patients. Recent additions to personal health care options include specialty clinics that treat conditions such as smoking cessation and weight loss. Wellness Centers affiliated with hospitals or a physician’s practice frequently offer weight reduction, health management programs and medical spa treatments.

MOVING MEDICAL TIPS

Houston Methodist West Hospital houstonmethodist.org/west Houston

Methodist

West

Hospital

leading medicine in the West Houston, Katy and surrounding communities by delivering the Houston Methodist standard of unparalleled safety, quality, service and

If you have a special healthcare need or requirement, refer to and call the healthcare advertisers in this publication to get information.

Call the offices of all your current physicians/dentists and tell them that you are moving. Ask for referrals they might be willing to make.

If you have already selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician to forward copies of the records of each of your family members to your new doctor.

4 5 6 7

innovation. As Houston Methodist’s fifth hospital since 1919, the hospital provides nearly 200 beds and some of the most inno-

If you have not yet selected physicians/dentists, ask your current physician/ dentist to make copies of pertinent records of all your family members for you to take with you. Pack these records in your suitcase, not in the moving van, so they will be readily available in case of an emergency.

vative minds in South Texas, addressing virtually every health care need. Clinical excellence at Houston Methodist West begins with the highly trained medical staff, representing a wide range of medical specialties and subspecialties. Specialties include orthopedics and sports medicine, neurology, cancer, heart and vascular care, minimally invasive surgery, urology, and women’s services, among others.

It is extremely important that you get the immunization records for your children before you move. You cannot enroll your children in local schools without these records. You will also need certified copies of your children’s birth certificates as well as the addresses of your children’s former schools. If you are a member of a healthcare HMO/PPO plan, or have a prescription drug card, be sure to notify the company of your moving plans. The insurance company should be able to provide you with a list of physicians/ healthcare facilities in the area. Pack an emergency first aid kit to take en route to your new home. Items such as bandages, thermometer, pain killers or aspirin, antihistamine, firstaid ointment, tweezers and decongestant can come in handy.

These professionals collaborate to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care right in your backyard. The hospital houses some of today’s latest technologies to ensure you’re receiving the best care possible. Patients experience a spiritual, healing environment thanks to the natural atmosphere, chapel, private patient rooms and chaplaincy services. Houston

Methodist

West

Hospital

currently expanding to meet the area’s growing population. The expansion will

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

additional

patient

rooms,

emergency

rooms and state-of-the-art operating rooms. Expansion of imaging services will include the latest screening technology, and the maternity unit will have the newest patient and guest amenities. An additional free

For more information about Houston Meth-

a medical staff of more than 1,000 affil-

odist West, visit houstonmethodist.org

iated physicians representing more than

Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center www.memorialhermann.org 713-272-1673

70 specialties, each day Memorial City explores new, innovative treatments that are changing health care and improving quality of life for patients. Their 426-bed facility includes a 33-story tower, home

parking garage was recently completed. Free valet services are offered at the main

Building on a 40-year legacy of caring

to Women’s Memorial Hermann, Chil-

entrance of the hospital for the convenience

for the residents of Greater and west

dren’s Memorial Hermann and a new

of patients and their guests.

Houston, Memorial Hermann Memo-

Center for Advanced Orthopedics. Their

rial City Medical Center is an advanced,

comprehensive Cancer Center, Digestive

At Houston Methodist, your family’s well-

award-winning academic medical center,

Health Center and IRONMAN Sports

being is at the center of everything wedo.

offering high-level care typically found

Medicine Institute offer highly special-

From simple checkups to more complex

only in the Texas Medical Center. With

ized care close to home. 

concerns, our new Primary Care group in Katy at 23530 Kingsland Blvd. provides the compassionate care you need, as well as access to Houston Methodist’s leading network of world-class specialists. Many patients require extended hospitalization after a short stay in the hospital. Houston Methodist St. Catherine, located just a few miles away in Katy, is designed for patients with complex clinical needs who require intensive medical and rehabilitative care, and who are not well enough for placement in a skilled nursing or rehabilitation facility. Houston

Methodist

Emergency

Care

Center in Cinco Ranch is open 24/7/365 to treat patients of all ages who are ill or injured. The state-of-the-art facility includes 10 private treatment rooms and on-site emergency care services, including X-ray, computed tomography (CT) scan, ultrasound and laboratory services. The center is located at 26000 FM 1093 (at Cinco Rose), between the Cinco Ranch and Fulshear communities. For conditions requiring hospital admis-

FINDING A DOCTOR Moving to a new city is exciting, but it also requires finding the grocery store you like, the schools your kids will attend - and the healthcare practitioners that fit the needs of your family. The following is list of local and national physician resource, including the American Medical Association - where you can search for general practice physicians by location, specialty, and more. American Medical Association: Resource for general health information, as well as a search function for local physician resource under the “Patients” tab of the site. www.ama-assn.org

sion or further evaluation, patients have direct, expedited admission to Houston Methodist West. As West Houston, Katy and Fulshear continue to grow, Houston Methodist West will continue growing with it. With a full range of services and specialties and facilities throughout the region, you can be confident

American Academy of Pediatrics: National website for children’s health resources; separate “Parenting Corner” website is comprehensive site for health-related news, questions, and other topics. www.aap.org • www. healthychildren.org Texas Medical Association: Listing of member physicians across the state, as well as information on general health resources; go to the “Find A Physician” tab to search by specialty or location. www.texmed.org

you’ll find expert care, close to home.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

in this section major employers local chambers of commerce Houston by the numbers cost of living & map

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ISSUE 1

BUSINESS &

COMMUNITY In all, there are more than 300 local, national and multinational energy-related companies in West Houston; but the region’s economic diversity goes way beyond oil and gas.

The

Houston

growth of Cypress Fairbanks. This member-

its primary purpose is to increase the values

employers reads like a Who’s Who list of

roster

major

West

driven organization is the collective voice for

of district properties through initiatives in

global corporate giants, from BP America

its more than 500 member businesses, and

transportation, public safety and security,

and Shell, to ConocoPhillips and Citgo

provides value through advocacy, leadership

urban environmental design, business devel-

Petroleum. Approximately 600,000 people

and growth. It works to support and unite

opment, and staffing and administration.

work in the West Houston area, with other

members, while creating strategic partner-

major employers involved in healthcare,

ships in transportation, education and local

Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce

education, transportation, engineering and

infrastructure. It also maintains strong alli-

www.fortbendchamber.com

construction, and retail.

ances with elected officials which ensures

Following is a partial list of some of the

that it remains well informed on public

The largest single county chamber in the

policy affecting the region.

Houston region, the Fort Bend Chamber

major chambers of commerce and economic development

organizations

working

advance West Houston and surrounding areas; their websites offer a wealth of information about the region.

of Commerce has more than 1,200 member Energy Corridor District www.energycorridor.org The Energy Corridor District works to

companies and organizations. As the voice and advocate for business excellence, the chamber strives to be a catalyst for economic

enhance the quality of life and sense of

prosperity, tourism and community involve-

Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce

place in the over 1,700 acres that extend

ment. It is among the 1% of chambers of

www.cyfairchamber.com

along both sides of Interstate 10 and along

commerce in the nation to earn a 5-Star

Eldridge Parkway. The district’s vision is to

Accreditation, and is committed to main-

Since 1986, the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber

be internationally recognized as a premier

taining and improving the excellent quality

of Commerce has played a vital role in the

place in which to work, live and invest. And

of life enjoyed in Fort Bend.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY

Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce

HOUSTON by the NUMBERS Want to know how living the Houston area compares to other cities? Assuming a $60,000 salary in the city you’re moving from and that you’d own a house here, we used a salary/cost of living calculator to help figure out the rest. If you made $53,759 in Denver, for example, your salary could decrease to $41,995 in Houston - and you’d still maintain the same standard of living. See the table below for the results from a sampling of other cities.

www.fulshearareachamber.com The Fulshear Area Chamber of Commerce helps all types of businesses increase their exposure

and

networking

opportunities

within the over 300 square mile service area. The fastest-growing chamber in Texas, the organization strives to constantly and consistently find innovative ways to involve and support all members. It is committed to being a prolific multi-event and networking content provider in order to benefit the area business community. Some sponsored events include: “How to Win Wednesdays,” “Fulshear State

MOVING FROM HERE

SALARY

MOVING FROM HERE

SALARY

of the City,” and weekly podcasts. Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council

Phoenix

61,439

New York City

25,910

Detroit

61,826

Los Angeles

41,996

Austin

61,375

Chicago

50,705

San Francisco

33,401

Las Vegas

54,455

Boston

40,832

Portland

45,498

the county, the Fort Bend EDC and its part-

Denver

53,759

St. Louis

63,697

growth, quality development, workforce

Miami

52,467

Raleigh

65,105

Pittsburgh

59,757

Cincinnati

64,818

Dallas

61,311

Charleston

58,336

www.fortbendcounty.org The Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council promotes economic vitality in Fort Bend. Championing the causes that support and grow the business culture in ners are the leading advocates for economic development, and pro-business policies on a local, state, and federal level. They advocate for policies that encourage businesses to relocate and expand within the county, commit capital investment, and retain and create quality jobs. Houston West Chamber of Commerce www.hwcoc.org “In Business, For Business” is the motto of the Houston West Chamber of Commerce, which has been working for West Houstonians since 1975. The chamber lists four cornerstones:

creating

and

improving

economic opportunities for all; advocating and creating a climate of growth and success for its broad and diverse business membership; providing unique opportunities for members by connecting them to important community issues; and building stronger communities by staying focused and involved in top business, civic and social priorities.

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

Katy Area Chamber of Commerce www.katychamber.com The Katy Area Chamber of Commerce has served the Katy-area business community by assisting with and advocating for business development and economic growth since 1960. This voluntary organization of businesses and professionals offers services to strengthen existing businesses, encourage small business creation, and develop a talented workforce. Acting as spokesman for the business and professional community, the chamber delivers services to enhance the quality of life

“

Home to hundreds of energy related companies, Central & West Houston is solidly grounded as the energy hub of Houston, the Energy Capital of the World. But West Houston’s thriving economy is also highly diversified.

”

and business development opportunities for members and the whole community. Katy Business Association www.katybusinessassociation.com The Katy Business Association promotes businesses in the downtown “Heart of Katy,” where visitors can find antiques stores, restaurants, gift and specialty shops, arts and crafts, and much more. Downtown Katy also has an information and tourist center located in the historic Missouri-Kansas-Texas railroad depot. The KBA and its members work to preserve the traditions and history that make Katy one of the best cities to live and work, while meeting the challenges of today’s growth and changing demographics. Katy Economic Development Council www.katyedc.com Founded in 2003, the Katy Area Economic Development Council’s mission is to lead the economic development efforts of the Katy area to recruit, retain and expand new high quality, high impact companies, jobs and talent to improve the quality of life and place of Katy-area residents. Since its inception, the Katy Area EDC has grown to over 200 members, has a budget of $500,000 and has assisted in the creation of jobs and more than $2.5 billions in capital investments. Spring Branch Management District www.sbmd.org Spring Branch Management District’s mission is to positively impact public

safety, business development, environ-

The West Houston Association has a

mental and urban design, and mobility

40-year history of bringing new ideas

and transportation to facilitate profit-

to Greater West Houston. Its member-

ability, promote the redevelopment and

ship includes property owners, major

growth of the area, and to help create

employers

an environment attractive to business.

interests who combine to advocate for

Located between the Energy Corridor, the

improved mobility, better infrastructure

Galleria and Downtown Houston, Spring

and a sustainable, quality of living envi-

Branch is an area rich with diverse culture

ronment for the 1.6 million residents and

and history. Initiatives by Spring Branch

600,000 employees. One major initiative is

Management District include public safety

its Quality Planned Development (QPD)

awareness programs, security patrols, graf-

program, which recognizes real estate

fiti removal and maintenance of various

developments designed to create quality

landscapes.

living and working environments, like

and

community

Cinco Ranch, Cross Creek Ranch, BridgeUptown Houston www.uptown-houston.com

land and Towne Lake.

Uptown Houston, the umbrella term for

Westchase District www.westchasedistrict.com

what was formerly called “the Galleria area,” is an urban community of exceptional beauty, sophistication, style and international prominence in the heart of Houston. Defined by its unique blend of prestigious business and residential addresses, with the best in shopping, hotels, dining and entertainment, Uptown is unrivaled as the city’s premiere shopping district. It also has more than 28 million

Westchase District was created by the State of Texas at the request of property owners within the district, who voluntarily tax themselves to provide a higher level of services than the city of Houston would. The District’s initiatives focus on economic development, mobility, beautification, and maintaining a high level

square feet of office space, 7,600 hotel

of public safety. As a result, Westchase

rooms, and is home to Waterwall Park.

District offers an attractive suburban lifestyle in one of Houston’s largest, most

West Houston Association www.westhouston.org

dynamic urban centers. The unique character of the District has made it a business and retail hub. 

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

in this section parks and attraction arts and culture sports and golf calendar of events dining & shopping

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ISSUE 1

LEISURE & RECREATION

Life is too short to just work; you gotta play too. And in vibrant Houston, fun activities abound, with annual events such as the world’s largest rodeo, the nation’s largest renaissance festival and the country’s quirkiest event, the art car parade.

The city’s diverse personality shines through with buoyant events like the Chinese New Year, Cinco de Mayo, Juneteenth and GLBT Pride Celebration. It’s often said that Houston doesn’t cherish its history, but that’s not the case with traditions like the 83-year-old Azalea Trail and numerous historic home tours. Plus, Houston’s rich arts, theatre and restaurant scenes offer exciting experiences every day. One of the best websites for finding out about special events in Houston is www.visithouston. com, the official site of the Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau. The website includes a visitor’s guide, interactive maps, coupons and discounts, and itinerary ideas. One of its most popular features is the Houston CityPass, which provides admission to 5 of Houston’s top attractions at a substantial discount!

AND IN THE WEST HOUSTON, THE FUN CONTINUES

Polynesian Dance studio or enjoy a perfor-

Some events, like Fulshear’s July 4 Freedom Fest, reflect the region’s small-town roots and love of tradition. Others, like the Katy Wild West Brew Fest and the West Houston Food Truck Festival, celebrate the region’s newer, trendier vibes.

Anjali Center for Performing Arts. Houston

West Houston has plenty of attractions, too, including cultural centers and history museums, like the Katy Heritage Museum, the Vietnam War Memorial, or the Veterans Museum of Texas, where the service provided by all American soldiers from World War II to the present is documented and celebrated. Part of the rich demographic diversity that is Houston, cultural centers and festivals celebrating societies from around the world are everywhere. In West Houston, you can take a hula class at Houston’s Hula Halou &

mance of traditional Indian dance at the is home to the second largest Asian population in America (after Los Angeles) and in West Houston, it’s very easy to enjoy a traditional Thai or Chinese meal, or treat yourself to a foot massage. Take the stage and hone your acting skills or watch others command the stage at a dramatic production at the Queensbury Theatre. Laugh until you cry and be part of the fun at Houston Improv, the city’s premier comedy club. Or take in one of the many galleries or show spaces. It’s possible to fly indoors on a supportive draft at Ifly. Water down those spicy hot summer days by slipping down a soggy slide at Typhoon Texas or paddle in a puddle at any one of the many splash-pad parks.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N

Beer Festival

If you need it, it’s here. The shopping in Houston draws wallets from around the world. And in West Houston, the shopping options are vast. From vibrant malls, outdoor markets and specialty shops, you

Food Truck Festival

WE ST H OUSTON PA RKS ARTHUR STOREY PARK Arthur Storey Park, blends the importance of storm water retention with a park envi-

can find the perfect thing, often at the

ronment that includes amenities provided

right price. New urban-style destinations

through a local initiative. Every weekend,

like CityCenter and LaCenterra also buzz

hundreds of Harris County residents enjoy

with free concerts, outdoor movies and

all that Arthur Storey Park has to offer.

much more. Some of the largest urban parks in the nation are in West Houston, like Terry Hershey Park where you can mountain bike the anthills, or Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary where you can enjoy an owl prowl. The former Exxon Chemical campus along the Katy Freeway is being developed into a wooded space for people to relax in nature and take a break from the bustle of urban life. Enjoying such a rich tapestry of activities and presentations takes fuel to keep your energy up, and in West Houston, you’re in luck. Hundreds of restaurants, from small mom-and-pop cafes to successful national franchises to one-of-a-kind culinary destinations mean the dining scene is varied and wonderful. You’ll be sure to find something to eat that hits the spot.

BAYLAND PARK Situated three miles outside of the southwest end of the Inner Loop—on 70 acres at the corner of Hillcroft and Bissonnet— Bayland Park remains a popular outdoor destination for visitors of all ages and abilities. The multi-use park makes room for different sports as it features fields for baseball, softball, football and soccer, as well as a tennis court, jogging trail, community center and a pavilion. Bayland Park is also equipped with a running track for the visually impaired. There are restrooms and picnic tables spread throughout the park, along with two playgrounds.

BEAR CREEK PIONEERS PARK The history of Bear Creek Pioneers Park that was created in the 1940s by the United States Army Corps of Engineers to prevent the repetition of flooding that occurred in Houston in 1935. Bear Creek Pioneers Park occupies a portion of the Addicks Reservoir, which was previously a land that

CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

was occupied for 100 years by farmers that were mostly German immigrants and their descendants. In 1965, Harris County leased 2,154 acres (8.72 km2) of the reservoir and started the park development. Bear Creek Pioneers Park is 2,168 acres in size and has paved roads and parking for visitors. The park also features walking trails, an equestrian trail, a small zoo (including buffalos, an ostrich, and emus) an aviary, playgrounds, soccer fields, little league and softball fields, four lighted tennis courts, eight picnic pavilions, horseshoe courts, and hundreds of picnic tables and grills. Near the aviary, ducks can been seen walking freely around a pond. The park also has restrooms all around the park and drinking water fountains.

CULLEN PARK Park visitors interested in enjoying the scenery can walk or ride their bikes along the paved trail that begins at the Phase II picnic area and ends 3.34 miles later at Highway 6. The trail takes you past wildflower plantings, 2 wetland environments, and through the shade of splendid oaks. In addition, there are 5 miles of trails in other areas of the park, some of which follow the picturesque banks of Mayde Creek.

GEORGE BUSH PARK

areas, a pond and a playground. But it

PAUL D. RUSHING PARK

Named in honor of the 41st president of the United States George H.W. Bush. The 7,800-acre park located on the far west side of Houston, serves as a major attraction and nature reserve. The park has a system of jogging trails, many surrounded by swamps, forest, and bayous. Many of the trails follow the Buffalo Bayou, and biking is popular year round. The trail is well known for its flexibility in biking, many speed bikers ride the trails. It is very similar to the nearby Terry Hershey Park in that both feature paved trails. A critical shortcoming of the trail system is that the sole paved trail does not form a loop, requiring cyclists to either ride in the traffic lanes of high-speed thoroughfares or retrace their route.

has something else few other places can

Named for Houston professional engi-

boast: a Soap Box Derby track. The half-

neer Paul D. Rushing who designed and

mile derby track was finished in 2010 and

coordinated a variety of area land devel-

In addition to the biking trail, there is a large wooden bridge that crosses the Buffalo Bayou, dubbed “the Boardwalk”. Capable of holding 5 tons (10,000 lbs.), the Boardwalk was built in 2004, mainly to cross the swampy, meandering Buffalo Bayou. The bayou flows slowly and unsteadily in the area, spilling some of its water into swamps as it conjunctions with a second bayou. The Boardwalk provides easy access across the bayou, seating, but no access to the Buffalo Bayou shoreline.

draws racers from around the region and beyond to try out their soap box skills. Visitors can also bike and rollerblade up and down the track which is built on a man-made hill.

MARY JO PECKHAM PARK In 1991 the Mary Jo Peckham Park for all Children opened. The park is designed to provide enjoyment for children and families,

opment projects over three decades, this 232-acre park is a gem in the Katy Prairie. In addition to a series of ballfields and clubhouses, Paul Rushing Park offers an abundance of other recreational opportunities. The Chain-of-Lakes wildlife habitat is a centerpiece. Covering more than 100 acres the area consists of a series of interconnected lakes of varying depths that

as well as older people and those with disabil-

provide the perfect habitat for native and

ities. Occupying 32 acres, the park features

seasonal birds. Summer birds include the

include a large playground; both toddler and

black-bellied whistling duck and black-

regular swing sets; a miniature golf course

necked stilt. Fall brings shorebirds and

that includes putters for young children;

waterfowl as well as hawks and sparrows.

picnic pavilion; gazebo; well-stocked fishing

Bald eagles and crested caracarases also

lake where you can feed the ducks; a lighted

make stops here.

walking trail; public restrooms both in the community center which houses an exercise

TERRY HERSHEY PARK

room and indoor pool and outside along the

The land occupied by Terry Hershey Park was

walking trail; several picnic tables; grills; and

acquired by the U.S. Army Corps of Engi-

a tropical fish pond.

neers in the 1940s. Located along the banks

NOTTINGHAM PARK

of Buffalo Bayou and South Mayde Creek,

Touted as a “Kid Fit Park” one of

the park spans 500 acres and features some of

Nottingham Park’s most impressive features

the nicest on and off-road bike trails in Texas.

HOCKLEY PARK

is the splash park - a terrific water play area

There is a walk-in sundial where your shadow

Hockley Park has many of the amenities typical of a county park, such as picnic

for kids of all ages, and one of the largest of

will tell you the time if you stand on the appro-

its kind in the Houston area.

priate stone (and if the sun is shining!).

WE S T HO US TO N & S U R ROUNDING A REA A TTRA CTIONS Brookwood Community www.brookwoodcommunity.org Located in Brookshire, just west of Katy, this is a non-profit residential facility and

Central Green www.willowforkdrainagedistrict.com/

City of Katy Attractions www.katychamber.com

central-green Katy offers the Railroad Park & Museum, Free outdoor movies, concerts and special

housed in the old MKT Depot, which also

events such as an annual children’s festival

serves as the city’s visitor information center.

are offered year-round at this half-acre

A caboose and elegant Verdin street clock

multipurpose park, surrounded by lakes and

grace the park. Also, the Katy Heritage

restaurants in LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch.

Museum displays vintage farming artifacts

The garden shop, with plants and flowers

Developed by the Willow Fork Drainage

from Katy’s pioneer days, along with old

grown by residents, rivals the best nurseries

District, Central Green has an outdoor

photos and antiques. Old Town Katy offers

anywhere. Ditto for the very popular café.

stage, large shady oaks, and outdoor seating

unique shopping and dining in the original

Group tours are available.

around a grassy lawn.

heart of Katy.

vocational program for adults with disabilities. Brookwood is known for the wonderful ceramics and other gift items made by its residents; its expansive gift shops and art galleries carry a wide array of unique items.

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N

Aerial view of Hermann Park

www.citycentrehouston.com

LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch www.lacenterra.com

West Houston’s urban-style mixed-use center

This shopping, dining and entertainment

than 20 years ago, the Galleria-area Water

at the Katy Freeway and Sam Houston

destination at Grand Parkway and Cinco

Wall offers a refreshing respite for visitors

Ranch Boulevard offers free public events

seeking a mid-afternoon break. The 64-foot-

throughout the year, including a weekly

tall fountain - built to look like a “horseshoe

Farmer’s Market, outdoor concert series,

of running water” - sits among 186 oak trees

Baby Boot Camp and Mondays with Mom.

at the base of the 64-story Williams Tower.

CityCentre

The Water Wall Galleria Designed by architect Philip Johnson more

Tollway offers an ongoing slate of events in addition to its shopping, dining and entertainment options. Check their website for events such as visual arts exhibits, live music and dancing under the stars, Doggy Party on the Plaza dates, and more.

Katy Veterans Museum cityofkaty.com/visit-us/museums

Katy Mills Mall

This museum in VFW Park features exhibits

www.katymills.com

of every foreign conflict involving the US. It also recalls the careers of the 130 members

A tourist destination of the retail kind, Katy

of the Katy VFW group, which includes

Mills has 1.3 million square feet of shop-

men and women from every branch of the

ping, dining and entertainment.

armed forces who served in combat.

Katy Heritage Park www.katyheritagesociety.com Katy Heritage Park has restored historical buildings including the Wright Museum, the Featherstone House, the Stockdick House and the old Post Office. Concerts are held at the Tradition Bank Bandstand. Katy Prairie Conservancy

Mary Jo Peckham Park Located north of I-10 West near Pin Oak, this 32-acre park includes a playground, mini golf, a large picnic pavilion and a fishstocked lake. It also has a lighted walking trail, a tropical fish pond, a community center with an exercise room, and restrooms. No Label Brewery www.nolabelbrew.com

www.katyprairie.org

Bayou Bend Collection & Gardens www.mfah.org Bayou Bend, the magnificent home of Miss Ima Hogg, is best known for her superb collection of American decorative arts, innovative architecture, and breathtaking gardens. The heavily wooded 14 acres (5.7 ha) along Buffalo Bayou include eight formal gardens. Three of the gardens are named for a statue of a goddess or muse displayed in the garden, Clio, Diana and Euturpe. Discovery Green www.discoverygreen.com Since it opened in 2008, this 12-acre downtown park has been a hit with Houstonians who enjoy its restaurants, public art displays, dog parks, lakes, and seasonal

Tour Katy’s own craft brewery, No Label

events including the holiday ice rink. More

Tour thousands of acres of preserved prairie

Brewing Co., located in a repurposed rice

than 1.2 million visitors come to more than

with leisurely family friendly tours or more

silo in Old Town Katy. Tours and tastings

600 events at Discovery Green each year,

strenuous nature hikes. Open Trails events

are offered every Saturday, and special

including movies in the park, concerts and

are also offered.

events take place throughout the year.

fitness programs.

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Hermann Park www.hermannpark.org Arguably Houston’s “Central Park,” this 445-acre park wedged between the Museum District and Medical Center celebrated its 100th birthday in 2014 with a major facelift and the new McGovern Centennial Gardens, featuring 15 acres of rose gardens, an interactive family garden, a 30-foot garden mount, and a sculpture promenade. Hermann Park is also home to the Houston Zoo, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, Miller Outdoor Theater, a Japanese Garden, train and pedal boats, and a golf course. Houston Arboretum & Nature Center www.houstonarboretum.org Nestled along the western edge of Memorial Park, the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and the opportunity to experience the natural world – all in the center of town. Visitors can explore nature by walking on five miles of trails, take classes and visit the Discovery Room and the Nature Shop at the Nature Shop. Visit Houston Zoo houstonzoo.org | www.shrp.com

With exemplary animal care in mind, the Zoo provides engaging animal experiences for visitors in multiple seasonal and permanent attractions, like holiday Zoo Lights and the new Gorillas of the African Forest exhibit. The Houston Zoo is open seven days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is located at 6200 Hermann Park Drive.

sightseers can enjoy passing views of international cargo vessels, and operations at the port’s Turning Basin Terminal. Measuring 95 feet in length and 24 feet in width, the boat carries a maximum capacity of 100 passengers, with air-conditioned lounge seating and additional standing room on the boat’s rear deck.

McGovern Centennial Gardens

Sam Houston Race Park

& Cherie Flores Garden Pavilion www.hermannpark.org The McGovern Centennial Gardens is home to a diverse collection of gardens including an arid garden, a rose garden, a woodland garden, an interactive family garden, and more. You can get a bird’s-eye view of it all by walking the spiral path to the top of a 30-foot mount. Miller Outdoor Theatre www.milleroutdoortheatre.com Since 1923, Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park has been Houston’s venue for free outdoor performances. This remarkable facility with its free high-quality programs is unique in the US. It is the only proscenium theatre in the country that offers an artistically excellent, culturally diverse eight month season of performances totally free of charge to the public. Moody Gardens www.moodygardens.org

Photo courtesy of The Houston Zoo

Aiming to be a leader in the global movement to save wildlife, The Houston Zoo cares for over 6,000 animals, even educating some. Each year, over 2 million guests are enchanted, educated, and inspired as they experience the incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment.

A tropical destination for families and groups. Explore the all new Rainforests of the World along within the Aquarium Pyramid®, the Discovery Museum & the action of the IMAX® 3D, 4D or Ridefilm theaters. Cruise aboard the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat, tee off at the new Moody Gardens Golf Course and relax at the Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa and Convention Center for an ideal getaway.

Sam Houston Race Park is one of Houston’s premier racing, dining and entertainment destinations, located just 15 minutes from Downtown. Sam Houston Race Park have a variety of exciting sports and entertainment in addition to live horse racing as well. The Park features two major racing seasons – Thoroughbred Season (January through March) and Quarter Horse Season (March through May). San Jacinto Monument & Museum www.sanjacinto-museum.org Site of the battle that won Texas independence from Mexico. The world’s largest masonry structure invites visitors to learn about events that shaped Texas history. Space Center Houston www.spacecenter.org Space Center Houston, a $70-million, 183,000 square-foot entertainment and educational complex designed by Disney Imagineering, offers hands-on, space-related experiences to visitors. In addition to a full-size reproduction of the space shuttle, guests can use computer trainers to perform operations similar to the ones the astronauts used to launch a satellite or land a shuttle. NASA scientists and astronauts give briefings about current activities, visitors observe scientists and mission specialists at work and in training via live video hookups. The theaters, including an IMAX screen, feature

Port of Houston Boat Tour 713-670-2416 The Port of Houston offers free, 90-minute round-trip, educational cruises along the Houston Ship Channel. Embarking from the port’s Sam Houston Landing, visiting

space flight films. Exhibits include thousands of space artifacts, the Skylab space station and the largest collection of moon rocks on display anywhere on earth. A 60-minute tram tour of the JSC complex is another source of entertainment and education for JSC guests. 281-244-2105

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

ARTS, CULTURE s n o i t c a r t t &A

The theater district is an impressive cultural and entertainment center; features nine world renowned performing arts organizations, and many smaller ones, in four venues – Jones Hall, Wortham Theater Center, Alley Theatre and Hobby Center for the Performing Arts.

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T HE AT E R DIS TR IC T Alley Theatre 615 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.alleytheatre.org One of America’s leading not-for-profit theatres calls the Houston Theater District Home – The Alley Theatre. The Alley Theatre is nationally recognized for their performing arts company lead by Artistic Director Gregory Boyd and Managing Director Dean R. Gladden. Specializing in productions of the classics, modern plays and premieres, The Alley Theatre produces more performances than all other performing arts organizations in the Houston Theater District. Hobby Center for the Performing Arts 800 Bagby St., Ste. 300 Houston, 77002 www.thehobbycenter.org The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts brings first-class entertainment and cultural enjoyment to Houstonians by way of the generosity of their donors. This arts complex is home to the Theatre Under The Stars (TUTS), and the Houston Broadway Series. Houston Grand Opera 510 Preston St., Houston, 77002 www.houstongrandopera.org Adding to Houston’s rich cultural environment, Houston Grand Opera entertains with their innovative programs, community events and educational projects. Houston Grand Opera has a solid reputation for commissioning and producing new works, including 56 world premieres and seven American premieres since 1973. Stop in and visit and see why Houston Grand Opera has toured extensively, including trips to Europe and Asia, and

is the only opera company to have won a Tony, two Grammy awards, and two Emmy awards. Houston Symphony 615 Louisiana, St., Ste. 102, Houston, 77002 www.houstonsymphony.org The Houston Symphony’s mission is to “inspire and engage a large diverse audience in Greater Houston and beyond through exceptional orchestral and non-orchestral performances, educational programs and community activities.” By 2025, the Houston Symphony aims to be one of America’s most relevant and accessible top-ten orchestras. Jones Hall 615 Louisiana St., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Jones Hall is a monument to the memory of Jesse Holman Jones, an eminent figure in Houston during the first half of the 20th Century. Today, Jones Hall is home to the Houston Symphony and the Society for the Performing Arts. More than 400,000 visitors attend some 250 events annually. Main Street Theater 2450 Times Square Blvd., Houston 77005 333 S. Jensen, Houston, 77003 www.mainstreettheater.com Founded in 1975 and has been opening doors for locals of all ages to engage in the performing arts. They offer classes for children and adults and hold performances by both local authors and established writers. Stages Repertory Theatre 3021 Allen Pkwy. Ste. 101, Houston, 77019 www.stagestheatre.com

Stages Theatre is one of only two theatres in the region that offers year-round employment for actors, directors and additional staff. Stages contributes much to the Houston community, including the availability of thrilling live performances. The Theatre produces daring and innovative plays focusing on new off-Broadway hits and world premieres. Society for FINE the Performing Arts www.spahouston.org The Society for the Performing Arts is the largest nonprofit presenting organization of its kind in the entire Southwest region. SPA is renowned for delivering to Houston internationally acclaimed artists from the entire performing arts spectrum, and has been doing so for over 50 years. Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) 800 Bagby, Ste. 200, Houston, TX 77002 www.tuts.com A non-profit based in Houston, Texas, Theatre Under the Stars (TUTS) offers a world –class musical theatre experience that ranges from full-scale Broadway productions to educational initiatives that extend beyond the stage and into the community. TUTS is equipped for actors and aficionados of all ages and abilities. Wortham Theater Center 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 www.houstonfirsttheaters.com Houston’s largest performing arts complex, is home to the Houston Ballet and Houston Grand Opera and is partnered with Da Camera of Houston and Mercury the Orchestra Redefined.Featuring two theaters, the Alice and George Brown Theater and the Lillie and Roy Cullen Theater. Since its opening in 1987, Wortham has entertained more than 8 million people.

HOUSTON BALLET 501 Texas Ave., Houston, 77002 • www.houstonballet.org The Houston Ballet is a classically trained company with diverse repertory whose range includes the classics are well as contemporary works. This company attracts the world’s best dancers and choreographers. The Houston Ballet also has a world class Academy whose instruction levels vary from professional dancer to non-professional dancers. HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

L E I S U R E & R E C R E AT I O N

M U S E U M D I S TR IC T The Art Car Museum 140 Heights Blvd., Houston, 77007 www.artcarmuseum.com Otherwise known as the “Garage Mahal”, The Art Car Museum is dedicated to contemporary art. It is an exhibition forum for local, national and international arts with an emphasis on art cars, other fine arts and artists that rarely, if ever, are acknowledged by other cultural institutions. Most popular to Houstonians is the annual Art Car Parade. Buffalo Soldiers National Museum 3816 Caroline St., Houston, TX 77004 www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum (BSNM) is proud to educate the public and preserve and promote the history, tradition and outstanding contributions of America’s Buffalo Soldiers from the Revolutionary War to the present. Here, you can find workshops, youth outreach programs and exhibits about the history of the Buffalo Soldiers and their service.

anyone bored. For nearly 30 years, the place

The

for families to play, laugh, learn and grow.

dedicated to educating people about the Jews and other innocent victims and honoring the survivors’ legacy. The Holo-

The

Contemporary

Arts

Museum

caust Museum Houston has a permanent of

Houston is an institution dedicated to presenting the best and most exciting international, national and regional art. Patrons of every age will appreciate the collections of work and dynamic exhibitions on display. CAMH also offers special programs and educational opportunities. Admission is Free.

exhibition called “Bearing Witness: A Community Remembers,” as well as other pieces of history. The Menil Collection 1533 Sul Ross St., Houston, TX 77006 www.menil.org The Menil Collection is an art museum that houses both permanent collection and welcomes special exhibitions. Making art accessible to all is vital to their mission, so

The Health Museum 1515 Hermann Dr., Houston, 77004 www.thehealthmuseum.org

no admission fee is charged and all public programs are free. They hope to educate

The Health Museum is Houston’s most interactive science learning center and a member institution of the world-renowned Texas Medical Center. The Health Museum is the most visited health museum of its kind

The Houston Museum of Natural Science 5555 Hermann Park Dr., Houston, 77030 www.hmns.org

dren’s Museum of Houston will not leave

5216 Montrose Blvd., Houston, 77006 www.camh.org

A duck pond, playhouse, grocery store,

fun-filled hands on experience at the Chil-

Houston

Holocaust, remembering the 6 million

in the country.

infant play area are all under one roof. The

Museum

Contemporary Arts Museum Houston

Children’s Museum of Houston 1500 Binz St., Houston, TX 77004 www.cmhouston.org

Mexican village, puppet show and an

Holocaust

Popular exhibits include:

DeBakey Cell Lab, Amazing Body Pavilion and the McGovern 4D Theater.

and inspire by being readily accessible to future generations. The Museum of Arts, Houston (MFAH) 1001 Bissonnet, Houston, 77005 www.mfah.org The Museum of

Fine Arts, Houston

presents its exceptional exhibitions and installations to Houston residents and visitors alike.

The Museum has numerous

collections that fill the galleries year-round embracing every era of history from across the globe. Make time to visit the Bayou

As one of the most heavily attended

Bend Collection not too far away. From

museums

the

2015 to 2019 the campus of the Museum

Houston Museum of Natural Science

of Fine Arts, Houston will transform into a

(HMNS) seeks to enhance knowledge

magnificent two new buildings.

the

United

States,

and delight in natural science and related subjects. It houses the Burke Baker Planetarium, Wortham GIANT Screen Theatre, Cockrell Butterfly Center and a fascinating variety of permanent exhibit areas that

Blaffer Art Museum University of Houston - 120 Fine Arts Bldg. Houston, 77204 www.blafferartmuseum.org

examine astronomy, space science, Native

Blaffer Art Museum helps the community

American culture, paleontology, energy,

to engage in contemporary art through exhi-

chemistry, gems and minerals, Texas wild-

bitions, publications and public programs.

life and more.

This art museum is free, and open to the

Holocaust Museum Houston 5401 Caroline St., Houston, 77004 www.hmh.org Photos Courtesy of Children’s Museum

100 CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

public in an effort to promote participation in the arts. Blaffer Art Museum is also the gateway between the University of Houston and the City of Houston.

SPORTS & GOLF

Central & West Houston offers a wide variety of sports and recreational activities to please everyone: couch potatoes, weekend warriors, full-on athletes and die-hard fans love the sports scenes. With year-round mild temperatures, getting up and getting out has become a way of life. Photo Courtesy of The Houston Astros 102 CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ISSUE 1

SPECTATOR SPORTS Major events in Houston require tens of thousands of volunteers who take on a variety of jobs and responsibilities to make the event Houston Proud. More than 33,000 individuals serving on over 100 committees form the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo volunteer corps, giving more than 2.1 million total hours. The biggest volunteer program in Super Bowl history took place in Houston in 2017, where 10,000 volunteers assisted over a million visitors to the city for Super Bowl LI. The Houston Astros www.astros.com

Photos Courtesy of the Houston Texans

Part of the West Division of Major League Baseball’s American League, the Houston Astros are on a roll. Currently the winningest

80 times over the course of the season.

team in baseball, the team and its fans are

Fans enjoy gourmet hot dogs, pork sliders,

having a lot of fun. Playing in Minute Maid

tex-mex fare and many other delectable

Park, one of the country’s few stadiums

choices while enjoying the game. Around

with a retractable roof, the team serves up

the park, many restaurants, clubs and music

entertaining baseball action at home about

venues hop, especially on game day.

The Houston Dynamo www.houstondynamo.com Founded in 2005, the Dynamo is Houston’s Major League Soccer Team. The team name is reflective, in part, of Houston:

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an energetic, hard-working, risk-taking kind of town. 2006 and 2007 MLS Champions, fans have lots to cheer about as this team continues to rank well both at home and internationally. The Dynamo play in BBVA Compass Stadium, an architecturally acclaimed venue, located east of downtown

launched the Rockets back into competitive contention.

GOLF Winters in Houston are mild and temperate,

The Houston Texans

with the average high in January (the coldest

www.houstontexans.com

month) at 62.9°F and the average low at

Football is huge in Texas and the Texans are huge in Houston. In their 16th season, this NFL professional

The Houston Rockets www.houstonrockets.com

team are the 2011, 2012 and 2015 AFC

The Houston Rockets are the city’s professional National Basketball Association team playing in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference. Two-time world basketball champions, the Rockets are regular challengers in playoff action and always provide exciting end-to-end action in the Toyota Center. Many star players have passed through the team’s roster over its almost-fifty-year history and now James Hardin and the rest have

have put together an exciting roster that

South Division Champions. Head coach Bill O’Brien and owner Bob McNair includes fan favorites, like J.J. Watt, and new up-and-comers, like Deshaun

43.2°F. There are over 200 days of sunshine, so Houston is a golfer’s paradise. And there are plenty of places to play in West Houston. A wide range of municipal, public, or private courses, as well as country clubs offer varying terrain and challenges to suit every golfer’s taste. Here, you’ll find stunning courses designed by golf legends

Watson.

such as Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Gary

Sunday football is celebrated in NRG

sionals grip it and rip it at the nearby Shell

stadium cheering on the team, tailgating

Houston Open.

Player and Tom Fazio. Or watch the profes-

with friends in the parking lot before and after the game, at many sports bars around

In addition, golf lessons, clinics, PGA

town, or in front of your own television.

professionals and First Tee Programs are

Go Texans!

offered throughout the greater Houston area.

GOLF COURSES PUBLIC Bear Creek Golf Course

281-859-8188

bearcreekgolfworld.com

The Golf Club at Cinco Ranch

281-395-4653

cincoranch.com

Hermann Park Golf Course

713-526-0077

hermannparkgc.com

Memorial Park Golf Course

713-862-4033

houstonmunicipalgolf.org

Pine Crest Golf Club

713-462-4914

pinecresthouston.com

River Ridge Golf Club

800-553-7517

riverridgegolfclub.com

Sharpstown Park Golf Course

713-988-2099

houstonmunicipalgolf.org

The Club At Falcon Point

281-392-7888

falconpoint.com

Black Hawk County Club

281-494-4244

bhawkcc.com

Meadowbrook Farms

281-693-4653

meadowbrookfarmsgolfclub.com

Pine Forest Country Club

281-463-0900

pfcc.com

Royal Oaks Country Club

281-899-3207

royaloakscc.com

Westwood Golf Club

713-774-3011

wwgolfclub.com

Weston Lakes Country Club

281-346-1412

westonlakes.net

Willow Fork Country Club

281-579-6262

willowforkclub.com

Weston Lakes Country Club

281-346-1228

westonlakes.net

PRIVATE

104 CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

Visit us today at

HOUSTONNEWCOMERGUIDES.COM

105

CALENDAR of EVENTS

Photos courtesy of Visit Houston Texas

HOUSTON AREA EVENTS YOU WILL NOT WANT TO MISS

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JANUARY Chevron Houston Marathon Established in 1972, the Houston Marathon Committee, Inc. (HMC), a Running USA Founding Member, annually organizes the nation’s premier winter marathon, half-marathon and 5K. Over 300,000 participants, volunteers and spectators make Chevron Houston Marathon Race Day the largest single-day sporting event in Houston. www.HoustonMarathon.com Annual MLK Youth Parade The MLK Youth Parade will kick-off the MLK Holiday weekend of events. The parade will be held in Houston’s Midtown, originating on San Jacinto Street & Elgin Street beginning at 12 Noon (CST) and will feature more than 100 performing groups from across the nation including 15 award winning marching bands. www.mlkgrandeparade.org

FE B R U A R Y Mardi Gras Galveston Island The Island’s Mardi Gras celebration, is expected to draw more than 300,000 attendees for 29 live concerts, 23 parades, 22 balcony parties and five elegant masked balls. And, this island-style Mardi Gras has plenty of personality: from the classic revelry found in the heart of Galveston’s

historic downtown district – where the bulk of festivities take place – to electronic dance parties and family friendly events and parades, Mardi Gras! Galveston offers excitement everyone can enjoy. www. galveston.com/mardigras Texas Home & Garden Show Houstons’ Premier “One Stop Shopping Opportunity” for all your home & garden needs. From Windows and Doors to Ceilings and Floors over 700 experts, products, services and ideas all under one roof. Attractions, Vacation, Leisure & Outdoor Attractions, Green Energy products, Home Décor, Building Products, Kitchens, Bath & More, Outdoor Living, Pools, Spas, Remodelers, How-to-Workshops, The Texas Home & Garden Show will be held at NRG Center Hall A. www.texashomeandgarden.com

M ARCH World’s Champion Bar-B-Que Cookoff You won’t want to miss the biggest pre-party to the world’s largest livestock show and rodeo. More than 250 teams led by barbecue aficionados will compete in a traditional Texas cook-off. While most team tents are invitation-only, visitors can enjoy the public venues including the Miller Lite Garden, Rockin’ Bar-B-Que Saloon and the Chuck Wagon, where you

receive a complimentary chopped beef sandwich plate. Come enjoy three days of cooking, competition, eating and dancing! www.rodeohouston.com Houston Livestock Show And Rodeo™ The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™ was organized for charitable, educational and scientific purposes to encourage and promote the breeding, raising and marketing of better livestock and farm products at public fairs and to promote and maintain research and educational functions within the livestock industry. It is the general policy of the Show to utilize, in the fiscal year subsequent to which it is earned, the excess of its revenue over expenses for the furtherance of its exempt purpose, including the granting and/or funding of scholarships, educational endowments, agricultural research projects and other similar programs and the funding of related capital additions and improvements www.rodeohouston.com The Azalea Trail The Azalea Trail is a promenade through some of Houston’s most glamorous homes and gardens. Organized by the River Oaks Garden Club, it is held each March when the showy purple, pink, white or yellow Azaleas are at their most spectacular. www.riveroakgc.org

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Photos courtesy of Houston Zoo

4th of July Celebration

APRIL Mcdonald’s Houston Children’s Festival This event is the largest children’s festival in the United States and has been selected as “one of the world’s 300 unmissable events” by Frommer’s Travel Guides. There are 5 stages, 9 big family adventure zones and over 300 activities. All proceeds benefit Child Advocates and the abused and neglected children they serve. www.houstonchildrensfestival.com The Art Car Parade The Art Car Parade is the highlight of a three-day celebration of the drive to create: Art Car Weekend. Held each spring, the parade attracts over 250 ingenious entries and more than 250,000 spectators. It is sponsored by the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art. www.thehoustonartcarparade.com Crawfish & Music Festival The Annual Texas Crawfish & Music Festival has taken the friendly, relaxed fun and community feel of Old Town Spring and served it up big, with hot, fresh Crawfish, along with the best of Cajun dishes and classic festival fare. www.texascrawfishfestival.com

Nature Fest 12,000 attendees and many wild animals fill Oak Meadow Park at Bridgeland in April 2016 for the ninth Nature Fest, an annual event that brings attention to the award-winning master planned community’s commitment to the environment and ecosystem. www.bridgeland.com

M AY Cinco De Mayo Block Party on Main Street Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at five Main Street bars in Midtown. The party at Capitol Bar will expand into the parking lot, and entertainment and revelry will spread to Leon’s Lounge, Mongoose versus Cobra, Traffic Lounge and Cle Day & Nightclub.

JUNE Free Press Summer Fest Presented by Free Press Houston, Summer Fest is an annual 2-day music festival held at Buffalo Bayou’s Eleanor Tinsley Park. It features dozens of performances on 5 different stages, as well as fireworks, interactive art installations, music workshops and some of the best of today’s local and national musicians. www.fpsf.com

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JULY Freedom Over Texas Freedom Over Texas is the Mayor’s Official Fourth of July Holiday Event. Held on the banks of Buffalo Bayou, it features multiple stages of nationally recognized and local recording artists, family-friendly activities, and of course, unrivaled pyrotechnic artistry set to music. www.houstontx.gov/july4/ City Of Katy Freedom Celebration This collaborative effort will showcase a day filled with activities provided by the Katy Fire Department, Katy Heritage Society and Heritage Park, VFW Lodge and Park, and Katy Parks and Recreation. Attractions will include vehicle extrications, visits from U.S. Army and Marine representatives, a firehouse tour, water hose playtime, bounce houses, petting zoo and free hotdogs at the Fire Station, plus a delicious BBQ plate lunch for sale and both live and silent auctions all benefitting the VFW lodge. www.cityofkaty.com

A UGUST Katy Summer Nights Enjoy family-friendly movies in the park at Katy City Park from 8pm to 11pm, or

whenever the movie ends. www.cityofkaty.com Houston International Jazz Fest This will be the 27th anniversary of the Houston International Jazz Festival, which traditionally showcases Jazz, Rhythm and Blues, Soul and Latin Fusion. 15 to 25 artists are featured. www.jazzeducation.org

S E PT EM BE R Taste Of The World Houston Food And Wine Festival The Houston World Food & Wine Festival celebrates food, drink, music and dance from around the world. The festival has a globe-trotting theme that invites attendees to try out a new variety of food and arts and enjoy an international experience. It provides a feast for the senses and reflects the multicultural diversity of Houston. Texas Renaissance Festival Plantersville - Based on travel-worthiness, chance to broaden horizons and the ability to introduce people to try new things and connect with others, the Texas Renaissance Festival has been voted the best cultural festival in the country by USA Today and 10Best. Enjoy magicians, jugglers, minstrels, troubadours, comedians, food, arts and crafts that all celebrate life in the 16th Century. “When people step through the Royal Gates into the Texas Renaissance Festival, they are transported not only to another time, but to another world,” says Terre Albert, the festival’s general manager. www.texasrenfest.com

Katy Rice Harvest Festival Considered one of Greater Houston’s top festivals, the annual Katy Rice Harvest Festival celebrates the area’s historic farming roots with two days of family fun, including two stages with continuous live entertainment,crafts, food booths and more, all found in Historic Downtown Katy. www.riceharvestfestival.org

Nutcracker Market The Houston Ballet’smajor fundraiser, the Nutcracker Market is a shopping wonderland. This year’s market will feature more than 325 national and international merchants carefully selected for their unique offerings. Look for gourmet food, home décor, garden accessories, clothing, novelties and the perfect gift. www.houstonballet.org

Red Barn Festival Enjoy food, drinks, music and fun at this year’s Red Barn Festival in Red Potato Market in Simonton. Headliners are George Ducas and Jesse Raub Jr. www.fulshearareachamber.com

H-E-B Holiday Parade The Annual H-E-B Thanksgiving Day Parade will welcome the holiday season by celebrating all things Houston, including a salute to the world-acclaimed Texas Medical Center. The Fun begins at 9am when the downtown streets come alive with zesty marching bands, imaginative floats and colorful balloons. Bring the family.

N O V EMB ER Katy Community Camp Out The event will start on Friday at 4pm through Saturday at 10am. Come out to VFW Park and set up your campsite with us! Enjoy a hot dog dinner, camp fire and s’mores! Get comfortable with your family under the stars to enjoy an outdoor movie before cuddling up for the night in your tents. Saturday morning we will be serving a pancake breakfast before you head out to enjoy the rest of your weekend. There is no fee, but you must register in advance. www.cityofkaty.com

DECEMB ER Katy Old Fashioned Christmas Festival This event is located in Historic Downtown Katy in December and is graciously hosted by Katy Market Day. This special Christmas market includes feature produce, arts and crafts, antiques, jewelry, gifts, clothes and homemade items. While you are in town be sure to check out their great boutiques and shops. www.katymarketday.com

O C T O BE R The Original Greek Festival Join in the celebration at the Original Greek Festival held at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Part of the proceeds are donated to various Houston area charities – such as: Children’s Assessment Center, Houston Area Women’s Center, Star of Hope Mission and many more. www.greekfestival.org

Photo courtesy of Texas Renaissance Festival

Photo by Lucas Allmann from Pexels

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Delicious WEST HOUSTON

DINING SCENE West Houston spans from Fulshear to the Galleria, so finding a scrumptious place to dine will not leave anyone feeling disappointed. The choices are endless: BBQ, Tex-Mex, Greek, Korean – you name it, and it’s a guarantee that the West Houston area will have it covered.

Photo Courtesy of Vicky Tran from Pexels

110 CENTRAL | WEST HOUSTON NEWCOMER GUIDE 2019 – ISSUE 1

Brenner’s Steak House 10911 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77079 www.brennerssteakhouse.com

Ray’s Gourmet Country 8502 FM 359, Fulshear, 77441 www.raysgrill.com

SHOPPING

Dish Society 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. Katy, 77494 www.dishsociety.com

Masraff’s 1753 Post Oak Blvd. Houston, 77056 www.masraffs.com

CITYCENTRE

Doux Cafe 865 Dairy Ashford Rd., Houston, TX 77079 www.douxcafe.net

Local Foods 5740 San Felipe St. Houston, 77057 www.houstonlocalfoods.com

Straits 800 Sorella Ct #940, Houston, TX 77024 www.straitsrestaurants.com Peli Peli 5085 Westheimer Rd., Ste B2515, Houston, 77056 www.pelipeli.com The Devine Affair 14021 Memorial Dr., Houston, TX 77079 www.thedevineaffair.com The Union Kitchen Memorial 12538 Memorial Dr. Houston, 77024 www.theunionkitchen.com Lupe Tortilla 318 Stafford St., Houston, TX 77079 9313-A Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77024 www.lupetortilla.com Empire Turkish Grill 12448 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77024 www.empireturkishgrill.com Churrascos Memorial City 947 Gessner Rd., B290, Houston, 77024 www.churrascos.com

Pizaro’s Pizza 14028 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77079 www.pizarospizza.com

Forest West Shopping Center 5375 Antoine Dr Houston, TX 77091

Georgia’s Market Memorial Village 9201 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77024 www.georgiasmarket.com

www.galleriahouston.com

5058 Westheimer Rd. Houston, 77056

Highland Village 4055 Westheimer Rd.

Vine Wine Room 12420 Memorial Drive, Houston, 77024 www.vinewineroom.com

Houston, TX 77027

The Tasting Room 818 Town and Country Blvd. #100 Houston, 77024 www.tastingroomwines.com

Katy, TX 77494

CRU 2800 Kirby Dr. B-130, Houston, 77098 www.cruwinebar.com

23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd.

The Cellar Door 829 S. Mason Rd. Suite 280 Katy, 77450 www.thecellardoorwinebarkatytx.com

Jonathan’s the Rub 9061 Gaylord Dr, Houston, TX 77024 www.jonathanstherub.com

Another Round Wine Bar 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. D Katy, 77494 www.anotherroundkaty.com

Sushi Hana Japanese Kitchen 1638 S. Mason Rd. Katy, 77450 www.sushihanakaty.com

www.citycentrehouston.com

The Galleria Houston

Memorial Wine Cellar 7951 Katy Freeway, Houston, 77024 www.memorialwinecellar.com

Bistro Provence 13616 Memorial Drive, Houston,TX,77084 www.bistroprovence.us

Houston, 77024

Sushi Jin 14670 Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77079 www.sushijin.us

Carmelo’s Restaurant Italiano 14795 Memorial Drive, Houston, 77079 www.carmelosrestaurant.com

Antonia’s Restaurant 2001 Katy Mills Blvd. Katy, 77494 www.antoniaskaty.us

800 Town and Country Blvd.

1919 Wine & Mixology 2736 Virginia St. Houston, 77098 www.1919wmb.com

Katy Mills Mall 5000 Katy Mills Cir www.katymills.com La Centerra at Cinco Ranch Katy, 77494 www.lacenterra.com River Oaks Shopping Center 1964 W Gray St Houston, TX 77019 www.riveroaksshoppingcenter.com Town & Country Village 12850 Memorial Drive Houston, 77024 www.townandcountryvillage.com Uptown Park 1400 Post Oak Blvd.

Drexel House Eatery & Wine Bar 3974 Westheimer Rd. Houston, 77027 www.drexel-house.com

Houston, TX 77056

Sonoma Wine Bar 2720 Richmond Ave. Houston, 77098 www.sonomahouston.com

2703 Highway 6 S

West Oaks Central Shopping Center Houston, TX 77082 www.shopwestoaksmall.com

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ad index APARTMENTS/HOTELS

HEALTHCARE

AMLI Residential ....................................................... 1

Houston Methodist West Hospital..........Back Cover

Delray Apartment Homes...................................... 13

MD Anderson Cancer Center................................. 3

Hotel Alessandra..................................................... 27 Hotel Sorella............................................................. 31

BUILDERS Lennar Homes...............................Inside Back Cover

EDUCATION Ascension Episcopal School.................................. 53

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENTS Cane Island..................................Inside Front Cover Johnson Development............ Outside Back Cover Kingdom Heights..................................................... 19

REAL ESTATE & RELOCATION SERVICES

The Branch School.................................................. 49

Better Homes and Gardens

British International School of Houston................. 55

Gary Greene Real Estate........................................ 39

Faith West Academy.............................................. 54 Fort Bend Christian Academy............................... 57 Fusion Academy..................................................... 47

Har.com.................................................................... 36 RE/MAX Cinco Ranch, Gayle Bowen.............. 16-17

Grace School.......................................................... 58

RECREATION & ENTERTAINMENT

Houston Christian High School............................... 59

Houston Rockets.................................................... 103

Primsrose Schools.................................................... 51

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island ........................... 101

School of the Woods............................................... 60

Willow Fork Country Club....................................... 37

St. Jerome Catholic School................................... 61 St. John XXIII College Preparatory......................... 63

UTILITIES

University of Houston - Victoria ............................. 65

Consolidated Communications ........................... 77

Yorkshire Academy................................................. 62

My Plates.................................................................. 75

FOOD & BEVERAGE

WORSHIP

Real Ale Brewing Co................................................. 9

BridgePoint Bible Church....................................... 41

San Luis Spirits Distilling Co. LLC............................... 5

The Church of St. John The Divine......................... 71

To learn more, visit www.HoustonNewcomerGuides.com

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Plans and elevations/renderings are artist’s concepts and may contain options or features which are not standard on all models. Features, amenities, floor plans, elevations, square footage and designs vary per plan and community and are subject to changes or substitution without notice. Contact a Lennar or Village Builders new home consultant for detail. Garage sizes may vary from home to home and may not accommodate all vehicles. Stated dimensions and/or square footages are approximate and should not be used as representation of the home’s precise or actual size. Any statement, verbal or written, regarding “under air” or “furnished area” or any other description or modifier for the square footage size of any home is a shorthand description of the manner in which the square footage was estimated and should not be construed to indicate certainty. Models/lifestyle photos do not represent racial or ethnic preference. Copyright 2017 Lennar Corporation. All rights reserved. Lennar, the Lennar logo, Village Builders, the Village Builders logo and Next Gen and the Next Gen logo are registered service marks of Lennar corporation and/or its subsidiaries. 05/2017

HOUSTON METHODIST HOSPITAL IS NO. 1 FOR PATIENT CARE IN TEXAS. Houston Methodist, throughout its long history, has focused on innovation that directly benefits our patients. We are national leaders in the delivery of health care, and others agree. U.S. News & World Report has named Houston Methodist Hospital the No. 1 hospital in Texas every year since the award began. In addition, Houston Methodist is nationally ranked in eight specialties — the most in the state. Houston Methodist directs millions of research dollars into patient care and offers the latest innovations in medical, surgical and diagnostic techniques. We are pressing ahead toward a greater and grander vision, one that positions us to help shape the future of medicine. For a physician referral, visit houstonmethodist.org or call 713.790.3599.

CARDIOLOGY & HEART SURGERY • DIABETES & ENDOCRINOLOGY • GASTROENTEROLOGY & GI SURGERY GERIATRICS • NEPHROLOGY • NEUROLOGY & NEUROSURGERY • ORTHOPEDICS • PULMONOLOGY