GOVERNMENT
The Texas Workforce Commission's phone and online systems have been overwhelmed as measures to slow the spread of the coronavirus continue to have a crippling effect on the economy. (Jack Flagler/Community Impact Newspaper)
More Texans have filed for unemployment in past three weeks than in all of 2019
Texas Central claims the $12 billion construction process would be privately funded, and the train would transport 6 million annual riders by 2029. (Courtesy Texas Central Partners/Community Impact Newspaper)
State legislators request federal officials halt activity on Texas Central's high-speed rail project
The amicus brief is in support of an April 7 lawsuit filed by the Texas Democratic Party seeking legislative action to allow voters who fear exposure to the coronavirus to vote via mail-in ballot. (Courtesy Fotolia)
Harris County Attorney's Office authorized to file amicus brief supporting mail-in ballots amid coronavirus outbreak
Graphic by Ronald Winters/Community Impact Newspaper
Harris County in ‘standoff’ over proposed inmate release to curb coronavirus spread
This collaborative effort, known as H-Force, is meant to bring together resources, technologies and expertise to address the Houston area’s growing needs amid the global pandemic, according to a release from HCC. (Courtesy Fotolia)
Houston Community College forms partnership to address protective gear shortage
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo signed an order April 8 to temporarily close all parks countywide throughout the upcoming Easter weekend, April 10-13, in hopes of discouraging social gatherings. (Hannah Zedaker/Community Impact Newspaper)
Harris County to close parks countywide for Easter weekend, April 10-13
Friendswood City Council held a meeting on April 6. (Community Impact Staff)
Friendswood City Council discusses city's coronavirus response at meeting
Houston fiscal year 2020-21 budget workshops run from April 7 through May 20. (Courtesy Fotolia)
Harris County launches Small Business Economic Assistance Loan Program, begins process of creating COVID-19 relief fund
Sheldon State Park, along with other state parks across Texas, will temporarily close at 5 p.m. April 7. (Courtesy Texas Parks and Wildlife Department)
State parks, historic sites in the Greater Houston area close under Gov. Greg Abbott's order
VIDEO: Texas Tribune interview with Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar about the coronavirus's effects on the state economy
Hurricane Harvey brought historic flooding to Pearland, Friendswood and Brookside Village, as documented by residents of the area.
Texas General Land Office approves Harvey funds for home buyouts in Pearland
The county is asking residents to stay home if they are sick and to practice social distancing. (Courtesy Adobe)
UPDATED: Coronavirus cases in Brazoria County still increasing, reach over 150
NRG Stadium
Construction underway for coronavirus medical shelter at NRG Stadium
Essential workers struggling to find child care amid coronavirus shutdowns can now find a provider and potentially receive financial assistance through a new Southeast Texas database. (Courtesy Pexels)
Essential workers in Southeast Texas can now search for child care, receive financial assistance
Friendswood City Council will hold a meeting on April 6. (Community Impact Staff)
Here are 3 items to look for at the April 6 Friendswood City Council meeting