Missed something from Community Impact’s coverage last week? Check out six trending stories from the South Houston area from Aug. 24-28.
1. TxDOT proposes 3 reasonable alternatives for southern portion of Hwy. 36A
Officials from the Texas Department of Transportation are requesting public input on three proposed routes for the southern sector of the Hwy. 36A project.
Project documents suggest that the southern portion will run from FM 1994 south of Needville to I-10 west of Katy with the goal of improving north-south mobility and connectivity.
In summer 2025, TxDOT officials presented eight possible options for the southern route. These suggestions attracted more than 4,900 participants and over 680 comments related to environmental resources, farmland and historic preservation. Three reasonable alternatives have since been selected for further consideration.
Learn more from Editor Aubrey Howell.
2. City of Katy enters stage 1 of drought contingency plan
A four-stage contingency plan was formulated as part of the city of Katy’s water conservation initiative to manage drought conditions and water emergencies while the city works to supply residents with clean drinking water that meets state standards, per the city’s official website.
On Aug. 21, Katy officials announced that the city broke ground on stage 1 of this plan.
Take a closer look with General Assignment Reporter Bradley Dountz.
3. New work club set to open third location in Bellaire
Switchyards, a neighborhood work club offering patrons dedicated spaces for quiet work and collaboration, is coming to Bellaire, according to a Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation filing.
The estimated $62,000 construction project is expected to be completed by early September.
See what the buzz is about with City Government Reporter Ariel Worthy.
4. Houston delays vote on ending annexation option with The Woodlands
Houston officials delayed voting on an agreement that would permanently eliminate the possibility of Houston annexing The Woodlands Township at an Aug. 26 Houston City Council meeting.
The amendment would end the long-term Regional Participation Fund payment structure between Houston and The Woodlands, providing for a total of about $27.4 million in payments from The Woodlands Township to the city over the next three years.
In addition to this, the deal would release restrictions on the $22.6 million currently held within the RPF to make those funds available to the city of Houston.
Here’s what else you need to know by City Government Reporter Ariel Worthy.
5. New virtual reality arcade opens in La Porte
Level Zero VR opened its doors in La Porte in mid-June, owner Jurgen Makus confirmed.
Players can experience virtual reality-style escape rooms, shooting games and other activities on-site, as well as book the arcade for designated time slots to host party events. Level Zero VR offers accommodations for both solo visitors and groups up to eight people.
Read the full story by Government Reporter Rachel Leland.
6. New Latin American cuisine opens in Pearland
The Empanada Bar, a bakery-style restaurant specializing in sweet and savory specialty empanadas, celebrated its grand opening in the Pearland area on Aug. 18, officials confirmed.
See more details with Reporter Catherine White.
