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Construction began at the intersection of Ella Boulevard and Grovewood Lane on March 9.
About the project
Funding is being split between Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones and Houston District C council member Abbie Kamin, who allocated $60,000 to the project.
Improvements include:
The intersection has been the subject of concern after many residents raised issues with the number of close calls from people ignoring stop signs, Kamin said.
“These upgrades make sure our children, families and neighbors feel safe every time they use this intersection,” Kamin said. “We’ve had too many close calls, and for years, parents and neighbors pleaded for a solution.”
Some background
In October 2025, Sinclair Elementary School crossing guard Michael Phill went viral online after using his body to block a car that attempted to drive through the intersection as children were crossing. The video shows the car attempting to go around him, and he stands in front of it again. Many parents in the community called him a hero.
On Feb. 10, Phill, whom the community calls Mr. Michael, was honored by Kamin's office at City Council, and the day was declared "Michael Phill Day."
One more thing
In addition to the crossing improvements at Ella and Grovewood, Kamin allocated over $75,000 for safe crossing improvements at 11th Street and Shirkmere Road, as well as 11th Street and Shelterwood Drive.
The entire project is expected to be completed by March 18, weather permitting.
