Corridor improvements will include the reconstruction of the roadway, improved pedestrian and bicycle facilities, and drainage and public utility upgrades, according to a project website. The drainage work will be done to meet design standards based on post-Hurricane Harvey Atlas-14 rainfall data.
Meanwhile, the pedestrian improvements will include new sidewalks, crosswalks, pedestrian lighting and ramps that meet standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Proposals will also take into account the city of Houston Bike Plan, which recommends a dedicated on-street path from Weslayan Street through Midtown to the University of Houston.
The project is part of a broader effort to improve West Alabama between Weslayan in the River Oaks area to Chenevert Street in Midtown. While the Upper Kirby district is tackling the roadway between Buffalo Speedway and Shepherd, the city of Houston and the Midtown Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone will do work elsewhere.
The city of Houston began seeking construction bids in May for a project between Weslayan and Buffalo Speedway, west of the Upper Kirby project.
A project timeline posted to the Upper Kirby website indicates the first phase of construction, covering Buffalo Speedway to Kirby Drive, could start in 2023 and run for 18-24 months. Construction on the second phase—from Kirby to Shepherd—is to be determined, and the timeline for both phases in contingent on city of Houston work on adjacent segments.
The public meeting will take place between 5:30-7 p.m. Aug. 17 at the Upper Kirby District, 3120 Southwest Freeway, Ste. 101, Houston, and an online recording of the meeting will also be available. Learn more about the details at various intersections here.
