Bohac Highlights Quality of Life Improvements in Oak Forest, Garden Oaks and Surrounding Communities
HOUSTON–New public and private investments are continuing to drive quality of life improvements in the Oak Forest and Garden Oaks communities.
“There are so many great things going on in the community that it’s hard not to notice them. Coming from both the public and private sectors, these improvements will continue to add to our overall quality of life and enjoyment,” said state Rep. Dwayne Bohac.
Shops at Oak Forest
A new shopping center under construction at the intersection of West 43rd Street and Ella Boulevard, adjacent to the Kroger store, will soon open and offer new, exciting shopping and dining.
The center, which will be called The Shops at Oak Forest, will include a Starbucks and Wachovia Bank. Discussions are currently under way to bring several small restaurants, a day spa, wine tasting room and clothing boutique to residents, according to the center’s leasing company, Page Partners.
“This is a significant development for Oak Forest, Garden Oaks, Shepherd Park Plaza and surrounding communities,” Bohac said. “This kind of private investment shows that the Oak Forest community is an ideal area in Houston in which to live, work and raise a family.”
The shopping center, located next to the third largest Kroger in the Houston area, was developed by Wellington Development Company.
Brickhouse Gully Detention Basin
Construction continues on the 16-acre Brickhouse Gully stormwater detention basin located on the west side of Highway 290 between West 43rd and West 34th streets. The Harris County Flood Control District expects the project to be completed in approximately 10 months.
The basin is designed to reduce flooding primarily in the flood-prone Mangum Manor subdivision during a 10-year flood, a 25-year flood and floods of greater frequency. During heavy rains, the basin will safely store stormwater that might otherwise flood homes and businesses. Water will be released safely back into the channel at a controlled flow rate.
“If you live in Mangum Manor or in parts of Oak Forest, this project is a step toward keeping water carried by Brickhouse Gully from reaching homes and businesses, as it did during Tropical Storm Allison and during other heavy rains,” Bohac said. “Civic leaders and other stakeholders have been working hard on this project, and we are now seeing positive, exciting results.”
The Harris County Flood Control District was created by the Texas Legislature in 1937 and is governed by Harris County Commissioners Court.
Public Parks
Under the leadership of District A City Councilmember Toni Lawrence, the city of Houston continues to improve parks in the greater Oak Forest community as part of its Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) to update public facilities and infrastructure.
“I am very pleased that the city is making this much-needed investment in our community. Parks are treasures, especially in urban settings,” Bohac said. “In 2008, the city will continue its effort to improve a number of parks in the district.”
The city’s 2008 plan includes $1.2 million for improvements to T.C. Jester Park, including expanded parking and enhanced lighting for safety. The city also will address accessibility and mechanical issues at the park’s swimming pool. An additional $1.14 million will be used to improve Shepherd Park, Schwartz Park and Cole Creek Park.
In 2007, Mangum Manor Park received $287,000 for new playground equipment, an asphalt walking/jogging trail, grading and drainage improvements, landscaping and irrigation, security lights and plaza and picnic shelter improvements. Forest West Park was allotted $87,000 to add a walking/jogging trail, improve drainage and re-sod infields.
“Having been born and raised in Oak Forest, it’s exciting to see the rejuvenation of this historic community,” Bohac said. “Its geographic location, large trees and lots and sense of community make it a great area. Our future looks bright.”