The Memorial Heights Redevelopment Authority (MHRA) is pleased to announce that it has been awarded $850,000 in federal grant appropriations for safe sidewalk improvements to provide safer connections and improved access for the community, including students and children.
The funding has been awarded through U.S. Representative Lizzie Fletcher of Texas’ 7th District as part of a Community Project Funding (CPF) request for FY 2024. This grant will provide the funding necessary to improve sections of sidewalk that are missing, in poor condition, or are undersized.
The grant funds will be allocated to the construction contract associated with the project. The associated design, survey, environmental, and grant management work will be funded locally by MHRA.
In a recent sidewalk evaluation, Memorial Heights Redevelopment Authority found that almost 25% of sidewalks in and adjacent to the district boundaries were in poor or non-existent condition, and over 40% of sidewalks did not meet current standards for width.
The proposed project aims to increase connectivity and access for all users to transit stops, schools, and major activity centers in the rapidly growing and densifying Heights neighborhood of Houston. MHRA Board Chair Ann Lents said, “We are very grateful for the Congresswoman’s efforts in delivering these funds. The initiative to provide safe and continuous sidewalk access in the area will improve quality of life in the community and have mobility, health, and economic benefits.”
The proposed project will also improve access to transit; METRO bus routes in this area connect to essential services and key regional destinations, including Downtown and Uptown Houston. The project will leverage connections to the nearby Shepherd/Durham Major Investment Project (funded via a BUILD grant) and existing shared-use paths and trails, such as the MKT and White Oak Bayou Trails.
The Memorial Heights Redevelopment Authority will proceed with design and construction promptly after the City of Houston gives its authority to use grant funds, ensuring that the community benefits from this project are realized as soon as possible.
For weekly construction updates, visit www.shepherddurham.com.
