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Montrose parking study survey extended to Jan. 15

An ongoing parking study by the Montrose Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone has been extended into the new year, as TIRZ officials announced that the survey portal will remain open through Jan. 15. The survey was originally expected to close Dec. 15.

The latest update: According to an email update Dec. 4, more than 1,000 responses have already been submitted. However, to ensure the study captures the full picture of how parking functions in the area, TIRZ officials said they are now seeking additional responses from local businesses, property owners, employers, employees, service providers and customers who regularly visit Montrose, as well as residents.

About the project: The survey asks residents to use an interactive map to gather specific locations where there are concerns about parking, as well as respond to a variety of questions. In addition to gathering feedback, the study includes an inventory of on-street parking and nonresidential off-street parking.

 
On The Business Beat
Moreau Paris relocates within the River Oaks District

The leather goods and handbag store is known for selling vibrant color palettes, printed leathers and functional silhouettes. 

What's new: Founded in 1882 as one of Paris’ four original monogram leather goods houses, Moreau Paris has moved to a new space within the River Oaks District and is now located behind Loro Piana. 

The details:
The new space was designed to reflect Parisian refinement and modern sophistication, while offering a personalized shopping experience, according to a Dec. 5 news release. The boutique celebrated its relocation with a grand opening soiree with fashion insiders, longtime clientele and friends of the brand.

  • 4444 Westheimer Road, Ste. F110, Houston

 
Latest News
Commissioners lift burn ban in unincorporated Harris County

Effective Dec. 5, the Harris County Commissioners Court has lifted a burn ban in unincorporated Harris County, the county fire marshal’s office announced on social media.

Some context: Harris County commissioners previously implemented the burn ban Oct. 16 due to “ongoing dry weather and heightened fire danger,” Community Impact previously reported.

What you need to know: Outdoor burning is still not allowed in many counties across Texas, per the announcement. Additionally, outdoor burning in most cases is illegal in Harris County as it contributes to air pollution, according to Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services, or HCPHES.

However, outdoor burning is permitted in some instances, such as vegetation management, so long as it follows guidelines established by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. 

Before you go: Alternatives to burning include recycling, composting plant waste and mulching wood, according to HCPHES. Report illegal outdoor burning to Harris County at 713-920-2831. 

 
What You May Have Missed
From local Christmas displays to FIFA World Cup updates: 5 trending Houston-area stories

Need to catch up on Community Impact’s coverage from last week? Check out five trending stories in the Greater Houston area from Dec. 1-5.

Activities to do: There are several options to see Christmas lights around the Tomball and Magnolia area, including Magnolia Musical Christmas, Gullo House Christmas Lights and Tomball Methodist Church’s Trail of Lights. 

At a glance: In a Dec. 2 news conference, officials with Airbnb announced that Houston will receive a $1 million investment that will go toward supporting major community initiatives, expanding green infrastructure and increasing youth access to soccer. Airbnb was selected in June to serve as an official partner for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, Community Impact previously reported. 

One more thing: Whataburger officials celebrated a Dec. 1 opening of their new location at 15940 Woodland Hills Drive, Humble. The eatery features a double drive-thru, dining room and digital menu boards, according to a Nov. 28 news release. 

 
CI Texas
What to know before applying for Texas’ education savings accounts next year

The Texas comptroller’s office has released a set of rules to govern the state’s $1 billion education savings account program, or ESAs. Accepted families will receive thousands of dollars in state funds to send their children to a private school or homeschool them.

The overview: Accredited private schools and education vendors can begin applying to join the program as soon as Dec. 9, and applications will open for interested families Feb. 4.

Most families accepted into the program will receive about $10,300 per student, which can be spent on tuition at accredited private prekindergarten or K-12 schools and related expenses. Homeschooled students will receive up to $2,000 per year, while students with disabilities will be eligible for up to $30,000 annually.

Zooming in: Depending on a family’s income, students with disabilities may receive priority acceptance into the ESA program. Families can submit documentation from a physician or the U.S. Social Security Administration to be prioritized, although a detailed evaluation and individualized education plan are required to receive the additional special education funding.

 

Your local team

Cassie Jenkins
Editor

Chloe Mathis
General Manager

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