The Fort Bend Regional Partnership, formerly known as the Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, has announced its expanded initiative in economic development as the county is expected to see its population nearly double in the next 20 to 25 years, according to a Feb. 26 news release.

In a nutshell: At the center of the economic initiatives is the organization's upcoming Fort Bend 2050 Report, a comprehensive data-driven analysis to explore critical issues the county will face during the expected accelerated growth, per the release.

Officials said the report will serve as a roadmap for public and private stakeholders evaluating key elements, including:

• Infrastructure
• Workforce alignment
• Economic development capacity
• Education
• Public services
• Quality-of-life indicators

Family-owned Imperial Tattoo Company has relocated to a new location in Sugar Land, officials confirmed.

Whey they offer: The tattoo shop, which opened in 2011, offers appointment-only service by artists Tony and Sarah Wayne, according to its website. 

• 16742 Southwest Freeway, Ste. 13, Sugar Land

Since 1932, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has brought cowboys and cowgirls, country music performers, farmers and Texas youth together. Each year, the Rodeo hosts several diverse events, including auctions, cookoffs and concerts, all with the goal of promoting Western heritage. 

By the numbers: Here’s a glimpse of what the report stated:

• $326 million of direct economic impact was generated in the Greater Houston area
• $597 million of total economic activity was produced
• $630 million of total educational support has been given since 1932

Measuring the impact: Additionally, the Rodeo continues to be one of the largest scholarship and educational contributors in the country, per the report, with more than $14 million given in scholarships. 

Going forward: As for 2026 and the upcoming years, Pat Mann Phillips, chairman of the board of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, said she is focused on keeping the Rodeo grounded in its roots and in remembrance of the trailblazers who shaped it into what it is today.