HTX-KTY: Impact 10/2/2025

Good Morning, Katy & Fulshear!

Top Story

Fort Bend County to add 2 new district courts following legislative approval

Fort Bend County has received two additional district courts from the 89th Texas Legislature to support its growing population nearing 1 million residents.

The details: House Bill 16, signed by Gov. Greg Abbott on Sept. 17 following the second special session, brings the county’s total number of courts to 10, with the last district court added in 2015.

The request was first brought up during the regular legislative session, but Abbott vetoed it after being lumped with other court-related items.

Why it matters: Data from the Office of Court Administration shows the number of criminal, civil and family cases has increased by 30.19% since 2015.

Going forward: The courts will be created Dec. 1, according to bill documents.

Find out more.

Now Open

Black Rock Coffee Bar opens 23rd Houston area location in Katy

Black Rock Coffee Bar, a boutique coffee chain from Oregon, opened its 23rd Greater Houston area location in Katy near the intersection of Franz Road and North Grand Parkway, according to a Sept. 24 news release from the company.

What they offer: The national franchise is known for its premium roasted coffees, teas, smoothies and flavorful energy drinks, such as Blue Lagoon Fuel and Star Burst Fuel, according to the news release.

Notable quote: “Our momentum in Houston has been remarkable, and we’re excited to extend our presence further in Katy,” said Mark Davis, CEO of Black Rock Coffee Bar. “This community’s welcoming spirit perfectly reflects our values, and we look forward to connecting with our new neighbors over great drinks and friendly service.”

1811 W. Grand Parkway N., Katy

Read now.

Trending Now

Target launches first-of-its-kind accessible self-checkout for visually impaired individuals

According to a Sept. 26 press release, Target has launched a first-of-its-kind accessible self-checkout experience designed for guests with disabilities, including those who are blind or have low vision.

The self-checkouts will roll out nationwide beginning this holiday season and in early 2026 as part of Target's ongoing checkout improvements, according to the release.

What to expect: Per the release, the innovation is a guest-first design that primarily supports people who are visually impaired while supporting those with motor disabilities.

The technology works with Target’s existing self-checkout system and includes:

Braille and high-contrast button icons
A headphone jack with adjustable volume controls
Physical navigation buttons and a dedicated information key

Quote of note: "Target's new accessible self-checkout experience is unique not only because it is a first in the industry, but because it was designed through collaboration with the blind, incorporating our technical expertise and lived experience," Mark Riccobono, president of the National Federation of the Blind, said via news release.

Learn more.

Metro News

13 Houston-area haunted houses, ghost tours open ahead of Halloween

Looking for a spine-tingling and spooky activity to get in the Halloween spirit? Check out this guide for haunted houses and ghost tours throughout the Greater Houston area.

Creepy Hollow Haunted House
Multiple themed scary attractions are offered by Creepy Hollow Haunted House. Visit beloved creepy characters as they stalk about the property. General admission includes all three main haunts—”Dark Woods,” “Pitch Black” and “Scare Factory.”

Sept. 26-Oct. 31 (Fridays and Saturdays), 7:30-11:30 p.m.; Oct. 26, 7:30-10 p.m.
$40
12872 Valley Vista Drive, Rosharon

Houston Terror Dome Haunted House
Take your pick of various themed haunted houses to sneak through at the Houston Terror Dome. Attractions include “Soul Sucker” and “Dolly's Doll House.” The business also offers activities such as paintball, a haunted bar, escape rooms and axe throwing.