Artificial intelligence—technology that gives computers the ability to mimic human cognitive function—is being incorporated into many aspects of daily life, including for local governments and for business in The Woodlands area.
Current situation: William Pham, IT director for The Woodlands Township, said The Woodlands is still in the early stages of using AI for tasks such as streamlining workflow, but its applications are limited because government platforms are restricted by the Department of Information Resources on which AI platforms they connect to.

The funding source: Pham said the township invested $32,147 in AI usage in fiscal year 2025-26. However, Montgomery County has no budget currently planned for AI, IT Director Bobby Powell said.

Public input: Houston area residents surveyed by the Kinder Institute for Urban Research in 2024 said they believe AI will have the biggest impact in areas such as business, education and health services, which are among The Woodlands area’s top employers, according to The Woodlands Area Economic Development Partnership.

Founded by a group of women in St. Louis, Missouri, in 2017, the skincare company has expanded with over 20 locations nationwide and launched its first Houston area location this May in The Woodlands with franchisees Leslie Blix and Nick Doneff.

What they offer: Along with a staff of five estheticians, The Only Facial offers two facial options, including a teen facial focusing on problematic skin, and the company’s signature facial consisting of several steps customized to each unique skin type and concern. 

Quote of note: “We want our estheticians' goals to align with the customers' and clients' goals, not for their sales goals, " Blix said. “We just want it to be a ‘wow,’ relaxing experience.”

• 2520 Research Forest Drive, Ste. 400, The Woodlands

This article is based on a Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation filing. Community Impact will update this story when more information is available.

Automotive service and tire company, Mavis Tires & Brakes is opening a new location in Spring on Augusta Pines Drive, per a Texas Department of Licensing and Registration filing.

At a glance: Originally opened as a bike repair stand in New York in 1949, Mavis Tires & Brakes rebranded in 1972 and now has more than 3,500 owned and franchise locations, per the website. Offering tire and automotive services, Mavis Tires & Brakes provide tire repairs, rotations, alignment, oil changes, brake checks and more, according to the website.

• Opening TBD
• 8111 Augusta Pines Drive, Spring