Houston officials have started to lay the foundation to address the city’s longstanding stray animal crisis and the constant overcrowding at the BARC Animal Shelter that has led to nearly 4,000 animals being euthanized per year.

Current situation: Monthly and annual reports conducted by the animal shelter show that over 3,500 animals were euthanized in 2024 and 2025, reaching new heights after numbers were previously hovering around the 2,000-2,500 mark.

Deputy Shelter Director Cory Stottlemyer said BARC’s 2025 data reflects a combination of factors that animal shelters across the country are experiencing, including continued economic pressures, the city’s rapid population growth and an increase in pet owners seeking support when the time and cost of care have become more challenging.

BARC’s overall intake has increased by more than 28% since 2022, data shows. 

On the bright side: Despite the shelter’s increase in euthanasia rates and underfunded budget, adoptions are still increasing, Stottlemyer said. In 2025, 5,765 animals were adopted—an 8% increase from 2024.

The Heights Neighborhood Library turns 100-years old this year, and to celebrate, library officials are having a community-wide event.

The celebration: The Heights 100th Anniversary Celebration will be held March 14 from 1-4 p.m. at the library. The family‑friendly event will feature historical displays, interactive activities, community stories, and opportunities for customers to see what the modernized library offers.

“For 100 years, Heights Neighborhood Library has been a gathering place for curiosity, creativity and community,” Library director Sandy Gaw said. “This centennial isn’t just about looking back, it’s about celebrating those who shaped this space and welcoming the next generation of readers, learners and neighbors who will carry its legacy forward.”

What to expect: A Heights History Presentation that explores how the library has evolved over the decades will be shown during the celebration, as well as Birthday Storytime for the children, games, crafts and food trucks.

• 1302 Heights Blvd., Houston

Several road projects are set to start or finish construction this spring in Houston's Inner Loop, including in the Heights, River Oaks and Montrose areas. Check out these upcoming or ongoing projects slated for the market.

This list is not comprehensive, and details are subject to change.

Buffalo Bayou Greenway connector
The project consists of the design and construction of a shared-use path for bicycles and pedestrians, connecting the Jose Campos Torres Plaza at the intersection of Austin Street and Commerce Street to the Heights Hike and Bike Trail.

Intersection Safety Improvements
The project will include creating a protective barrier between pedestrians and vehicles at the Houston Avenue and White Oak Drive intersection to reduce vehicular accidents.

Mandell Street Improvements
The project along Mandell Street aims to enhance safety and walkability for pedestrians by replacing existing sidewalks with new 5-foot sidewalks and Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant wheelchair ramps, as well as improving the roadway and enhancing lighting.

Cancer Clinician and Translational Scientist Dr. Daniela Matei will become the next director of the Houston Methodist Dr. Mary and Ron Neal Cancer Center following a national search, Houston Methodist officials announced in a Feb. 27 news release.

The details: Currently chief of the Division of Reproductive Science in Medicine in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Matei is an expert in ovarian cancer treatment and research, per the release.

What they’re saying: Chang said Matei’s vision will “enhance the momentum of our research enterprise and support our shared goal of turning scientific innovation into real-world impact for patients.”

What’s next: Matei will begin her role as director in April, per the release.