West University Place officials approved funding for a study that would look at the city’s eastern boundary as plans for Rice Village development proceed.

The study was prompted by the development of Rice Village and concerns about what it could mean for West U residents, city officials said.

Some background: The Rice University Gateway Project is a $120 million development that will create a pedestrian-friendly link between the campus and Rice Village. It is part of Rice’s 30-year Campus Land Use Plan and aims to integrate infrastructure, student life, athletics and community engagement.

The discussion: That development prompted West U officials in December 2025 to direct the city's Zoning and Planning Commission to examine the potential impacts and determine whether the city has planning or zoning options of its own.

American electric vehicle brand Rivian will open a charging location on the Southwest Freeway.

Some background: Rivian was founded in 2009 and sells electric SUVs and trucks. The brand's name is derived from "Indian River," and company officials sell vehicles manufactured in the U.S. directly to consumers and commercial customers.

Rivian also partners with Amazon for its electric vans. Company officials recently announced a partnership with Uber to provide 10,000 fully autonomous robo-taxis.

What we know: According to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, the project to build the EV station began June 16 and is expected to be completed by mid-June 2027. The estimated cost for the project is $330,000. The listing also indicates that private funds are not provided by the tenant.

Demolition work on the site of Bellaire’s soon-to-be-built south detention basin is nearing completion, City Manager Sharon Citino confirmed in a Sept. 14 update.

Why it matters: The ongoing site work is among several construction-related tasks within the Cypress Ditch Regional Flood Mitigation Program, an initiative centered around improving the city’s overall drainage capabilities and reducing flooding during heavy rain events.

Latest update: At the Sept. 14 council meeting, Citino shared that all of the site’s former structures have been torn down, leaving only debris removal and final site clearing as the remaining tasks before construction can begin.

The city manager added that since the project’s last update, privacy screening was installed along the site’s fence to ensure the safety and protection of the neighboring synagogue, Congregation Beth Yeshurun.

Looking ahead: In an email to Community Impact following the council meeting, Bellaire Community Relations Administrator Cheryl Bright confirmed that the estimated start date for construction of the south detention basin is early 2027.

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month across the Greater Houston area Sept. 19-Oct. 5 with this event guide by Community Impact.

River Oaks District’s Hispanic Heritage Fiesta: On Sept. 19 from 1-4 p.m., Houston residents are invited to enjoy an afternoon filled with cultural performances, artistry and family-friendly activities at The Park in the River Oaks District, located between Bari Ristorante and Dolce & Gabbana.

Tejano Queen Forever and El Turko Sonidero at the Plaza at Avenida Houston: Avenida Houston’s evening music festival Sept. 19 from 6:30-9 p.m. will bring Tejano, cumbia and diverse Latin sounds to the downtown area.

Movie Night on the Lawn: Selena: Film lovers are invited to watch a screening of “Selena” atop POST Houston’s rooftop park, Skylawn on Oct. 2 from 8-10 p.m.

All events are subject to change, and this list is not comprehensive.

Candidates Letitia Plummer and Orlando Sanchez are running to lead Harris County government.

What you need to know: Plummer, a Democrat and Orlando, a Republican, will face off in November’s general election to become Harris County’s next judge. The judge oversees the Harris County Commissioners Court, which governs the county. The court and county judge are responsible for the about five million residents who live in Harris County.

Before you go: Early voting begins Oct. 19 and runs through Oct. 30, according to the Texas Secretary of State's website. Election day is Nov. 3 and polls will be open from 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

Registered voters can cast their ballot at any polling location during early voting and Election Day.