WESTCHASETODAY

YEAR 21 | ISSUE 2 | SUMMER 2019 Fintech Finds Foothold in Westchase District Bill.com uses TechSpace to establish presence at CityWestPlace

Intro to Financial Technology: Using conference rooms at TechSpace, Bill.com conducts new employee training while it ramps up its presence in .

ill.com, the financial process automation company the payments process, saving more than 50 percent of one of the crown jewels of Westchase District’s offi ce based in Palo Alto, California, is expanding its the time typically spent on such tasks. It manages more market. Featuring such amenities as three fi rst-class Boperations to Houston and will move into 25,000 than $60 billion in payments annually. “We wanted a restaurants, multiple athletic facilities, an auto repair square feet of office space at CityWestPlace later this secondary location outside of the San Francisco Bay Area center, an on-campus dentist and a hair salon, the summer. Since February, the company has operated that has the right mix of talent, quality of life and busi- campus also is home to TechSpace, a coworking offi ce out of TechSpace coworking offices located in the ness-friendliness,” said Jackie Hendy, Bill.com’s senior space that occupies 46,000 square feet in Building 1 of same complex. The arrangement is a great example vice president of human resources. “Our initial search for CityWestPlace. Robert Spoden, TechSpace site manager, of how companies can use coworking space as a a city took about six months and began with 300 cities. said he thinks his company’s reputation for catering to launchpad for expansion into a market. Some locations were cut rather quickly since we placed technology clients helped make available space even more attractive to Bill.com. a high priority on talent availability as well as the city’s Attractive space culture. We were attracted to Houston’s large talent base, A leader in the fi nancial technology, or fi ntech, its emphasis on STEM-related professions and thriving Easy transition industry, Bill.com makes it simple to connect and do university environment. Plus, Houston gives us time “We’ve been able to help Bill.com transition into business. Their cloud-based Intelligent Business Pay- zone diversity.” their permanent offi ces by providing secure, contiguous ments Platform automates, streamlines and controls Bill.com executives were drawn to CityWestPlace, offi ce space on a short-term lease that allows them to (Continued on Page 8)

IN THIS ISSUE: 2 Meet Don Thomas 6 Home2 Suites by Hilton

3 Farmers Market News 6 Trailside Park

Address Service Requested Service Address 4 Corporate Challenge Recap 7 Walnut Bend Reconstruction

westchasedistrict.com

77042 exas

Houston, T Houston, HPD Lt. Paul George 8 Summer Activities Suite 1350 Suite 5

10370 Richmond 10370 See our special Best of Westchase report inside! WESTCHASE TODAY

WESTCHASE TODAY is published Celebrating Our Winners quarterly by Westchase District, a municipal management district funded mentor of mine once told me that every day I could learn about people who were winners by local property owners in a 4.2 square- A – all I had to do was to read the sports pages. Home runs, record times, touchdown passes mile area centered on the and come-from-behind victories are available to Tollway between I-10 and US-59 on the inspire us year-round. Ultimately, the scoreboard tells the tale. west side of Houston, . We promote The parallel to the business world is that economic growth by enhancing mobility, success here, too, occurs daily, but the scoreboard is not always as evident. Our Best of Westchase beautifi cation, public safety, planning online contest recognizes winners in 27 diff erent categories. There is a special four-page insert and development of the District. in this issue to tell you more. Each fi nalist was nominated and selected by voters who live and work in Westchase District, not by a panel of judges. And, yes indeed, we are calling them winners, not mere recipients. You said they are the best so we’re not holding back. You will probably recognize at least some of the businesses and organizations, but we hope you’ll make a point to get to know all of these fi ne businesses. Their scoreboards measure new customers, so we’re Westchase District Board Chair Philip Schneidau hoping that you will show up in their box scores soon. Page 6), also shows up for key audiences. New Sporting some fancy hardware from our investment, job growth and development are all 22nd annual Westchase District Corporate signs of a strong economy. Challenge are Paul Revere Middle School, Costello The scoreboard you might not see relates to Engineering, and DBR as the fi rst-, second- and our infrastructure work. We just opened a pocket third-place winners from this spring’s event park, Trailside Park, and people are making use (see Page 4). We bill this challenge as a casual, of it. We are putting more and more points into lightly-athletic event but when the scores get the quality of life column. Another high scorer close, as they often do late in the day, you can see is our Walnut Bend Lane reconstruction project fi rsthand how these folks work to win. They get (see Page 7). This streetscape redesign will have the awards and accolades while children in our a positive impact rippling through the District for community, who receive all the event proceeds, many years to come. The same can be said for our are the true winners. upcoming Westheimer streetscape improvements. The real estate market has its own set of These two projects represent an investment highly watched scoreboards (or, to use the more of nearly $40 million to bring our streets and popular term – metrics). Bill.com’s new lease is pedestrian environment to standard and beyond. boosting our occupancy rate (see Page 1) and There is more coming in terms of parks and trails, Dave Gilkeson Irma Sanchez Honeywell’s major expansion keeps another brand so stay tuned. VP, COO VP, Projects name company here. Additionally, a new hotel in In sports, in business and in building Westchase District, Home2Suites by Hilton (see communities, long term success builds a legacy. Sherry Fox Jonathan Lowe VP, Communications Assistant Communications Director Don McKinney John Carey An Offi cer and a Gentleman VP, Public Safety Farmers Market Manager Patrinely Group’s Don Thomas joins Board of Directors Louis Jullien Kathy Kaufman Projects Director rowing up in West Houston, Don Thomas his bachelor’s degree in political science from Administrative Assistant has fond memories of watching fi lms with his Texas A&M University and was deployed Rayshell Ford G family in Westchase District at the Tinseltown several times. Multiple back injuries put an Operations Assistant movie theater, which was later redeveloped into early end to Thomas’ military career, but his the Westchase Park offi ce campus. Years later, organizational management skills made him an Thomas fi nds himself in a director’s chair as one ideal candidate for real estate development fi rm of the newest members of the Westchase District Hines. At Hines, Thomas trained in all aspects Board of Directors. Thomas currently has the role of property management from the mailroom of chief operating offi cer with Patrinely Group, and records to auditing and human resources. Receive The Wire, our e-newsletter, twice monthly. a Houston-based real estate fi rm specializing It prepared him well for his current position Three quick and easy ways to subscribe: in large scale, Class A mixed-use, offi ce and with Patrinely. “I was looking for a place where 1. Visit www.westchasedistrict.com/signups, multifamily properties in major markets across the I could be an integral part of the operation and 2. Text WESTCHASE to 22828, or country. As a Board member, he’ll have a front-row create value for the rest of my career,” he said. 3. Use your mobile device to scan the code below. seat to the District’s coming attractions. “Eighteen years later, there’s always something From USMC to A&M to COO new and exciting to tackle.” After graduating from Langham Creek Adding amenities High School, Thomas enlisted in the Marine In Westchase District, Patrinely owns the Corps. “While stationed at Guantanamo Bay 2500 CityWest offi ce building as well as the in my early 20s, I sent $20 million worth of Folio West apartments. Patrinely also owned equipment to Cuba, supervised it and brought a three-acre parcel that eventually was sold it home to the ,” he said. “The off and developed into the CityWest Retail Marines taught me a lot of discipline and Center, home to popular restaurants such as 713-780-9434 organizational skills at a young age which have Panera Bread, Buff Burger, Mod Pizza and Zoe’s westchasedistrict.com served me well in my career. You don’t really Kitchen. “Our tenants today want to keep their Copyright © Westchase District. All Rights Reserved. get a chance to do that in civilian life.” employees closer to the building to maximize During his eight-years with the Marines, productivity and that means providing more Thomas became a commissioned offi cer, earned amenities,” Thomas said. “So, in addition to the 2 WESTCHASE TODAY Pure Texas Honey is Westchase District’s best Longtime Vendors Named as Finalists in “Best of” Contest

his October, the about how the honey is Westchase District produced, best uses or TFarmers Market the health benefi ts and will celebrate its sixth he’ll be happy to share anniversary. Two of his experiences. the vendors who were “I’m honored there at the fi rst market to have been voted (and who have attended Best Vendor at the virtually every market market,” said Kohnke. since), along with one “The folks who are relative newcomer, were my competitors are the top three fi nalists also my friends. We in the online voting for love selling direct to Best Farmers Market customers via farmers Vendor in our Best of markets and it’s always Westchase contest. fun to earn another Congratulations regular customer at to the top vote-getter the Westchase District Chris Kohnke of Pure Farmers Market.” Texas Honey. Kohnke Houston Winery, is the market’s resident which joined the beekeeper and honey market little more than expert. Having learned a year ago, has become the business from his another customer father-in-law, Kohnke favorite. This micro cares for bee colonies winery makes Texas in Brenham and wines right here in Katy, bringing honey Houston. Its award- varietals each week to winning wines include the Westchase District Texas High Plains Farmers Market. Viognier, Roussanne Most popular, he and Petit Verdot, said, are the wildfl ower Texas Roughneck Red honeys from Katy and Brenham. He also sells an Orange Blossom honey, Texas and the Houstonian Port. The newest release is a sweet white wine lime blend, Mesquite honey, Buckwheat honey, Brazos County honey and Central Texas formally known as Snake Bite. Informally referred to as a Wine-A-Rita, it can be Clover honey. Kohnke also has honey soaps, bee pollen and bottled honey served chilled or blended with ice for the perfect summer beverage. Tastings are comb. And he’s a wealth of knowledge about all things bee-related. Ask him off ered every week. Rounding out our top three farmers market vendors is another merchant who has participated in the market since its opening. PEAS Farm brings seasonal fresh produce, honey and eggs to the market each week. Elvis and Pat d’Agrella own three farms in Conroe and Huntsville. They have an extensive variety of produce depending on the growing season. This summer, they’ll have yellow squash, zucchini, cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, green beans, brussels sprouts, radishes, carrots, beets, greens, onions, tomatillos, cantaloupe, watermelon, and…who knows. Come to the market any Thursday from 3 p.m. until dark to fi nd out for yourself. “The farmers market has become a big part of the Westchase District community since its opening more than fi ve years ago,” said market manager John Carey. “It was fun to have this category included in the Best of Westchase contest and nice to see our long-time vendors recognized.”

Westchase District Farmers Market Year-round, rain or shine, Thursdays @ 3 p.m.

Friendly Competition: Elvis d’Agrella of PEAS Farm (far left) and Jayme St. Cyril of Alexandria Catholic Church Konarik of Houston Winery (second from right) exhibit hilarious fake hostility 10503 Westheimer Road (at Rogerdale Road, one block west of Beltway 8) toward winner Chris Kohnke. Market manager John Carey presides over the fun, after presenting the award to Kohnke. www.westchasedistrictfarmersmarket.com

onsite café at 2500 CityWest, employees now have six restaurants they can walk to for lunch. Tenants want to spend time outdoors, so we’ve redesigned our outside seating areas to include Wi-Fi, updated furniture and a ‘living wall’ adorned with grasses and plants.” Thomas said he sees signs workers want to be close to their jobs as well. “On the residential side, we’ve seen employees at the nearby Phillips 66 headquarters leasing apartments at Folio West,” he said. “That’s a great deal – they can walk down the street and be in their offi ce, walk home for lunch or visit any of the nearby amenities.” Grateful dad Married for 21 years, Thomas and his wife live in The Woodlands with their teenage children. “My son will start college in August at Loyola Marymount University and my daughter is a dancer and a cancer survivor,” he said. “After battling stomach cancer for the past year, we recently received the great news that she’s cancer-free.”

A Property Management Pro: As COO with Patrinely Group, Don Thomas manages all aspects of the company’s operations. 3 WESTCHASE TODAY Revere Middle School Repeats Corporate Challenge Victory In 22 years, event has raised $280,000 for area charities

or the second year in a row, a team from Paul Revere Middle School claimed the coveted traveling trophy Fas overall winner of Westchase District’s 22nd annual Corporate Challenge. The team, led by Trenton Bell, earned top honors, while Costello Engineering’s “blue” team, led by Joey Sitzman, came in second. Third place in the six-event competition went to DBR’s “A Team,” led by Kathryn Phelps. Forty-nine teams competed this year, including new participants from: BakerRisk; Binkley & Barfi eld; and Odyssey Engineering Group. Each team participated in six diff erent athletic events – NBA Around the World, kickball, briefcase relay, soccer kick, dodgeball and rugby. The winners in the individual events were: • NBA Around the World: First Place, Second Time: Paul Revere Middle School took Amegy Bank fi rst place overall at the Westchase District Corporate Challenge for the second year in a row. • Kickball: Costello, Inc. “Blue Team” • Briefcase Relay: Van DeWiele & Vogler “Wonder Wiele” team • Soccer Kick: Costello, Inc. “Blue Team” • Dodgeball: Revere Middle School • Rugby: Meriplex Communications Sponsors and sportsmanship The awards were presented at an April 25 awards luncheon, which also recognized title sponsor Lockwood, Crowd Pleaser: A new event this year, an obstacle course led by Andrews & Newnam as well as major sponsors of the event: members of the Houston SaberCats rugby team, was a hit with Amegy Bank; Binkley & Barfi eld; Camden; Camp Gladiator; participants. Cantina Laredo; DataVox; EHRA Engineering; Frost Bank; The Goodman Corporation; Grace Presbyterian Church; Harvey Builders; Houston Marriott Westchase; Houston SaberCats; IronEdge Group; Pape-Dawson Engineers; Quillian Center; Raba Kistner; and SignatureCare ER. First-time participants Odyssey Engineering dove head-fi rst into this year’s event, with 12 out of the fi rm’s 20 employees competing on two teams. “Several of our employees had been in previous challenges when they worked at other offi ces, but we didn’t have enough people to put together a team until this year,” said Sarah Abrams, senior project engineer at Odyssey. “We had a great time Ham & Cheese: Employees from Costello Engineering and hope to place next year!” hammed it up while saying “Cheese!” and bonded with The Corporate Challenge is billed as a fun teambuilding one another at the Corporate Challenge photo booth. and networking event for the speedy and strong as well as for those just tagging along. Also at the recognition lunch, VAALCO Energy was acknowledged as the winner for Best Sportsmanship, IronEdge Group had the Best Team Spirit and Signature Care ER received honors for the Best Team T-Shirts. Summer camp and charitable support Since 1998, the Westchase District’s Corporate Challenge has raised more than $280,000 for area charities, including Quillian Center’s summer day camps. The money is distributed by the Westchase District Community Fund, the Kickin’ Back: The Soccer Kick event is a perennial favorite nonprofi t arm of the District. WDCF Chairman Tim Johnson with Corporate Challenge participants. presented a check for $8,250 to Quillian Center at the award lunch. The money is used by Quillian to provide need-based scholarships for area children to attend Quillian Center’s summer day camps. “We’re grateful for our long-time relationship with Westchase District and the Corporate Challenge,” said Tom Gaden, Quillian Center Director. “And we appreciate all the area businesses that participate in this event and help generate the contributions that will convey directly to area kids.” Mark your calendars: next year’s event will take place Friday, April 3. Chances are it will sell out quickly.

Thanks to our Title Sponsor:

Paying it Forward: Members of the Westchase District Community Fund presented Quillian Center’s Tom Gaden (third from left) with a check to provide scholarships for Quillian’s summer camps. 4 WESTCHASE TODAY The Globetrotter with the Gold Bars A constant presence, Lieutenant Paul George is constantly on the move

ver time, Westchase District has earned a reputation as a low-crime area, crash occurred and what made it happen. I like that it’s specialized work, but I’m thanks to the consistent eff orts of the Westchase District Patrol. That still not confi ned to an offi ce.” Osuccess is tied directly to the high caliber of talented and ambitious patrol George said that while most collisions involving intoxicated drivers occur offi cers the District attracts. More than one quarter of the District’s patrol at nighttime, he’s noticed an increase in daytime crashes caused by motorists offi cers hold the rank of Police Sergeant and nearly half of those offi cers made distracted with using their cell phones while driving. “We see a lot of that in rank during their time working for Westchase District. Leading this wave of Houston, along with people running red lights and pedestrians not crossing excellence is Lieutenant Paul George, a 22-year Houston Police Department at intersections,” he said. “So much of it could be prevented if people just paid veteran who has spent half his career also working off -duty for Westchase attention and worked at being more patient on getting where they’re going safely.” District. World traveler From Army medic to accident investigator During the lieutenant’s lengthy tenure with the District, he’s experienced Reared in northeast Houston, George graduated from the former M.B. Smiley everything from car chases to simply helping people cross the street. “What I High School, now the main campus for North Forest High School. He then enlisted like about working in Westchase District is that I feel supported by the owners in the U.S. Army and served as a medic for four years while stationed at Fort Leonard and businesses who like our presence out here,” he said. “The community seems Wood in the Missouri Ozarks. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in history and to genuinely appreciate us patrolling and taking care of issues for them and that government from Columbia College of Missouri and briefl y considered a career means a lot when people thank me. Also, the District has provided us with up-to- as a schoolteacher. “Ultimately I wanted something with more fl exibility,” he said. date vehicles and equipment to charge radios and cell phones, which really helps.” “I didn’t want to be restricted to a mundane offi ce or classroom all the time. I wanted After putting thousands of miles on District patrol vehicles for more than a to be able to drive around and meet diff erent people. So, I ended up looking into law decade, George hasn’t grown tired of staying on the move. An avid world traveler, enforcement and decided to become a police offi cer.” George recently completed a trek through Russia, Finland, Sweden and Norway. After graduating from the Houston Police Academy in 1997, George was “I plan to put in 10 more years with the force and then retire somewhere overseas,” assigned to evening patrol out of HPD’s Northeast Division. After a stint downtown he said. “Until then, I’m happy helping people in Westchase District.” on bike patrol, he worked accident investigations for four years then returned to Northeast station for eight years as a patrol sergeant. Along the way, George earned his Master’s degree in sociology and criminal justice from the -Clear Lake. In 2009, George learned about the Westchase District Patrol through a fl yer given to him by colleague Mike Burdick. “I had recently moved out to the Katy area, so the job was more on my side of town. I applied and have been here ever since.” George currently patrols the District three shifts per week. Supervision and safety In 2013, George was promoted to lieutenant, becoming the fi rst Westchase District Patrol offi cer to earn the rank. When not working for the District, he serves as a day shift supervisor in HPD’s vehicular crimes division. “We investigate catastrophic crashes, specifi cally fatal crashes, accidents where people either fail to stop and render aid or give information, and crashes involving government fl eet vehicles,” George said. “It’s interesting work because we’re working backwards from the aftermath, reconstructing how a Cruise Control: HPD Lieutenant Paul George often can be seen cruising by the District’s trail system on patrol.

5 WESTCHASE TODAY A Sweet Location for Home2 Suites by Hilton New extended stay hotel opens on Wilcrest Drive near future park site

here’s a new home for guests visiting Westchase District, the Home2 Suites with barbecue grills, one next to by Hilton Houston Westchase, which opened in April at 3125 Wilcrest Drive. a fi re pit and another next to a T We fi rst reported about the long-awaited hotel in a 2014 issue of Westchase saline-based pool round out the Today, but a change in developers delayed design and construction for several hotel's amenities. years. However, the wait was worth it – the four-story, 120-room hotel off ers guests a sleek, modern design and high-tech amenities in a highly-desirable Sustainable stays location. The Home2 Suites brand incorporates environmentally- Revised and customized conscious operations and When Vishal Mody, principal with Houston-based Clarus Hotels, took over amenities into its hotels, from ownership he obtained new permits and revised the hotel’s original design. “We low-maintenance landscaping and made the rooms a little bit larger and added several custom interior design features a saline-based swimming pool to not found at other Home2 Suites locations,” he said. “Those include stone facades in Energy Star-rated appliances and Tracking Environmental Impact: Vishal Mody, the lobby area, larger 55-inch in-room televisions, upgraded bathrooms, unique vinyl dual-fl ush toilets. “Our rooftop owner of the Home2 Suites by Hilton Houston wall treatments, custom artwork and more contemporary color schemes. We wanted solar panels provide about 10 Westchase, explains Hilton Worldwide’s LightStay system, which measures the hotel’s to create something distinctive and special for Westchase District and we’re really percent of the hotel’s energy and energy use. proud of the result.” guests are able to track our energy The pet-friendly hotel features kitchenettes in every room, free parking, free use from a screen in the lobby,” breakfast and free wireless Internet access. A fi tness room features a pulley machine said Dewayne Scott, the hotel’s general manager. “Also, we participate in Hilton’s and dumbbells partnership with Clean the World, a program that recycles discarded soap bars to ranging up to distribute to communities in need to combat hygiene-related illnesses.” 75 pounds. Located just north of Richmond Avenue, Home2 Suites sits next to an A spacious undeveloped plot where Westchase District plans to construct a four-acre park laundry area is that will include a dog park, a performance pavilion and space for food trucks. The equipped with hotel’s proximity to the future park, which will connect to the District’s trail system, multiple washers will provide guests with a set of amenities unmatched in the area. “We don’t have and dryers. the drive-by exposure of some of our competitors, but I think the future dog park A 670-square- will be a huge amenity for our guests staying with their pets,” said Taylin Hassell, foot meeting the hotel’s sales director. “Already our guests love using the trails. We’re so excited space can be about the park!” customized to In addition to easy access to the trail system and upcoming park, the hotel is a clients' needs. short walk from the Robinson-Westchase Neighborhood Library, Whole Foods and How Suite It Is: The new Home2 Suites by Hilton recently opened at 3125 Wilcrest. Two separate CVS. For reservations, call 832-295-4800. outdoor patios District Transforms Untended Tract into Trailside Park First park constructed by Westchase District links to trail system

he path to success means doing a lot of little things right. Westchase District nonprofi t dedicated to bringing not only follows this path, it has created a path for the entire community to balanced and active play into the Tenjoy and attached a quarter-acre pocket park to one section of it. Trailside daily lives of all kids. “It’s good Park is part of a 750-foot trail just north of Richmond Avenue that connects the exercise and a lot of fun,” Jullien HCC Campus Trail with Hayes Road (parking is available along Hayes). said. “Plus, there’s nothing like it in the area.” Jullien added that Pretty zippy the District also has installed The park is a model example of doing a lot with a little. “Because the HCC a picnic table, a fi xed seating Campus Trail runs along a CenterPoint Energy powerline corridor, we’re not area and a drinking fountain allowed to place any amenities along that trail,” said Louis Jullien, Westchase complete with a “pup cup,” as District projects director. “Fortunately, we were able to secure a parcel next well as trees and landscaping. to the CenterPoint corridor just behind 11200 Richmond that makes for a perfect little recreation area. CenterPoint granted us an aerial easement and we Interactive art Spotted at the Park: Local artist Reginald received recreational easements from CREA Investments as well as Lai, Corsini Trailside Park features a Adams painted this mural featured at Trailside & Lapus, LLC, which allowed us to develop the park on their private property.” unique piece of interactive art Park using a recycled construction sign. Last summer, workers cleared the area of brush and poured the park’s eight- by local artist Reginald Adams. foot-wide concrete trail. “In clearing the land, we discovered clothes, tires and Adams painted a colorful lion directly on the sidewalk of the park’s path. When all sorts of debris,” Jullien said. viewed from certain angles, the lion takes on a three-dimensional eff ect. Through “It was pretty disheveled. We a grant from nonprofi t America Walks, Adams also has painted a hopscotch decided to incorporate a jungle pattern on the path as well as lines for measuring horizontal jumps. Finally, Adams theme for the park, transforming reclaimed one of the District’s old construction site signs and turned it into a mini it from an untamed space into a mural depicting a cheetah in a jungle setting that has human faces hidden in the manicured jungle.” background details. Last fall, the District added Patrick Chang, the landscape architect who came up with the initial concept of a ZipKrooz playground zip line Trailside Park, is recognized in the park’s art as well. Chang unexpectedly died in that allows children and adults 2017. His signature is painted on the concrete of Trailside Park in tribute to his work to safely and smoothly glide throughout the District. “We wanted to acknowledge his contributions and honor his back and forth along a 30-foot legacy in a meaningful way,” said Irma Sanchez, Westchase District’s vice president track. Unlike other playground of projects. zip lines, ZipKrooz is a two-way Trailside Park shows just how much can be accomplished with a small parcel ride, eliminating the need to of land. “Admittedly, this is a tiny, modest park, but it provides greenery, a place to A Manicured Jungle: Westchase District’s walk the seat back to start. The new Trailside Park packs in amenities for sit outdoors and play and it’s a much better use of the space than what was there nearby residents and employees looking zip line was funded by a $25,000 before,” Sanchez said. “And with two more parks in the works in Westchase District, for some outdoor activity. grant from KaBOOM!, a national Trailside Park is just the beginning.” 6 WESTCHASE TODAY Smoother, Safer and Structurally Superior Reconstruction of Walnut Bend Lane to begin this summer

ater this summer, Westchase District will move forward with the largest Westchase District. About a decade ago, the District began looking at how capital improvement project it has ever undertaken: a $20 million to address deteriorating surface conditions on Walnut Bend such as failing L reconstruction of the section of Walnut Bend Lane that runs from Westpark concrete, shifting panels and uneven sidewalks. “We considered resurfacing it Drive to Westheimer Road. Workers will reconstruct nearly 6,000 feet of for about $1 million, but once we delved into the project, engineers discovered roadway, construct enhanced sidewalks and upgrade underground public larger issues with underground water and sewer lines in dire need of updates,” utility lines. Extensive improvements will include pedestrian lighting, said Irma Sanchez, Westchase District’s vice president of projects. dedicated bike lanes, custom bus shelters, extensive landscaping, bike racks, A popular route for commuters, school buses and METRO buses, Walnut benches and signage. Bend currently runs two lanes in each direction, but a combination of undefi ned on-street parking and a lack of clear lane markings make for ineffi cient and Comprehensive redesign confusing travel. “We’ll narrow the roadway to two lanes, expanding to three lanes at intersections to allow for turning movements,” Sanchez said. “Also, With eight apartment and townhome communities, totaling 2,355 units we’ll create defi ned on-street parking areas near destinations where they make lining the street, Walnut Bend is one of the most heavily traveled streets in sense and won’t create visibility barriers.” A model for others The City of Houston has discussed using the District’s redesign of Walnut Bend as a model of a “complete street” that serves pedestrians and cyclists as well as motorists and transit riders. “As other roadways across the city are scheduled for reconstruction, the City would like to take our model and apply it there,” Sanchez said. The District’s 380 Program with the City of Houston covers about $4.4 million, Houston Public Works will contribute another $4.6 million and grants from the Federal Highway Administration and the Houston-Galveston Area Council will fund the rest of the $20 million project. The Texas Department of Transportation will oversee the construction process. The project is scheduled to begin this summer and will take about 20 months to complete. “The plan is to start at Westpark and work our way north in sections to minimize the impact on traffi c,” Sanchez said. “Expect some detours, but at least one Roadway Reconstruction: Walnut Bend Lane will be rebuilt with improved lane of traffi c will be maintained at all times, as will access to all of the properties. pedestrian access including wider sidewalks and continuous bike lanes. When the project is completed, Walnut Bend will better accommodate all users Approved and permitted by the City of Houston, construction is scheduled to begin later this year. safely and be a catalyst for future development and redevelopment in the District.” Bucking Boredom This Summer Options abound for area families seeking summertime activities

ummer is here, which means lots of free time for students and challenges for parents concerned about how to entertain and engage their children. Several Free lunches Sprograms are off ered within Westchase District to address those concerns – When school is out, hunger isn’t for families in need. Fortunately, West Houston here’s a roundup of some family-friendly options to occupy kids and teens. Assistance Ministries, 10501 Meadowglen Lane, is serving free lunches weekdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. through August 2. This program is open to all children, infant Summer camps through 18 years, and they can come as often as they like during the week. “There is no paperwork required or income restrictions for eligibility,” said Cindy Orman, Worried you won't get to spend time with your child this summer? WHAM’s communications manager. “The children can simply show up and be fed a Consider enrolling your child in either Camp Quillian or Kidventure and hot meal at WHAM.” benefi t from having your child attend a summer camp within minutes from Also, WHAM has partnered with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension to host a work. For 60 years, Quillian Center has hosted summer day camps featuring series of six nutritional education classes for both elementary school-age children swimming, rock climbing, art, games and specialty classes. Camps are open to and adults. The classes will take place July 8, 11, 15, 18, 22 and 25 at the WHAM kids ages 5 - 12, with teen camps serving 13 and 14-year-olds. Camp Quillian offi ces. Registration is required and children must be accompanied by a parent. is part of First Methodist Houston, located at 10570 Westpark Drive. Camp For more details, call Orman at 713-331-9982. Ascension is part of Kidventure summer camps and is hosted at Ascension Episcopal Church, located at 2525 Seagler Road. These kids participate in games, fi eld trips, arts and crafts, and team-building activities. For more information, visit quilliancenter.org or kidventure.com. Cool pool Arguably one of Westchase District's most recognizable attractions (at least to families with young kids) is the Noah's Ark Pool, at 10570 Westpark Drive. The pool, which is part of Quillian Center, features an ark structure with animals in a shallow pool with three slides, a crawl-through, a mushroom water drop, a rainbow slide and animals spraying water. For older kids, Quillian Center features a full- sized swimming pool with dual slides and two diving boards. Pool hours through August 24 are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For holiday hours, as well as prices for admission and concessions, visit their website. Neighborhood library The Robinson-Westchase Neighborhood Library, 3223 Wilcrest Drive, is a great place for getting out of the hot sun and into a good book. The 's Summer Reading Program, running through August 1, allows kids to beat summer boredom by earning reading and activity badges and unlocking awesome prizes. “Anything you read counts, even audiobooks, comic books and magazines,” said Tim Siegel, library manager. Learn more about the summer reading program Wet-chase District: Cool off this summer at Quillian Center’s full sized swimming pool or at the Noah’s Ark area for younger swimmers. at houstonlibrary.org/summer. 7 WESTCHASE TODAY

(Continued from Page 1) ramp up their team in Houston,” Spoden said. He added that TechSpace is pre-wired for clients to build private computer networks so that no one else can access their data. “That private network also gives them secure Wi-Fi access to move around the space with laptops, so they don’t have to be in their offi ce to do their jobs,” he said. “Bill.com started with about a dozen employees in our space and is up to about 30 workstations, but those numbers will decrease as employees gradually move into their new offi ces. Our ability to fl ex with the company’s needs while they build out is one of our strengths as an incubator space.” Expansion plans Currently Bill.com has customer service and engineering staff in the TechSpace location, but Hendy said the company plans to hire 100+ employees over the next few years. “We will hire for other roles once our operations are up and running,” she said. “Already, we have participated in a number of hiring events with nonprofi t accelerator Station Houston and with .” Vinay Pai, senior vice president of engineering at Bill.com, said Houston’s mix of talent, quality of life and friendly but ambitious culture provides the right foundation for Bill.com’s growth. "Having lived in Houston, I know fi rsthand the quality and depth of talent available in this thriving university environment and known technology hub,” he said. “It's a great combination for the tough challenges and problem solving that we need to innovate in the fi ntech space." Once the build out of Bill.com’s space is completed later this summer, Hendy said the company plans to have a grand opening event. “We’ll be welcoming Mayor Turner to our offi ce along with Bill.com customers, the Partnership, and members of the business and university communities,” she said. “We’re excited to have expanded our operations outside of the San Francisco Bay Area and to call Houston Room to Grow: Richard Salvador, project manager, and Jackie Hendy, senior vice our second home.” president of human resources, review construction plans for Bill.com’s new offi ces at CityWestPlace.

Looking Good and Getting Noticed District’s beautifi cation eff orts recognized by contest voters

e’re not ones to pat ourselves on the back…but we’re happy to let other people do it for us. For this year’s Best of Westchase online contest, voters nominated W and selected two Westchase District projects to receive recognition. The Connector Trail was chosen as Best Greenspace and voters selected the District’s section of Beltway 8 as Best Landscaped Area. The 1.9-mile, off -street Brays Bayou Connector Trail runs south from Richmond Avenue to Bellaire Boulevard. The 8- to 10-foot concrete path features lighted underpasses as well as benches, water fountains, trash receptacles, wildfl owers, tree groves, exercise equipment and a bicycle repair station. A 20 x 100-foot mural commemorating the fi rst responders and civilian rescuers who reacted bravely in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey is painted along the banks of the Harris County Flood Control District channel where the trail meets with the District's Wilcrest Connector Trail. The Brays Bayou Connector Trail also connects to METRO's Westchase Park & Ride, Harwin Park and Arthur Storey Park.

Flora Along the Feeder: Best of Westchase voters chose Westchase District’s stretch of Beltway 8 as Best Landscaped Area.

For nearly 15 years, Westchase District has actively improved and maintained the most attractive public landscaping along a major highway in Houston: the District’s stretch of Beltway 8. Glance out your car window for a moment and you’ll notice Knockout roses, dwarf oleanders, Indian hawthorn, Asian jasmine and crape myrtles. The boulders and river rock used in the dry creek beds not only slow the fl ow of water from drainage outlets along the West Sam Houston Parkway, they fi lter debris from the water that helps irrigate the blooming plants located further down the greenspace slopes. Brightly illuminated underpasses, lit around the clock, help motorists travel safely while special paving at key intersections directs pedestrian traffi c appropriately. “Over time, we’ve learned about what works and what doesn’t in this Tricked Out Trail: Amenities like workout equipment, a water fountain and urban environment,” said Irma Sanchez, Westchase District’s vice president signage earned the District’s Brays Bayou Connector Trail a Best Greenspace of projects. “We’re now at a point where our beautifi cation eff orts are an award. essential feature of the Westchase District brand.” 8