Introduction to the Issue
The city of Houston and Harris County are working together to make a significant improvement to the safety of students in the Denver Harbor neighborhood. They are seeking $4.6 million in state funding to build a pedestrian bridge over the Union Pacific Railroad track near McReynolds Middle School. This project is crucial because the current situation is hazardous, with trains often blocking access to the school and students sometimes crawling under the trains to get to and from school.
Background of the Problem
The effort to build a pedestrian bridge began before a tragic incident in December when a 15-year-old student from Milby High School was killed by a train. Council member Mario Castillo, who represents the area, noted that the community had raised concerns about the danger posed by the train tracks. During one of his first town halls, the issue was brought up, and it was clear that something needed to be done to prevent a potential tragedy.
The Grant Application
The Houston City Council approved an application for a state grant from the Texas Department of Transportation to fund the pedestrian bridge project. If the grant is awarded, the city would contribute $465,000, and Harris County Precinct 2 would give about $700,000. This collaboration between the city and the county is essential for the project’s success.
Recent Developments and Support
After the death of the 15-year-old student, Union Pacific adjusted its operations to avoid train crossings near schools during peak hours. The company also conducted a rail safety training session for approximately 100 Houston ISD police officers. Additionally, Union Pacific funded the design phase of the McReynolds crossing project and wrote a letter of support for the grant application. Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia has also been advocating for a solution to the dangerous rail crossing and has offered to cover 60% of the local share if the application is approved.
Future Plans and Funding
If the state funding falls through, the city may look to Union Pacific for additional support. Council member Castillo mentioned that the city previously failed to obtain a federal grant for the project, so securing the state grant is crucial. The city should find out if the grant is awarded in early fall, and at that point, the construction timeline will be determined.
Conclusion
The pedestrian bridge project near McReynolds Middle School is a vital initiative to ensure the safety of students in the Denver Harbor neighborhood. With the support of the city, county, and Union Pacific, this project can become a reality. The collaboration and commitment to finding a solution to the dangerous rail crossing are commendable, and it is essential to continue working together to make this project a success. The safety of students should always be the top priority, and this project is a significant step in the right direction.
