As 2024 ends, Houston Mayor John Whitmire reflects on a year of challenges and progress. From road infrastructure and public safety to tackling homelessness, here’s what he’s achieved and plans for 2025.
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Mayor John Whitmire's first year as mayor of Houston presented both ambitious aims and considerable hurdles. His administration prioritized infrastructure development, homelessness prevention, and public safety.
One of Whitmire's primary concerns was improving Houston's roads. Houston Avenue changed early in his tenure. However, Whitmire reversed the modifications in February due to lane limits. By March, he had halted all transportation projects that altered car lanes to reevaluate their performance, including the 11th Street Bikeway and the Shepherd-Durham rehabilitation project. These projects were restarted with compromises, such as maintaining standard highway widths and improving walkways. A new Montrose Boulevard Improvement Plan, authorized in November, includes drainage and traffic safety improvements.
Whitmire announced a $70 million trial initiative aimed at combating homelessness last November. The proposal includes funds for outreach, quick rehousing, permanent supportive housing, and shelter support, alongside private and charity contributions.
In June, the city council adopted Whitmire's $6.7 billion FY 2025 budget, with a focus on public safety and infrastructure improvements. Houston's police and fire departments got significant funding for staff training and resources. Additionally, $8 million was given for local drainage projects, including $800,000 set aside for a resilience hub generator in Kashmere Gardens.
Looking ahead to 2025, Whitmire's administration intends to expand on these programs and address essential needs across Houston.
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