Investing in Our Infrastructure

Commissioner Garcia is committed to keeping the roads and bridges of Precinct Two in the best possible condition. Strongly believing that partnerships produce results, she has worked hard with local, state and federal agencies to secure approximately $111 million for work to be completed in the precinct in the next two to five years.

Since taking office, she has developed a Transportation Master Plan, while fast-tracking much needed projects, such as the improvements to Fairmont Parkway in Pasadena, and the completion of the Space Center Boulevard expansion.

In addition, scheduled maintenance and repairs have been completed to the Washburn Tunnel and the historic Lynchburg Ferry is undergoing extensive renovations.

Respecting Our Seniors

Commissioner Garcia has strengthened Precinct Two’s commitment to seniors. Started by Commissioner Jim Fonteno in 1975, East Harris County Senior Citizens continues to sponsor activities throughout the precinct and offers special programs for those living in nursing homes. Since taking office, Commissioner Garcia has expanded programs to seniors and increased Precinct Two's bus fleet to 37 vehicles. She has also implemented a program to equip all community centers with defibrillators to help protect the health of Precinct Two senior residents.

Protecting Our Quality of Life

Commissioner Garcia initiated new programs aimed at improving drainage and mosquito abatement. D.I.G. (the Drainage Improvement Group) involves a systematic approach to keeping the thousands of miles of ditches in Precinct Two clear of debris and keeping neighborhoods clean. S.W.A.T. (the Standing Water Attack Team) is on constant alert to identify potential mosquito breeding sites and respond quickly to outbreaks.

She has also added and improved park space, such as the Tony Marron and Jim and Jo Ann Fonteno Parks, and established the Allison Peirce Wetlands Nature Sanctuary, effectively

turning a garbage dump into beautiful greenspace. In addition, she has worked jointly with the Harris County Flood Control District to add hike and bike trails along the bayous of Precinct Two.

To protect the health and safety of residents, Commissioner Garcia hired the precinct's first full-time director to work on homeland security issues while monitoring environmental concerns.

Providing Opportunities for Youth

Commissioner Garcia brought a commitment to youth and education with her when she took office in January 2003. The East Harris County Youth Program offers at-risk elementary students opportunities to succeed. She has added “extreme skate” facilities at both the James Driver and Sylvan Beach Parks, and is opening a NFL YET Center for disadvantaged youth in the precinct through a joint partnership between the NFL and her office. In addition, the exciting new East Harris County Soccer Complex is currently under development as part of her Parks Master Plan.