The Heights West Civic Association aka Heights West, inactive since around 2010, was originally formed as an offshoot of the Greater Heights Community Alliance (GHCA) in the mid-1990s. As part of the effort to revitalize and rebrand this organization into the Heights MKT Partnership, we are looking to build on its guiding principles while expanding its mission to better serve the evolving needs of the community.
Location
Heights West is bounded by White Oak Bayou (south), 20th/14th Street (north), Yale Street (east), and Shepherd Drive (west)
Identity & Character
A diverse neighborhood with a mix of cultural influences and historical significance known for addressing community concerns and supporting projects like park enhancements and pedestrian improvements
History
Established around 1995, Heights West was known for its historical landmarks and active community engagement
Key Features
Historic residences, notable businesses, and gathering spots were central to the neighborhood’s character
Civic Action
Affiliated with the Greater Heights Community Alliance, with a focus on advocacy and improvement projects. Contributed to the establishment of City Super Neighborhood #15, enhancing civic engagement and representation.
Former Leadership
Included figures like Pete Bolds (President for 10 years), Tim Daponti (Vice President) and Tony Ercolani (Treasurer)
Mission Statement
I. Establish a mechanism for some degree of local control and the resolution of conflicts
II. Improve equipty and diversity through inclusiveness
III. Formulate a choesiveness vision towards an improved quality of life for all residents
IV. Promote growth and development that is consistent with the goals, objectives, and action plans of the neighborhood plan
V. Establish and secure the support of local government as an equal partner in implementing the neighborhood plan
VI. Generate a sense of pride among residents
Goals
- Improve and maintain infrastrucure, drainage system, streets, alleyways, sidewalks, water and wastewater systems.
- Improve traffic circulation and safety; reduce traffic related nuissances.
- Provide information about after school programs that encourage the interaction and participation of children, youth, parents, and seniors.
- Encourage corporate partnerships to underwrite extended day programs at local schools.
- Provide a community beautification and open spaces resource guide, to be kept at the Heights Neighborhood library and area park recreation centers. The resource guide should include existing plans, programs, funding sources and contacts.
- Improve and maintain appearance of area streets.
- Preserve the unique character of Greater Heights area neighborhoods.
- Promote a small town environment and a sense of community by encouraging interaction among residents.
- Increase home ownership in Greater Heights area communties.
- Improve appearance of Greater Heights area properties.
- Resolve community problems to the greatest extent possible.
- Develop programs and activities that are interesting and offer real work experience for area youth.
- Upgrade and improve maintenance of parks and open spaces.
- Establish the Greater Heights area as a model of tree preservation and planting.
- Enhance the quality of life resulting from broad interaction of different elements of society.
- Promote adaptive reuse of large vacant properties to the Greater Heights area.
- Establish Greater Heights area as bicycle friendly connected to adjacent neighborhoods by a network of bikeways, pathways and trails.
- Educate residents about deed restrictions and the Pro Bono Deed Restriction Program.
