The intersections of Hiram Clarke at W. Fuqua and Oram as well as South Post Oak at W. Fuqua and Oram are busy intersections in our community that play essential roles in the daily lives of residents and visitors. A traffic study from 2018 revealed that motorists experienced long wait times at these intersections, and there were high rates of car crashes due to limited turn lane availability. To help improve their experiences, Hiram Clarke Fort Bend/TIRZ 25 and TIRZ 9 prioritized updates that began in the fall of 2018. This project marked a milestone as the first joint initiative between TIRZ 25 and TIRZ 9, illustrating our mutual commitment to cooperative urban planning for the benefit of the community.
The project focused on three key areas: beautification, multimodal commuter safety, and accessibility.
Improving the commute through art, landscaping, and poetry
The traffic study showed that drivers were becoming frustrated with the wait times at the intersections of Hiram Clarke and W. Fuqua, and at South Post Oak and W. Fuqua. Understanding that commuting is a part of most people’s daily routine, we collectively decided to prioritize the beautification of the area. We worked with UpArt Studios to commission the work of local artist Shelbi Nicole to install a mural on a utility box at West Fuqua at South Post Oak. Additionally, we added new greenery to the medians and installed 5 Corners-branded wayfinding signage at each intersection. For those who commute on foot, they can now read poetic excerpts etched into the pavement while waiting to cross the street. These beautification efforts make the commute more aesthetically pleasing while prioritizing safety for cyclists and pedestrians.
Prioritizing Safety
To address this problem, we modified the left turn lane by extending its length, allowing more cars to stay in the lane and reducing the number of frustrated drivers. We also updated the mast arms at the intersections to meet City of Houston standards of compliance. The mast arms are used to place traffic and street signs above the roadway for maximum visibility for drivers. Before these changes, the traffic signals were stan wired, which caused issues during hurricane season, such as breaking completely. Additionally, the improvements include the latest pedestrian-accessible push-button technology, including audio directions for street crossings.
This collaborative effort led to a beautification endeavor that provides a more aesthetically pleasing commute while instilling a sense of pride and prioritizing safety for cyclists and pedestrians. By coming together, TIRZ 25 and TIRZ 9 have shown their dedication to the residents and commuters who rely on this intersection daily. Their collective efforts pave the way for a more seamless traffic experience, reducing frustration and enhancing the overall quality of life.
To learn more about current and upcoming improvement projects, we encourage you to visit our website. There, you can find valuable updates, explore resources, and discover additional opportunities to contribute to the development of our community.