Residents across western Harris County Precinct 4 are seeing tangible improvements in roadway safety and traffic flow, thanks to six recently completed intersection upgrades led by Commissioner Lesley Briones. These projects reflect Precinct 4’s commitment to public safety, traffic efficiency, and long-term connectivity as part of a larger strategy to build a more accessible and resilient transportation network.

The completed intersections—located along Fry Road, Mason Road, South Fry Boulevard, Greenhouse Road, Park Row, and Morton Ranch Road—were selected based on their inclusion in Harris County’s High Injury Network, a data-driven map of areas with high rates of severe traffic injuries and fatalities. Each location now features design enhancements that support smoother driving conditions, safer crossings, and better access for all road users.

“This work represents Commissioner Briones’ commitment to advancing safety and connectivity in communities where families live, work, and go to school,” stated the Office of Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones.

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Improving Traffic Conditions Where It Matters Most

According to officials, each intersection received tailored upgrades based on community needs, traffic patterns, and growth projections:

1. Fry Road and Morton Ranch Road

• Start Date: February 2022

• Why it was prioritized: This intersection is located in a rapidly developing area where residential and commercial growth has led to increased traffic congestion. The volume of daily commuters warranted immediate improvements to reduce delays and enhance safety.

• Upgrades completed: Installation of dedicated northbound and southbound right-turn lanes, upgraded traffic signal systems, new pavement markings, accessible ramps for pedestrians, and enhanced signage.

• Project Cost: Approximately $1,352,000

• Completion: February 2025

2. Mason Road and Highland Knolls Drive

• Start Date: February 2022

• Why it was prioritized: As a high-traffic intersection adjacent to major retail destinations like H-E-B, this location experiences frequent congestion, especially during peak shopping hours.

• Upgrades completed: Construction of dedicated right-turn lanes on both northbound and southbound approaches, each with 250-foot storage lengths to accommodate high vehicle volumes and prevent backups into through lanes.

• Project Cost: Approximately $830,495

• Completion: February 2025

3. South Fry Boulevard and Westgreen Boulevard

• Start Date: March 2022

• Why it was prioritized: This intersection was selected to address growing delays and vehicle queuing issues, particularly during school commute times and weekend traffic surges.

• Upgrades completed: Addition of a 250-foot northbound left-turn lane, conversion of a southbound through lane into a dedicated right-turn lane, and full modernization of the intersection’s traffic signals.

• Project Cost: Approximately $512,192

• Expected Completion: March 2025

4. South Fry Road and Westheimer Parkway

• Start Date: February 2022

• Why it was prioritized: Located near busy subdivisions and thoroughfares, this intersection often served as a chokepoint during morning and evening commutes.

• Upgrades completed: Extension of existing dual southbound left-turn lanes, construction of a new eastbound left-turn lane, and updated signal timing to improve throughput and intersection efficiency.

• Project Cost: Approximately $369,820

• Completion: March 2025

5. Greenhouse Road and Park Row

• Start Date: April 2021

• Why it was prioritized: With its proximity to major commuting corridors and employment centers, this intersection required capacity enhancements to manage daily vehicle demand.

• Upgrades completed: Design and construction of two southbound left-turn lanes, along with extension of existing eastbound, westbound, and northbound left-turn lanes to 250 feet to ease turning movements and minimize gridlock.

• Project Cost: Approximately $486,692

• Completion: March 2025

6. Morton Ranch Road at Old Katy Hockley Cut Off Road

• Start Date: August 2021

• Why it was prioritized: As new neighborhoods and developments rise along Morton Ranch Road, this project was necessary to accommodate higher traffic volumes and reduce wear on aging infrastructure.

• Upgrades completed: Full reconstruction of existing asphalt pavement with durable concrete, addition of a new eastbound travel lane, installation of ADA-compliant accessible ramps, sidewalk construction for pedestrian safety, and significant drainage improvements to reduce flooding risks.

• Project Cost: Approximately $1,360,144

• Completion: March 2025

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Part of a Vision for Zero Traffic Deaths

These projects also reinforce Harris County's adoption of the Vision Zero initiative, an international movement that aims to eliminate all traffic-related deaths and serious injuries by 2030. By focusing on engineering improvements, data-driven planning, and community engagement, Vision Zero promotes a transportation system that protects residents of all ages and abilities, including those who walk, bike, or rely on public transit.

Commissioner Briones’ approach prioritizes equity, safety, and accessibility—recognizing that a safer road system benefits everyone, especially vulnerable users.

Better Roads, Safer Commutes for Western Harris County

These intersection upgrades are part of a broader push by Commissioner Lesley Briones to build a safer, more connected transportation network across Harris County Precinct 4. In addition to easing congestion and enhancing traffic flow, many of these projects—such as those at Morton Ranch Road and Old Katy Hockley Cut Off—include ADA-accessible ramps and new sidewalk connections that improve walkability for residents of all ages and abilities.

This work complements the precinct’s ambitious Sidewalks 4 Precinct 4 initiative, which recently celebrated the completion of 50 miles of new sidewalks in just one year. With a focus on student safety, accessibility, and equitable infrastructure, the program is transforming how people move throughout neighborhoods, especially in high-need areas like Cy-Fair ISD.

“These sidewalks are a promise that we will keep delivering for our kids’ safety and future,” said Commissioner Briones.

Looking Ahead

These intersection improvements, alongside expanded sidewalk infrastructure, mark a step forward in Precinct 4’s efforts to address traffic congestion and pedestrian safety. As development continues across western Harris County, these projects lay the groundwork for a more connected and accessible transportation network, with additional initiatives expected to follow in the months ahead.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.