The document provides updates on several master plan updates underway in Sugar Land, including the Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan, Master Drainage Plan, Water Master Plan, and Land Use Plan. It notes that public meetings will be held for residents to provide input on the draft Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan and encourages citizens to get involved when opportunities are provided. The updates are part of ensuring the city's long-term vision and policies are aligned with future development goals.

1. SPRING
2013
UNIVERSITY
BOULEVARD SOUTH
GRAND OPENING
A new 1.8-mile stretch of
University Boulevard South
from Commonwealth Boulevard to
the Riverstone Development opened
on Feb. 28. The new roadway is a
critical part of what will be a regionally
significant corridor for the Fort Bend
County area.
Continued/9
ELECTION CANCELED
C ity Council voted to cancel
this year’s May 11 election after
no additional candidates filed for a
TECHNOLOGY
position on the ballot, as allowed by
State law. ENHANCING PUBLIC SAFETY
Continued/3
Sugar Land was recently named America’s 20th Safest City and the second safest
city in Texas, a distinction based on an analysis of FBI crime statistics. Sugar Land
Police Chief Doug Brinkley credits a strong police presence, community partnerships
Citizen Bond
Committee Formed 4 and a commitment to technology for Sugar Land’s low crime rate.
Sugar Land maintains a proactive stance on public safety to protect its residents.
Master Plan Updates
5
A number of departments and divisions – including Emergency Management, Police,
Underway Fire, the Public Safety Dispatch Center and others – utilize advanced technology to
enhance public safety.
Fire Station No. 7
LEED Certified 6 Patrol cars are outfitted with cameras that are mounted on the dashboard. When
an officer gets out of the car and approaches a vehicle, both audio and video are
recorded. If something happens to the officer, the information captured may be used
10
New Neighborhood
as evidence.
Irrigation Zones
Continued/7
STAY Photo (clockwise): thermal imaging camera, red light cameras, dispatch center and patrol car
CONNECTED w w w. su g a r l a n d t x . g o v 1

2. D E AR X X SIX X X X X X
XXXX RE X DENTS
channel, we also strive to take in 2012, over 700 people have
advantage of innovative tools read Online Town Hall, and
to ensure all residents may over 100 people have written
communicate with us in the or supported statements – the
way that works best for them. equivalent of over five hours of
public comment.
City Goals
For instance, if you prefer • Safest City in America
in-person communication, we We also conduct citizen • Responsible City Government
regularly hold public meetings surveys – including a • Strong Local Economy
for our highest profile projects. statistically valid, citywide • Livable Neighborhoods
O
Most recently, we have survey on topics from • Mobility for People
ne of the things • Well-Planned Community
hosted meetings on initiatives public safety to solid waste
that makes local
such as the Pedestrian and to parks and recreation, as
government so City Council
Bicycle Plan Update, the well as those that are project
unique is how close it is to the James A. Thompson
proposed community sports specific. Additionally, we Mayor
people; it truly is the doorstep
park and the City’s Cultural provide forums for residents
of democracy. Though Donald L. Smithers
Arts Study. In the future, we to simultaneously learn and Mayor Pro Tem
officials in Austin, Texas, and
will be seeking input on the provide input – such as Sugar Single Member District One
Washington, D.C., work to
update to our Land Use Plan. Land 101; the Citizens Police, Himesh Gandhi
provide services to you each
Additionally, staff regularly Fire and Airport Academies; At-Large Position One
day, it is local governments
attends homeowner association and volunteer opportunities, Joe R. Zimmerman
that have the privilege of
meetings to provide updates ranging from helping walk At-Large Position Two
interacting directly with
on City projects, to answer dogs at Animal Services or Bridget R. Yeung
residents. Additionally, given
residents’ questions and to serving on the Citizen Bond Single Member District Two
the close proximity between
gather public input. Election Committee. Amy L. Mitchell
local governments and citizens, Single Member District Three
we also have the opportunity For those whose schedules It is our hope you will
Harish Jajoo
to hear from residents and prevent attendance at public continue to take advantage of Single Member District Four
businesses in meaningful ways meetings, we also regularly share these tools and communicate
on a daily basis. information on our website and your ideas, input and questions City Management
through social media outlets to us. Without a doubt, citizen Allen Bogard
Knowing the importance City Manager
such as Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, engagement is key to our
of citizen engagement cannot Karen Daly
YouTube and Pinterest. Further, success and instrumental in
be understated, city-elected Assistant City Manager
we have also begun utilizing a helping shape City policy.
officials and staff continue Karen Glynn
robust web-based public input Assistant City Manager
to recognize it as a top We look forward to hearing
system called Online Town Hall, Steve Griffith
priority. Not only do we from you!
which allows residents to provide Assistant City Manager
utilize traditional methods of
substantive feedback on projects
sharing information with the
such as the Crime Prevention Contributors
community – such as news
Camera System. Since its launch
releases and the SLtv16 cable Karen Glynn, Cathy Halka, Robin Hicks,
Jessica Luna, Jennifer May, Chris Mobley,
Regina Morales, Stephanie Russell,
Mara Soloway, Dawn Steph,
ADL COMMUNITY OF Christopher Steubing, Colleen Spencer,
Reena Varghese, Jason Vaughn, Pat Walsh,
RESPECT® AWARD David Worley
Named the nation’s first Community of Respect® in 2007, Communications Director: Pat Pollicoff
Editor: Alexi Holford
the City of Sugar Land was again recognized by the Anti- Design: Austin M. Pennington
Defamation League (ADL) for its ongoing commitment to
diversity and fostering an inclusive and respectful community. Comments
The award was presented to Mayor James Thompson (right) by By email:
pubinfo@sugarlandtx.gov
Ian Scharfman, vice chair of the southwest region of the ADL
By phone:
during a City Council meeting on March 5. (281) 275-2216
Sugar Land Today is published quarterly by
2 SUGAR LAND TODAY Sp r in g 2013
the City of Sugar Land.

3. 2013 ELECTION UPDATE
G OV E R N M E N T
CITYWIDE ELECTION WILL NOT BE HELD
Continued from cover
A May election to elect representatives to the Single Member Districts One, Two, Three and Four
has been canceled because no opponents filed by the March 1 deadline. As allowed by the Texas
Election Code, Sugar Land City Council voted on March 5 to certify that the unopposed candidates are
declared elected to the designated District offices as of May 21, 2013, and officially canceled the election.
Although elections will be held for other local races, the City saved $37,592 by canceling this election.
Stephen R. Porter, Council Member District One; Bridget R. Yeung, Council Member District Two; Amy L.
Mitchell, Council Member District Three; and Harish C. Jajoo, Council Member District Four will be declared as
elected to office for a two-year term when they are sworn into office on May 21. The terms will end in May 2015.
2013 COUNCIL MEMBERS
Single Member District One Single Member District Two Single Member District Three Single Member District Four
STEPHEN R. PORTER BRIDGET R. YEUNG AMY L. MITCHELL HARISH C. JAJOO
Steve Porter will become District Council Member Bridget Yeung Amy Mitchell will serve her Harish Jajoo will continue to
One Councilman, as outgoing will serve her second two-year second term as council member represent Single-Member
Mayor Pro Tem and Council term representing Single-Member for District Three. Mitchell is a District Four as council member
Member Don Smithers did not District Two. She is a principal with partner at Mitchell & Duff, LLC for a second term. Jajoo is a
seek re-election. Porter currently Fort Bend Financial, with over 25 and served on the Texas State registered civil engineer and urban
serves as president of Gannoway years’ experience in the financial Bar Grievance Committee. Her infrastructure professional who
Lake Estates Homeowners services industry. She currently community involvement includes has successfully managed public
Association, vice president of serves on the board of the Sugar participation in the Sugar Land works for the City of Houston
the Burney Road Municipal Land Cultural Arts Foundation, the Exchange Club, Sugar Land 101, for 29 years. He is also a certified
Utility District, a member of the City of Sugar Land 4B Corporation Citizens Police Academy and flood plain manager and very
City of Sugar Land Pedestrian and the City of Sugar Land Tax Citizens Fire Academy. Mitchell active in several professional and
and Bicycle Task Force and is Increment Reinvestment Zone 3. supports numerous non-profits community activities. His experience
currently participating in the Fort She is a past chairman of Sugar in Fort Bend and volunteers for working with municipalities includes
Bend Chamber of Commerce Land’s Planning and Zoning FBISD as a guest speaker and infrastructure and intergovernmental
Leadership Forum Class of 2013. Commission and the Fort Bend awards presenter. agency coordination.
Chamber of Commerce.
w w w. su g a r l a n d t x . g o v 3

4. G OV E R N M E N T
XXXXXXXXXXXXX
CITIZEN
COMMITTEE
FORMED FOR
BOND
ELECTION
T he City of Sugar Land has called for
a bond election in November for
up to $50 million in potential City park and
phasing opportunities and evaluating
funding. Each committee will focus on one
of the four quality-of-life projects. Final
trail projects. The election will allow citizens recommendations will be presented to City
to choose whether to invest in quality of life Council for consideration in June.
projects that will make Sugar Land an even
Baitland is the owner of Betty Baitland
more attractive destination for residents,
and Associates, Inc., a leadership consulting
businesses and visitors. The projects include: Co-chairs Jarvis Hollingsworth and Dr. Betty
firm focusing on public education. She
Baitland address the Citizen Bond Committee
„„ parkland development along the at the first meeting. served as the superintendent of Fort Bend
Brazos River that could include Independent School District from 2001 to
kayak launches and other new active Since the announcement of the bond 2006 and interim Stafford Municipal
(playgrounds, soccer fields) and passive election at the State of the City event in School District superintendent during
(green spaces, picnic areas) amenities; January, a Citizens’ Bond Committee has 2011. She served as an adjunct professor
been formed. An executive committee and at the University of Houston and Houston
„„ a network of hike and bike trails
two co-chairs will guide the overall process. Baptist University.
throughout the City that addresses
City Council appointed Jarvis Hollingsworth
recreational and mobility needs; Hollingsworth is a partner in the law firm
and Dr. Betty Baitland, both Sugar Land
of Bracewell & Giuliani LLP and counsels
„„ a festival site accommodating large- residents, to serve as co-chairs of the
boards of directors and trustees of public
scale events like the City’s annual Citizens’ Bond Committee. The Executive
and private companies and government
Fourth of July celebration and other Committee will also include John Heineman,
and educational entities on their duties,
cultural and entertainment events that Terri Wang, Tim Stubenrouch, Michael Schiff,
corporate governance and director liability
benefit the local economy; and Mona Parikh, Rodney Vannerson, Mary Favre
matters. He was elected vice chair of the UH
and Greg Stirman.
„„ a community sports park that could System Board of Regents for fiscal year 2013.
include a multi-use recreational facility Four subcommittees with 95 volunteer Hollingsworth was appointed to the board
and facilities for lacrosse, tennis, members are tasked with prioritizing the in 2009 by Texas Governor Rick Perry.
cricket and more. projects being considered, identifying
Final Open House for invited to provide feedback on the draft
plan, a document that is in its final stage.
investments, the plan will recommend
future strategies for partnering with local
Cultural Arts Study Throughout this project, extensive
organizations to further integrate cultural
arts into the community.
A final open house for the Cultural Arts research and public input has been
Strategic Plan and Implementation Guide is gathered. The plan defines a vision for arts For more information and to view the
scheduled for March 27, at 7 p.m., at Imperial and cultural development in Sugar Land and draft plan, visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/
Park Recreation Center, 234 Matlage Way. includes a prioritized “road map.” Building culturalarts or email
Residents and community stakeholders are upon the City’s existing vision and previous CulturalArtsStudy@sugarlandtx.gov.
4 SUGAR LAND TODAY Sp r in g 2013

5. X XG OV E R N MX X X X
XXXXXXX ENT
UPDATES TO
MASTER PLANS UNDERWAY
T he City of Sugar Land is currently updating several of its master plans. These
documents are used for policy guidance and decision making. They describe the
City’s approach for implementing the City’s Comprehensive Plan, a document that outlines
Sugar Land’s vision and sets the stage for future development. Of the City’s eight master
plans, five are currently being updated: Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan, Master Drainage
Plan, Water Master Plan, Municipal Facilities Master Plan and Land Use Plan. The City
encourages its citizens to provide input when the opportunity is offered.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan - A public meeting to At
review draft recommendations for the Pedestrian and Bicycle Master Plan is scheduled for Monday,
April 15, from 6 - 8 p.m., in the Cane Room at City Hall, 2700 Town Center Blvd. North. The draft
Constellation
plan identifies a citywide network for pedestrian and bicycle routes, focusing on connecting key
destinations and crossing major barriers. For more information about this master plan, call (281)
Field
275-2218, visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/pedbike, or email transportation@sugarlandtx.gov.
Vendor S O C I A L
Master Drainage Plan - The Master Drainage Plan update will
document drainage facility ownership and responsibilities, identify drainage improvements
Thursday, April 4, at Constellation Field
needed for flood protection and establish policy on detention pond maintenance. Residents
from 3:30 - 6:30 p.m.
may visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/drainage for more information, to sign up for email
updates and to submit a request for a Capital Improvement Project. For more information, Procurement professionals and
call (281) 275-2870 or email cityengineer@sugarlandtx.gov. vendors in the Fort Bend and greater
Houston areas are invited to this free
event. Various cities, counties and
Water Master Plan - Previously updated in 2007, the Water Master Plan
school districts will be represented.
documents policy direction specific to water planning and identifies the City’s long-range water
facility and infrastructure needs. The Water Master Plan update process is divided into two Contact Purchasing at (281) 275-2734
phases. Phase 1 took place in 2012 and focused on planning for growth and infrastructure needs or purchasing@sugarlandtx.gov for
to support new development. Phase 2 is this year’s focus and will utilize public input to refine more information.
water-related policies, such as water conservation and supply, and recommend implementation
projects. For more information on this project, visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/waterplan.
Batter Up!
Municipal Facilities Master Plan - The Municipal Facilities
Master Plan will identify the City’s long-term facility needs. This typically includes property
acquisition and building improvements necessary to serve the Police and Fire Departments,
Municipal Court, Parks, Public Works and other City operations. The plan will identify a set of
prioritized recommendations for addressing these needs.
Thursday, April 18, will be the
Land Use Plan - The Land Use Plan provides policy guidance and will identify first Skeeters game of the season. Going
future efforts necessary to accomplish the City’s land use goals and objectives. The update
up against the Long Island Ducks, the
process will utilize extensive public outreach and input to ensure the plan is informed by
Sugar Land Skeeters will
community preferences. The date for the first opportunity for public input through the
be on home turf at Constellation
Online Town Hall forum on the City’s website will be announced soon. For more information
Field. For ticket information, call
and to sign up for email updates, visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/landuseplan. Residents
281-240-HITS (4487).
may also send project inquiries to longrangeplanning@sugarlandtx.gov.
w w w. su g a r l a n d t x . g o v 5

6. X X X XT Y X X X X X X X
SAFE X X
FIRE STATION NO. 7 ACHIEVES LEED CERTIFICATION
Green design and construction features of the building. Products made from recycled
positively impact both the fire station and the content and Forest Stewardship Council
broader community. Buildings that are LEED (FSC)-certified wood were used. By planting
certified have many benefits: lower operating vegetation that is native to the area, the water
costs; reduced waste sent to landfills; energy required for irrigation was reduced by at least
and water conservation; healthier and safer 50 percent. Water consumption also will be
environment for occupants; and reduced harmful reduced with the installation of low-flow toilets,
greenhouse gas emissions. Buildings are LEED sink faucets and shower heads. Energy efficient
certified if they become more environmentally appliances will reduce energy consumption.
friendly by achieving a list of requirements for There are many other sustainable features of the
approved credits. The number of credits earned building that are described on plaques posted
determines the level of certification. throughout the fire station.
S ugar Land Fire Station No. 7
on Chatham Avenue in Telfair
recently achieved Leadership in Energy and
Several key sustainable features were
implemented in the construction of Fire
Station No. 7. Local building materials were
Achieving LEED certification is an important
milestone in the City’s efforts to reduce its
environmental footprint. To find out more about
Environmental Design (LEED) certification. incorporated. For example, all of the brick was LEED certification, visit the U.S. Green Building
This is the first LEED-certified City building. manufactured by a supplier within 500 miles Council’s website at http://new.usgbc.org.
PUBLIC SAFETY 2012 IN REVIEW
SUGAR LAND FIRE DEPARTMENT
Keeping Sugar Land’s residents safe is the number one priority of the Sugar Land Fire
Department (SLFD). In 2012, SLFD continued to strive for excellence in providing emergency
services that protect lives, health, property and the environment. The fire department
responded to 6,671 calls for service, including 4,109 emergency medical responses, 101
hazardous materials responses and 26 structural fires. The number of structural fires remains
a very low percentage of all fire calls. The average response time to calls in the City was 5.2
minutes and 5.5 minutes to calls in Extraterritorial Jurisdictions. Fire prevention officers actively
engaged with the community by providing 22 fire extinguisher trainings and 12 fire evacuation
drills to schools and businesses last year. Five new emergency medical technicians were
certified. The department also increased its firefighter training hours by 20 percent in 2012.
Safety, quality training and public education ensure Sugar Land remains a “Safe City.”
SUGAR LAND POLICE DEPARTMENT
Since 2008, Part 1 crimes in Sugar Land have dropped 18 percent. Part 1 crimes include
assault, auto theft, home and auto burglaries, homicide, shoplifting and robbery. Last year, Part
1 crimes in Sugar Land increased 8.6 percent from an all-time low in 2011. Burglaries are largely
responsible for this increase. The average response time to emergency calls in 2012 was 2:45
minutes, down from 2:56 in 2011 and 4:42 in 2009. To reduce residential burglaries, SLPD created
a task force that includes a criminal investigations division and crime prevention and patrol
officers. An additional officer was added to SLPD’s impact team, a group of officers who focus on
“hot spots” of criminal activity such as vehicle burglaries or residential burglaries. This team has
been successful in catching criminals before they commit crimes.
6 SUGAR LAND TODAY Sp r in g 2013

7. X X X X X X X X SAFE TX
XXXX Y
TECHNOLOGY
ENHANCING PUBLIC SAFETY
Continued from cover
Left to right: LPR cameras, Lieutenant Tomlinson demonstrating a thermal imaging camera, and a red light camera
Radios are essential to communication, calls 911, the dispatcher enters information introduction of the cameras has shown that
especially in emergency situations. Sugar into the system while talking to the caller. they are helpful tools in the identification of
Land Police and Fire Departments used the As the call is being entered, firefighters vehicles used in the commission of crimes.
High Tech Replacement Fund to reband and and police officers are receiving the report.
Much of the crime in Sugar Land is
reprogram radios and switch from analog Immediate action is taken. This system saves
committed by those who travel from outside
to digital radios. The City also received a lives by decreasing response time.
the community. New LPR systems will be
Homeland Security Grant for radio upgrades.
Traffic is another part of public safety installed on major streets and intersections
In 2012, the City replaced 43 mobile that requires numerous officers on the that lead into and out of the city. The use of
radios and 80 portable radios for the fire and street. Safe Light Sugar Land is a program LPR cameras for crime prevention gives SLPD
police departments. The analog radios that used to improve the safety of high-volume another valuable tool to help catch, arrest
were replaced were given to non-emergency intersections in the City. Since the installation and convict criminals. To find out more about
departments, such as Public Works, Animal of Sugar Land’s red light cameras, accidents the Crime Prevention Camera Program, visit
Services and Engineering. The upgraded have decreased more than 58 percent at www.sugarlandtx.gov/crimecameras.
digital radios make it possible for police targeted intersections. The analysis charts
Battling fires requires very specialized
officers and firefighters to access other City accident data back to 2009, when the last of
equipment. In order to see if there are
channels during emergency situations. This the current cameras were installed. Red light
people trapped in a burning building,
interoperability enhances teamwork during cameras also allow police officers to focus on
thermal imaging cameras are used. Infrared
disasters such as hurricanes or gas leaks. other important efforts, such as special teams
radiation is turned into visible light, allowing
that focus on burglaries and other areas of
Sugar Land’s state-of-the-art emergency firefighters to see areas of heat through
emphasis. More information on the Safe Light
notification system, Blackboard Connect, smoke and darkness.
Sugar Land program can be found on the
enables first-responders to quickly send
police department’s website at During a fire, a Telemetry Passive Alert
alerts and messages to the entire City or
www.sugarlandtx.gov/safelight. Safety System (TPASS) is used to maintain
specific target areas. Residents are urged
communication with each firefighter
to register their cell phones and emails Another valuable camera project uses
inside a burning building. The incident
at www.sugarlandtx.gov. Look for the License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology.
commander, who would be outside
Emergency Notification box on the left The LPR cameras scan license plates and
the structure, uses TPASS to identify the
hand-side of the homepage to sign up. notify officers of stolen vehicles, amber alerts
firefighters and monitor what is happening.
and more. For the last five years, SLPD has
In 2012, public safety dispatchers
been using LPR systems. Five mobile systems Keeping Sugar Land safe is the goal of
answered close to 50,000 emergency 911
were installed on police vehicles and three the City’s emphasis on technology, and with
calls, and 139,000 non-emergency calls using
fixed systems were installed at locations in smart people and smart technology, the City
computer-aided dispatch. When someone
the Town Square/First Colony Mall area. The continues to succeed.
w w w. su g a r l a n d t x . g o v 7

8. X X XB I X X X X X X X X X
M O X LI T Y
CONSIDERING
ROUNDAB UTS
T hroughout the nation within
the last few decades,
roundabouts (aka traffic circles) have
Unlike traffic signals,
become a popular alternative to four-way
roundabouts do not
stops. Roundabouts are even becoming involve hardware
a familiar sight here in Sugar Land. The
most notable intersection is the multilane
or major equipment
roundabout at Imperial Boulevard and installation.
Stadium Drive (near Constellation Field).
A single-lane roundabout is also located
on Savannah Heights Drive in Telfair, These studies showed that if a roundabout
and a new roundabout opened in had been constructed, these intersections
February at Lexington Boulevard and would have cut vehicle delays by 62 percent,
Oxbow Drive in First Colony. driver wait time by 325,000 hours and fuel
consumption by 235,000 gallons per year.
One of the major benefits of roundabouts Unlike traffic signals, roundabouts do
is increased safety. When two vehicles cross not involve hardware or major equipment
paths, an accident may occur. Roundabouts installation, saving money with lower
have fewer of these accident prone spots, with maintenance costs and a longer service life
only eight as opposed to 32 in a four-way stop. (approximately 25 years versus 10 years
with a traffic signal).
Since there is no need to stop in a
roundabout, traffic moves continuously. As roundabout intersections become
There are fewer delays and there is less more available in Sugar Land, residents
traffic than at stop lights. With no need to will see the benefits that roundabouts
idle at a red light, vehicles also use less fuel can provide, including improved
and produce lower emissions. The Institute travel conditions along city streets and
of Highway Safety completed case studies thoroughfares, while maintaining the
of 10 intersections where other intersection quality of life with the adjacent businesses
controls were used instead of roundabouts. and neighborhoods.
8 SUGAR LAND TODAY Sp r in g 2013

9. X X X X X X X XO B IX X X
M X X LI T Y
UPDATE S TO CITY ROAD PROJECTS
Sugar Land’s New Water Storage Tank
Great strides are being made on the new 2 million-gallon elevated storage tank that is
currently under construction along U.S. Highway 59 at the Brazos River. This will be the last
elevated storage tank needed to provide Sugar Land residents with a consistent water supply
as growth continues. Its location was selected based on Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
height clearance requirements for airport flight paths. The new tank is a composite elevated tank
that looks different than the existing spheroidal elevated tanks within the City. This tank consists
of a concrete pedestal and a steel bowl that will hold the water up to 160 feet above ground. This
new elevated tank required to maintain water system pressure throughout the service area.
The purpose of the project is to extend
Lexington Boulevard University Boulevard North University Boulevard from its current terminus
The roundabout at the intersection The City recently received authorization (in the vicinity of Sam’s Club) to U.S. 90A. The
of Lexington Boulevard and Oxbow Drive from the Texas Department of Transportation project includes construction of approximately
opened in February (see previous page). The to proceed with the University Boulevard 1,100 feet of four-lane divided roadway with
westbound leg of Lexington that connects to North project. The construction of this project a bridge crossing over Ditch H. This project
University Boulevard opened in early March after will complete the “University Boulevard Loop” is designed to increase mobility and reduce
completion of the road and bridge. Combined, as identified in the City’s Thoroughfare Plan. congestion in the general area. Construction
the total investment for this roadway section and The road will originate from U.S. Highway is anticipated to begin in April 2013 and be
intersection surpassed $4 million. These projects 90A at the north, extend through Telfair and completed in approximately nine months.
demonstrate the City’s commitment to existing Riverstone and connect to State Highway 6 at
residents while preparing for the growth and the southern end.
future development of our community.
U NIVERSI TY B O ULE VA R D S O U T H GR AN D OP E N IN G
Continued from cover
Construction for the project began in
February 2011 with funding from Fort Bend
County Mobility Bonds and the City of Sugar
Land’s Capital Improvement Program. The
new roadway includes four lanes divided by
a median, three bridges and traffic signals at
the intersections of University Boulevard at Council members, community leaders and residents cut the ribbon at the University Boulevard Sneak Peek event.
Commonwealth and University Boulevard at
for new businesses like Texas Instruments, Fluor current plans for the future Performing Arts
Elkins Road.
and Costco that recently relocated to the area. Center that will continue to build on successful
“University Boulevard is a great example venues that are making Sugar Land one of the
The newly expanded roadway provides
of the City’s efforts toward its goal of ‘Superior region’s premier destination locations.
additional access for vehicles, bicyclists and
Mobility,’” said City Manager Allen Bogard.
pedestrians to enjoy the Brazos River, where The City hosted a “Sneak Peek” event to
The project improves mobility by allowing the City is planning extensive parkland give residents a preview of the finished road.
motorists to avoid the more heavily travelled expansions that include a festival site for Residents gathered at Elkins Road and joined
State Highway 6 corridor. The University events. University Boulevard and the extension City officials for a short walk on the University
Boulevard extension was also an important factor of Lexington Boulevard are important to Boulevard expansion.
w w w. su g a r l a n d t x . g o v 9

10. SE RVX CE S X X X X X X
XXX I XXX
C I T Y I M P L E M E N T S IRRIGATION ZONE SCHEDULES
H ot and dry weather patterns are
characteristic of Sugar Land’s
summers, and residents are all too familiar
The Irrigation Zone Schedule has been
developed for simplicity. The City is divided
into four different zones. Neighborhoods The City recommends
with the cost of irrigating withering lawns may be in one or split between two zones,
and landscapes. The City of Sugar Land plans therefore neighbors will water on the same
that homeowners use the
for increased water demands during the days of the week. Following the schedule cycle and soak method,
summer months, drought and higher than allows more flexibility in the time of day you
normal temperatures. This means the City’s can water, however watering after 10 a.m.
an effective practice
water production and delivery facilities will and before 7 p.m. is strongly discouraged. that will help grass and
be working overtime to curb pressure drops
and provide water to meet high demands.
The City recommends that homeowners plants develop deeper
use the cycle and soak method, an effective
The water industry estimates that 50 practice that will help grass and plants
root growth.
percent of the water used for landscape develop deeper root growth. Deep roots
irrigation runs off lawns and into storm are vital to healthy, drought-tolerant lawns
drains. The reality is that we overwater our and landscapes. Plus, you will save on your
lawns and unintentionally waste water. The water bill. The Cycle and Soak Method works I R R I GATI O N ZO N ES
City’s new Irrigation Zone Schedule aims to well enough that watering twice a week is
reduce daily water demands and promote sufficient for a healthy and beautiful yard.
responsible water use year round. By following The City has an irrigation schedule in place
the voluntary two days-a-week irrigation zone that tells you which two days are designated
schedule, residents contribute to: for your neighborhood to water.
„„ reducing peak daily water demands; When using an automatic sprinkler,
calibrate it so that it is set to two 5-minute
„„ protecting the integrity and extending
cycles with an hour break between the
the lifespan of the City’s water wells
cycles. This strategy allows the water to
and infrastructure;
penetrate into the soil. A third 5-minute
„„ circumventing groundwater withdrawals cycle may be needed to reach depths of
to meet high peak demands; six to eight inches. If watered more than
that, the water does not have time to soak
„„ achieving long-term water
into the soil. Excess water runs off lawn,
conservation and reductions in per
into the street and down the storm drain.
capita water demand;
Essentially, the water is wasted.
„„ increasing irrigation efficiency This map illustrates the different irrigation
Your watering schedule can be found
throughout the City; zones in the City of Sugar Land. Find your
at www.sugarlandtx.gov/irrigation. If you
neighborhood watering days here:
„„ ensuring water is available for fire have any questions, please call the Water
www.sugarlandtx.gov/irrigation.
or emergency uses and adequate Utilities Department at (281) 275-2450.
drinking water.
10 SUGAR LAND TODAY Spring
Sp r in g 2013

11. SE RV I CE S
F I X THE DRIP DRINKING
WATER UPDATE
The average American household
unknowingly wastes more than 10,000
gallons of water each year. Across the
2 Fix simple leaks. Use inexpensive
pipe tape to stop leaks at fixture
connections. Remove the plumbing
The City of Sugar Land began
building a new Surface Water Treatment
country, household leaks can add up to more fixture, apply the tape and tightly Plant (SWTP) last year in order to meet
than 1 trillion gallons of water lost every screw the fixture back on. The tape the Fort Bend Subsidence District’s
year. The City of Sugar Land is proud to be a will seal the fixture and stop small mandated 30 percent reduction in
WaterSense partner, promoting water-saving leaks. Larger leaks may require a groundwater usage. The plant, expected
appliances, prompting residents to fix leaks professional. to be operational later this year, will
and encouraging the efficient use of water. supply 9 million gallons of drinking water
Be an advocate for water conservation and
start saving as much as 10 percent on your
3 If you cannot fix the drip, it may be
time to replace the fixture. Look for
WaterSense models that use at least
per day from the Brazos River through
the Oyster Creek canal system.
water bills with these three simple steps:
20 percent less water and perform as The City is changing the disinfectant
1 Check your home for leaks.
„„ Toilets – Add a few drops of food
well or better than standard plumbing
fixtures. For example, replacing an
old inefficient showerhead with a
used to clean water from chlorine to
chloramines. Sugar Land is not alone in
making this conversion. Houston, Missouri
coloring to the toilet tank and wait
WaterSense model can shrink your City, Fort Bend County WCID #2 and
15 minutes. Before flushing, check to
household’s water footprint by almost Pecan Grove have already made the change.
see if any colored water appears in
3,000 gallons annually while providing
the bowl. If so, your toilet has a leak. The change to chloramines will
a shower with power.
reduce the levels of disinfectant
„„ Faucets – Examine each faucet
More water conservation information byproducts in the water while still
in the house for drips to ensure
can be found on the City’s website at providing protection from disease.
water is not leaking.
www.sugarlandtx.gov under the However, the change to chloramines can
„„ Outside pipes and spigots – Water Utilities Department link. cause problems for people dependent
Check each outside spigot for You can also find water saving tips at on dialysis machines. It is important
drips and look for any areas in www.epa.gov/watersense. that dialysis units have some means,
the lawn that are always wet. such as a charcoal filter, of removing the
chloramine. Medical facilities should also
determine if additional precautions are
required for other medical equipment.
Call for Photos
Aquarium owners need to be aware
The City’s communication department
that chloraminated water may be toxic
encourages residents to submit photos
to fish. Make sure to use chemicals and/
of Sugar Land events, residents, parks
or filters that are designed for water that
and landmarks. Share them on the
has been treated with chloramines.
City’s Facebook and Flickr pages for our
next calendar and other publications For more information on this project,
by Oct. 18. Pictures can also be emailed call the Utilities Department at
to pubinfo@sugarlandtx.gov. (281) 275-2450.
w w w. su g a r l a n d t x . g o v 11

12. SE RVX CE S X X X X X X
XXX I XXX
UTILITY BILL PAYMENT OPTIONS
T he City of Sugar is pleased to offer
its residents several convenient
options to pay their water bills. If you
have any questions, you may call Treasury
at (281) 275-2750 or email Treasury@
sugarlandtx.gov for assistance.
Online - A simple and convenient option is to pay your bill online. Go to the City’s SUGAR LAND
website and click on Departments, scroll down to Treasury and click Pay Your Water Bill. In
order to log in, you will need to request a Personal Identification Number (PIN). Once you EARTH DAY
have access to your account, you will find a summary of your consumption as well as your
average daily usage, periodic usage and last meter reading. We accept American Express,
CELEBRATION
MasterCard or Visa. S AT U R D AY,
Automatic Bank Draft - To save time and avoid late fees, you can set up an APRIL 20
automatic draft from your checking or savings account. There is no cost to enroll. Payments are
drafted on the Friday before the due date each month. Customers still receive monthly bills to 10 A.M. - 3 P.M.
monitor water usage and as a reminder of the deduction. To enroll, complete the online bank
R E C Y C L E
draft form (www.sugarlandtx.gov/treasury/waterandwasteWaterPayments.asp).
C O L L E C T I O N E V E N T AT
By Phone - The City’s automated phone system provides account information and MERCER STADIUM
accepts Visa, MasterCard and American Express payments. To pay by phone, call (281) 275-2750.
ACCEPTED ITEMS INCLUDE:
In Person - Payments can be made at City Hall, 2700 Town Center Blvd. North • household electronics
during business hours (Monday-Thursday: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.). • paper for shredding
• clothing
• household goods
By Mail - To submit your payment by mail, send your check or money order and the for reuse
bill stub to Treasury, P.O. Box 5029, Sugar Land, TX 77487.
• BOPA:
Payment Depositories - „„ Sugar Land Police Station/Municipal Batteries,
Another option is to deposit your payments Court, 1200 Hwy. 6 South
Oil,
Paint, and
in one of the City’s six payment drop boxes.
„„ Fire Station No. 4, 2100 Austin Parkway Antifreeze
You can find them throughout Sugar Land in
the parking lots at the following locations: „„ Fire Station No. 3, 2255 Settlers Way
2 - 6 P.M.
„„ City Hall, 2700 Town Center Blvd. North „„ City Hall Fire Administration, 10405 ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVITY
Corporate Drive BOOTHS & PERFORMANCES
„„ Senior Center, 226 Matlage Way
ON THE PLAZA
Go Green with Paperless Billing! AT SUGAR LAND
TOWN SQUARE
Residents can now receive their water bills via email. After you sign up, you will receive
a paper statement for three months as well as the e-bill email. After this time, you will no
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
longer receive your bill in the mail. When you decide to go paperless, you will pay your bill
(281) 275-2450 or
online. Call Treasury at (281) 275-2750 or email treasury@sugarlandtx.gov to enroll.
www.sugarlandtx.gov/solidwaste.
To ensure that you receive the best service possible, please make sure that all of the
information on your water bill is up-to-date.
12 SUGAR LAND TODAY Sp r in g 2013

13. X X X X X X X X X X XCE S
SE RV I X X
RECYCLING The curbside recycling program now Be a Friend to Wildlife
accepts all colors of glass as well as green
SUCCESS waste. The addition of a green waste
program ensures all grass clippings, leaves,
IN 2012 brush, tree limbs, etc. will be recycled rather
than sent to a landfill. Prior to launching
the new program, residents recycled 34
pounds of waste per household per month.
This number jumped to 83 pounds per
household per month in 2012. Spring is in the air a little early this year,
giving urban wildlife a head start. Warmer
“The new solid waste and recycling
weather means that animals will soon be
program has been a huge success, which is
having babies. To avoid having a springtime
due to the residents accepting the changes
nursery, here are some tips to make sure
and educating themselves about what
the “No Vacancy” sign is clearly displayed.
should be recycled,” said Dawn Steph,
environmental manager. “The City is proud „„ Do not keep food for pets
of the response and dedication shown by outside overnight.
our residents and hopes it will continue to
„„ If you feed birds, take down or
increase our diversion rate!”
empty the feeder(s) each night.
S ugar Land residents are embracing
going green in a big way, nearly
tripling the amount each household recycles
Residents currently receive automated
recycling collection once per week utilizing
a city-issued 35-, 65- or 95-gallon recycling
Sweep up any seed on the ground,
if possible, as it will attract nocturnal
animals like raccoons and opossums.
over totals from just a year ago. In 2012, carts. Green waste collection is also The feeders can be put out again or
residents recycled more than 12,655 tons provided weekly. Green waste materials refilled in the morning for the birds.
of trash, including 5,811 tons of recycled such as grass clippings and leaves should
„„ Repair any holes in roofing or
material and 6,844 tons of green waste. That be placed in a reusable container or in tied
eaves before wildlife finds them
translates to more than 32 percent of the City’s bags; compostable bags are not required.
and moves in.
residential waste being diverted from landfills.
For more information on City of
Sugar Land expanded its recycling program in „„ Install a chimney cap.
Sugar Land’s recycling program, visit
December 2011. Residents quickly embraced
www.sugarlandtx.gov/solidwaste. „„ Trim tree branches away from the
the new easier recycling, helping Sugar Land
house to minimize access for animals
become a greener community.
to your roof.
„„ Keep trash and garbage around your
yard contained and picked up.
ENERGY CONSERVATION PROJECT PAYS OFF
„„ Keep compost in a container.
Sugar Land’s project to reduce energy The City of Sugar Land contracted with „„ Close off crawl spaces under porches,
consumption saved the City $85,137 in McKinstry to design and construct the decks and sheds. Wildlife will use
2012, exceeding expectations by $20,000. improvements, which consisted primarily these as dens for resting and raising
In 2010, the City applied for and received of interior and exterior lighting changes their young.
funding from the Department of Energy at nine of the City’s largest facilities as
„„ F
ence gardens, pick up fallen fruit
to implement a program to decrease the well as building automation system
and NEVER feed wildlife.
City’s use of electricity. Since the project enhancements at the police and court
was completed in 2011, Public Works facility. Building automation systems ensure Spring into action quickly and make
and McKinstry Essintion, Inc. have closely that office temperatures and lights are sure your home is not a stop for wildlife.
monitored the improvements and the adjusted according to need – for example, For more tips or for help with wildlife
associated electric consumption. thermostats set according to work schedules issues, call Animal Services at
and motion-activated lights. (281) 275-A-DOG (2364).
w w w. su g a r l a n d t x . g o v 13

14. X XRV IX X X X X X X X X
?????????????????
SE X X CE S
2013 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT LIST
(includes carryover projects)
CIP No. PROJECT TITLE CIP No. PROJECT TITLE CIP No. PROJECT TITLE
AP1001 Runway Rehab/Repair ST1203 Comprehensive Mobility Plan WA1007 University Blvd South 20" Water
AP1002 Smithville Land Acquisition ST1204 Hwy 6 Improvements-Brooks St Line
AP1201 Parallel Taxiway Relocation to Lexington Blvd WA1101 Utility Security Phase III
AP1202 Runway / Approach Lighting ST1205 Sweetwater Reconstruction WA1103 Motor Controls - Woodchester
AP1204 Terminal Parking Lot Expansion ST1207 University Blvd N to Imperial WP & Other Wells
AP1301 Airport Storage Hangers ALD #4 ST1302 Sidewalk Rehabilitation WA1201 Water Master Plan Update
and ALD #11 ST1303 Pavement Rehabilitation WA1202 Water Storage Tank Rehabilitation
DR0803 Sugar Mill Drainage ST1304 Design Standard Update w/ WA1203 Distribution System Water Main
Improvements Phase II Comprehensive Mobility Plan Rehab Program
DR1001 Sugar Creek Drainage ST1305 Street Reconstruction WA1204 River Park Interconnect
Improvements Phase II TR1003 Rail Monitoring WA1205 Automated Meter Reading
DR1202 Oyster Creek Remapping TR1004 Traffic Signal Management/ITS WA1206 Evaluate & Replace Defective
DR1204 Ragus Lakes Drainage TR1102 Wayside Horn-Prison Drive Hwy 59 Waterline Crossings
DR1301 Localized Drainage TR1103 Wayfinding Phase I (TxDOT WA1207 Well Rehabilitation
Improvements Routes) WA1301 Elevated Storage Tank Rehab
DR1302 Covington Woods Drainage TR1201 Street Light Replacement WA1302 Well Rehabilitation
Improvements TR1202 Traffic Evaluation & Safety WA1303 Elevated Storage Tank
MU1105 Land Acquisition - Telfair Option Improvements Interconnect Improvements
Tract TR1301 Government / Community & WA1304 Austin Parkway Groundwater
MU1106 District 1 License Plate Destination Signage Plant Booster Pump Rehabilitation
Recognition TR1302 Long Lines Pavement Markings SW0801 Surface Water Conversion
MU1201 Facility Renovations Upgrade Transmission Line (A-2)
MU1202 Public Works Service Center TR1303 Wayfinding Phase II (Local Routes) SW0802 Surface Water Treatment Plant
MU1203 Facilities Master Plan Update TR1304 Reed Rd. at Jess Pirtle Wireless SW0804 Non-Potable Water Opportunities
MU1205 Concert Venue Communications SW1001 Water Plant Upgrades for Surface
MU1301 PARD Demolition & Relocation to TR1305 Traffic Evaluation and Safety Water Conversion
Admin Annex Improvements SW1101 North WWTP Reclaimed Water
MU1302 Public Works Service Center TR1306 US 59 at SH 99 U-Turn SW1201 Non-Potable Reuse Study for
MU1303 Facility Renovations Deceleration Lane Extension South WWTP & Riverstone
PK0902 U.S. Highway 59 Beautification WW0802 Collection System Rehabilitation SW1202 SCADA Communication
Phase III Program Conversion
PK1103 Town Center Pedestrian and WW0901 WWTP Diversion North to West SW1203 SWTP O&M Manual and SOP
Bicycle Project WW1001 NWWTP Chlorine Bldg. and Gray SW1301 SWTP Computerized
PK1104 Brazos River Park – Phase II Water System Maintenance Management
PK1203 SH 6 Landscape Rehabilitation WW1002 Lift Station Rehab Design/ System
PK1204 ROW Planting & Irrigation Rehab Construction SW1302 SWTP Study and Tracer Testing
PK1206 Telfair Park Development WW1101 Collection System Rehabilitation SW1303 AMIL Gates Replacement Study
PK1301 Parks Assessment Program SW1304 Surface Water Treatment Plant
WW1103 Lift Station Rehabilitation Raw Water Monitoring System
PK1302 ROW Planting & Irrigation Rehab WW1201 Lift Station Rehabilitation SW1305 Sugar Lake Non-potable Water
PK1303 Park Infrastructure Rehabilitation WW1301 Lift Station Rehab - 2013 Pump Station Construction
PK1305 Mayfield Park Improvements WW1302 Replace Odor Control SW1306 SWTP Membrane Acceptance
PK1306 Canoe Launch on the Brazos Equipment at NWWTP and LRV Demonstration Testing
PK1307 Ditch A-22 Hike & Bike Trail WW1303 Rehab of 24-In FM Lexington LS
ST0701 Lexington Boulevard to Sweetwater LS
WW1304 WWTP Nutrient Removal, LEGEND
ST0703 Burney Road Widening Loading Capacity & Dissolved
Airport Surface Water
ST0801 Dulles Ave Oxygen Study
ST0802 Meadowcroft WA0503 2 MG Elevated Storage Tank Drainage Traffic
ST0805 University Boulevard Thru Brazos WA0901 Groundwater Well Replacement Municipal Water
Landing WA0902 Sugar Creek Replacement Well Parks Wastewater
ST0901 University North Streets
14 SUGAR LAND TODAY Sp r in g 2013