Houston Planning Commission reviews proposed changes to Major Thoroughfare and Freeway Plan

HOUSTON ' At 1:15 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 21, the Houston Planning Commission met at the City Hall Annex for a workshop on proposed amendments to the city's Major Thoroughfare and Freeway Plan (MTFP), hearing staff presentations on three corridor changes and taking public comment. No formal votes were taken; commissioners will consider final recommendations at the commission's Sept. 21 meeting.

The staff presentation was led by Wilson Calvert, planner, who described proposed changes to multiple MTFP segments and staff recommendations. "Only items with updates were placed on today's agenda," Calvert said, and he walked commissioners through each change and the reasoning behind staff recommendations.

The workshop matters because the MTFP determines future road classifications and right-of-way widths that affect development patterns, traffic safety and access for property owners.

Chimney Rock Road: staff opposes speed cushions, will pursue other measures

The commission heard a request to permit traffic-calming measures on Chimney Rock Road between San Felipe and Westheimer in the Galleria area. Calvert said staff is not supporting the applicant's request for speed cushions because "the traffic volumes are excessive" for that type of treatment, identifying vehicle volumes of about 16,000 vehicles per day for the section presented. He said staff will "work with Council Member Hoffman's office and Houston Public Works to identify what things are possible," such as a speed-limit sign with…