Mayor John Whitmire proclaimed Jan. 14, 2025, Vogel Creek Community Champions Day in Houston to recognize a volunteer group and the partners who helped create the Vogel Creek Greenway and related flood-detention and recreation features.

The proclamation, introduced by Council member Amy Peck, credited the Vogel Creek Community Champions with organizing more than 2,500 resident engagements, donating bicycles and running events, bus tours, safety walks and other programs that the city said increased use and stewardship of the greenway. "They are tireless, they're creative, they're joyful, and they are deeply committed to their community," Beth White, president and CEO of Houston Parks Board, said at the ceremony.

Why it matters: City leaders framed the Vogel Creek Greenway as both a neighborhood amenity and a flood-detention project that addresses recurring flooding while creating new open space. White said the project is intended as a model for volunteer-led, public–private park stewardship and noted funding from Be Well Acres Homes, an initiative of the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, supported the champions' effort to become self-sustaining.

City and partner roles: White identified several partners involved in the project and outreach, including Houston Parks and Recreation Department, Houston Public Works, Harris County Precinct 1 and the Brown Foundation; she also thanked the Houston Police Department North Division for its role in safety and enforcement. The Parks Board said the Vogel Creek Greenway is a finalist for the Urban Land Institute's 2025 Development of Distinction Awards and asked the public to cast a vote at houston.uli.org.

Council remarks and community: Several council members praised the volunteers and urged residents to use the trails. "Y'all go to Vogel Creek. It is a gem," Council member Greg Alcorn said. Council member Amy Peck said the group supports the neighborhood and nearby Eisenhower High School, whose choir performed at the event.

The mayor's proclamation closes by commending the group's work in strengthening neighborhoods and encouraging future generations to use and protect Houston's trails and green spaces.

Proclamation action: Mayor Whitmire read and signed the proclamation declaring Jan. 14, 2025, Vogel Creek Community Champions Day in Houston.