Willow Waterhole Greenway
Tucked away in the southwest Houston neighborhood of Westbury just south of Meyerland is a stunning gem of nature still relatively unknown to Houstonians. Willow Waterhole Greenway is a 300-plus-acre network of lakes, prairie, marsh, islands, native plants, wildlife, and park amenities. This unusual urban setting is designed to protect against Houston’s inevitable flooding and to bring the community together for conservation, education, and recreation.
FEATURED
Ribbon-Cutting at Westbury Lake Trail
The Westbury Lake Hike and Bike Trail was officially inaugurated on Saturday, April 13, 2024. Bill Burhans, President of the Willow Waterhole Greenspace Conservancy (WWGC), introduced Martha Castex-Tatum, City Council District K Member, and Licia Green, wife of Harris County Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis, who made remarks prior to the ribbon cutting.
It’s a great day in District K!
We are contributing to a healthier environment by preserving and enhancing our greenspaces.
Martha Castex-Tatum, Houston City Council Member, District K
New Signage Honors Long-Time Contributors
Just in time for the ribbon-cutting, new signage, in the works for over a year, was installed. The signage highlights the contributions of community leaders who have been involved with Willow Waterhole since its inception (or before), and those who have contributed monetarily to grow this jewel to its current state.
Bill Burhans, center, flanked by Licia Green and Martha Castex-Tatum and joined by long-time WWGC Board Members and officials from Harris County Flood Control and City of Houston Parks and Recreation, officially open the 3.5 mile Westbury trail.
In addition, way-finding signs have been added, pointing to the different trails and other amenities in the Greenway. More signage is to come at all of the lakes.
Spring at Willow Waterhole!
If you haven't visited the Waterhole recently, come witness the splendid display of wildflowers and trees. From our magnificent Texas bluebonnets to the more prosaic Philadelphia Fleabane (yes, that's its name), dewberry vines, redbuds to Red Maple and even thistles, beauty abounds wherever you gaze.
CONSERVANCY NEWSLETTER
Current & Past Issues
Winter 2023-2024
Flowers for a Lady: New Butterfly Sculptures
On Monday, October 23, Willow Waterhole Greenspace Conservancy President Bill Burhans unveiled three magnificent sculptures honoring Kathleen Tinsley Ownby for her long-time dedication to Houston parks. These elegant pieces of art were created by renowned artist Rosalinda R. Toro.
Shell Oil test facility redeveloped for floodwater detention and much more!
What happens when oil and water mix? In 2019, the city of Houston acquired the Shell Oil Co. test facility on Gasmer Dr. located adjacent to the Willow Waterhole Greenway. The intent was to create a floodwater detention basin. Today, the “Gasmer Dr. Redevelopment Master Plan” includes a system for stormwater capture and drainage that integrates the existing industrial structures and will become a recreational hub for the southwest region of Houston, with Levitt Pavilion Houston as its focal point.