As a concerned resident of Spring, Texas, I am writing this petition to voice our collective concerns about the proposed development of Paragon Place. This 50-acre mixed retail and apartment complex is planned for the property just across Gosling from McKenzie Park. We strongly believe that allowing this development to proceed will have detrimental effects on our community in terms of flooding risks, traffic congestion, water supply concerns, overcrowded schools, and increased crime.

Living in close proximity to McKenzie Park has been a blessing for many families in our neighborhood. It provides us with a safe haven where we can enjoy nature's beauty while fostering a sense of community among residents. However, the construction of Paragon Place threatens to disrupt this harmony and put our homes at risk.

Flooding is already an issue that plagues Spring due to its geographical location and susceptibility to heavy rainfall. The proposed development could exacerbate these problems by increasing impervious surfaces such as concrete and asphalt that prevent natural water absorption into the ground. This can lead to more frequent flooding events affecting not only the new complex but also surrounding neighborhoods. There are no retention ponds currently planned for Paragon Place and the new buildings will be required to be built on an elevation. That means the water will flow down towards the older neighborhoods and increase their flood risk.

Furthermore, traffic congestion is already a major concern along Gosling Road during peak hours. Adding more retail spaces and apartments without proper infrastructure improvements will only worsen this problem. Increased traffic not only leads to longer commute times but also poses safety risks for pedestrians and cyclists in our community. Four traffic lights are currently proposed to be added along Gosling Road to compensate for the 2,000+ parking spaces planned in the Paragon Place development!

Water supply concerns are another crucial aspect that needs careful consideration before approving Paragon Place's construction. The current infrastructure is not be equipped to handle additional demand from such a large-scale development. Based on the most recent studies, if Paragon Place is annexed into the Encanto Real Utility District, it will increase the water capacity usage from 65% to 97%, well over the recommended 70% cap! In order to increase the necessary water facilities for the Paragon Place development, taxpayers will need to pay an estimated $20 million to increase their water capacity. 

The impact on local schools cannot be overlooked either; overcrowding due to an influx of new residents could negatively affect educational quality for all students involved. Our children deserve the best possible education, and this development could compromise that. With an average of 1.5 children per household, the 900+ planned units in Paragon Place could cause an influx of 1,350 additional students to flood the Klein school district, which has aready applied for multiple classrom size waivers.

Lastly, the potential increase in crime associated with a large apartment complex is a significant concern for our community's safety. While we acknowledge that crime can happen anywhere, it is crucial to consider the strain on local law enforcement resources and the potential impact on our sense of security. Without additional funding to our local emergency and safety services, they will not be able to support the 900+ units in the Paragon Place development.

We urge decision-makers to listen to our concerns and prioritize the well-being of Spring's residents. We believe that alternative solutions can be explored which would benefit both economic growth and preserve the quality of life we cherish in our neighborhood.

By signing this petition, you are joining us in urging local authorities to reconsider approving Paragon Place. Together, let's protect our community from flooding risks, traffic congestion, water supply concerns, overcrowded schools, and increased crime. Our voices matter – let them be heard!

Thank you for your support!