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Designing Communities With Families in Mind When people think about community development, they often picture roads, utilities, and property lines. But behind every neighborhood is a team of professionals making decisions that will impact families for generations to come. At Colony Ridge, engineering is about much more than designing lots. It’s about designing places where people will build their lives. Recently, one of our lead engineers shared the philosophy he teaches every new engineer who joins the team: “When you are designing a neighborhood, you have to imagine that it’s you living in one of these lots. Imagine what it’s like to drive down one of these roads and pull into the house. Imagine how you would feel during a storm. What would you be concerned about? Because at the end of the day, even though we are designing lots, we are designing for people.” Engineering requires technical expertise, but creating a successful community requires empathy. Before roads are mapped and infrastructure is designed, our team considers the everyday experiences of future residents. They think about the parents driving home after work, children playing outside, and families creating memories in the homes they build. Questions like these help guide the design process: Will residents feel safe and comfortable here? How will the neighborhood function during heavy rain or severe weather? How can we create a community that serves future generations? These are the kinds of considerations that shape long-term planning decisions. Communities are not built overnight. They grow and evolve over decades. That is why our engineering team looks beyond immediate needs and considers what a neighborhood will be like 10, 20, or even 30 years into the future. As our engineer explained: “We always think about the end user. We always think about the customers and the families. What’s it going to be like for the people that live there? What’s it going to be like for their kids when they grow up and still live there? What’s going to happen in 20 years? Is it still going to be a place I would want to live?” By asking these questions, the team focuses on creating neighborhoods that remain strong, functional, and welcoming as they grow. At Colony Ridge, our mission has always been about creating opportunities for families. While engineering plans and development projects are important, the ultimate goal is simple: create communities where people can build a future for their families. Every road, every drainage system, every neighborhood layout, and every development decision is made with residents in mind. Because in the end, communities are not defined by infrastructure alone. They are defined by the families who live there, the memories they create, and the future they build together. That’s why our team approaches every project with one important question: “Would this be a place I would want to call home?”

The Importance of Community Connections In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in our busy schedules and daily responsibilities. Between work, school, and countless commitments, we often forget how important it is to connect with the people around us. Yet some of life’s most meaningful moments happen when we take the time to build relationships within our communities. A strong community is built on connection. It’s the friendly wave from a neighbor, the conversation at a local event, the helping hand offered during a difficult time, or the friendships formed through shared experiences. These simple interactions may seem small, but together they create a sense of belonging that can have a lasting impact on individuals and families alike. Community connections help us feel supported. When we know the people around us, we are more likely to lend a helping hand and receive one when we need it. Whether it’s celebrating milestones together, supporting local businesses, volunteering, or simply checking in on a neighbor, these connections strengthen the bonds that make a community thrive. For children, growing up in a connected community provides valuable opportunities to learn, grow, and develop meaningful relationships. They see firsthand the importance of kindness, teamwork, and caring for others. They learn that they are part of something bigger than themselves and that their actions can positively impact those around them. Community connections also foster a sense of safety and trust. When neighbors know one another, they look out for each other. Local businesses become gathering places. Community events bring people together and create opportunities for friendships to flourish. These relationships help transform a neighborhood into a place people are proud to call home. The good news is that building community doesn’t require grand gestures. It starts with small acts of kindness. Introduce yourself to a new neighbor. Attend a local event. Support a local business. Volunteer your time. Strike up a conversation with someone you meet. Each interaction helps strengthen the fabric of the community. At the heart of every great community are the people who choose to show up, support one another, and build meaningful relationships. When we invest in our connections, we create a stronger, more welcoming place for everyone. Because a community isn’t just where we live—it’s the people we share it with. About Colony Ridge Colony Ridge is a residential land development company in Liberty County, Texas, offering land ownership to families across the greater Houston area. Its communities in Cleveland, TX are among the fastest-growing in Southeast Texas, built around a commitment to connection, local business support, and welcoming environments for residents throughout Liberty County.

Home Is Possible Here: How Colony Ridge Is Opening Doors for Everyday Families For thousands of families across the greater Houston area, the idea of owning land — of having a place that truly belongs to them — has long felt just out of reach. Rent keeps climbing. Loans come with barriers. And the dream of building something real, something lasting, seems to belong to someone else. Since 2011, Colony Ridge has developed land in Liberty County and built one of the fastest-growing communities in Texas — home to an estimated 60,000 residents who chose to plant roots here. They came from apartments, from rental homes, from places that never quite felt like theirs. They came because Colony Ridge offered something different: an actual path forward. Veronica is one of those residents. Like so many others, she spent years wanting a home of her own and hitting wall after wall.“I basically almost gave up,” she said.But she didn’t. Today, Veronica has a place to call home — and she’s running her own business there, too. When she talks about what made that possible, she doesn’t hesitate.“What the owners of this land did — they opened the door for the American dream. I know if I would have tried to do this in another city, I don’t think I would have got the blessing, got the opportunity.”Veronica’s story is one of many. Built for People Who Were Left Out Colony Ridge was founded by John Harris and his brothers — and for John, this work has never been just business. It’s personal.“We were in the situation of a lot of our customers,” John said. “I get to help a lot of other people that are in the same situation, and kind of give them a little bit of a head start. We want to be the family that helps.”“There’s so many people that are struggling,” John reflected. “There are apartment complexes and trailer parks that are full of people that wish they could own something. We are willing to work with people that don’t have that opportunity anywhere else.”One resident summed it up simply: “I was tired of renting.” So he and his family saved every penny, moved onto their Colony Ridge property in August 2024, and haven’t looked back. “This came straight out of our pockets. We hustled. And since we’ve been here full time, it has been a blessing.”

Small Businesses Are Growing in the Communities Developed by Colony Ridge As Colony Ridge continues expanding in Northeast Houston, small businesses are growing right alongside the communities it builds. What began as a vision for affordable land ownership has evolved into a thriving master-planned development — one that is creating real, everyday opportunity for entrepreneurs, local service providers, restaurants, and family-owned businesses. Located along the Grand Parkway corridor, the communities developed by Colony Ridge are home to an estimated 60,000+ residents within a five-mile radius, with hundreds of new residential lots sold each month. That continued growth is driving consistent demand for the kinds of businesses that make daily life easier — retail stores, food establishments, healthcare providers, home service contractors, and more. Growth Creates Opportunity One of the biggest reasons small businesses are finding success here is straightforward: a growing community needs more of everything. As more families put down roots in Northeast Houston, the demand for nearby goods and services grows with them. From convenience stores and local restaurants to childcare providers and home contractors, business owners are finding an expanding and loyal customer base — neighbors who want to shop and eat and hire close to home. National brands have already taken notice, but so have local entrepreneurs. The communities developed by Colony Ridge now include a growing mix of retail, dining, healthcare, and service-based businesses — and there is still room for more. Building Something Meaningful For many of the entrepreneurs operating here, opening a small business is about more than revenue. It’s about creating something for their family, serving people they know, and investing in the same community they call home. As Colony Ridge continues developing infrastructure, parks, and commercial spaces, small businesses are becoming an integral part of what makes these communities feel complete. Many business owners live here themselves — which means the work they do every day directly benefits the neighbors right next door. What the Future Looks Like With residential expansion continuing at a steady pace, commercial development in the communities built by Colony Ridge is expected to grow alongside it. The location along the Grand Parkway corridor positions the area as an emerging business destination in Liberty County and the broader Northeast Houston region. As more families arrive and more roots are planted, small businesses will keep playing a central role in shaping what these communities become — creating jobs, providing services, and helping turn a growing development into a place for people to build their futures.

Rapid Growth in Colony Ridge Communities Is Opening the Door for Commercial Development Colony Ridge Communities- Located just off SH 99 (The Grand Parkway) in Northeast Houston, Colony Ridge has developed one of the fastest-expanding master-planned communities in Texas. Spanning more than 34,000 acres, the company’s continued residential development is now generating significant demand for commercial services throughout the area. Over the last several years, Colony Ridge has experienced substantial growth. Since 2020 alone, six new schools have opened to serve the growing population, with a seventh campus—a new high school—currently under construction. Long-term plans include more than 20 educational campuses throughout the community, further reinforcing commitment to supporting families and long-term development. As new schools, neighborhoods, and amenities continue to expand, so does the need for essential commercial services. Grocery stores, restaurants, medical offices, retail centers, entertainment venues, automotive services, childcare providers, and professional offices are all in growing demand as thousands of new residents continue to move into the area each year. Today, the Colony Ridge community includes more than 13,220 completed homes, supporting an estimated population of approximately 60,000 residents within a 5-mile radius. With an average household size of 4.3 residents, the community continues to experience strong population density and sustained consumer demand. Colony Ridge currently sells approximately 100 residential lots each week and adds more than 100 new homes every month. This consistent expansion creates a unique environment for commercial investment, where businesses have the opportunity to establish themselves early within a rapidly developing market. The strategic location of Colony Ridge Communities also contributes to its commercial appeal. Positioned near major transportation corridors including SH 99 (The Grand Parkway), the community offers convenient regional access for residents, commuters, and businesses alike. Community leaders believe the future of Colony Ridge Communities extends far beyond residential development. The vision includes creating thriving, self-sustaining communities where residents can live, work, shop, dine, and enjoy entertainment close to home. Commercial growth plays a vital role in that vision by bringing jobs, services, and economic opportunity directly into the community.

Free Community Events Near Houston This Summer | Colony Ridge Communities Cleveland, TX We are so excited to share that this summer is going to be packed with fun, connection, and community celebration! Our goal is simple: bring people together, create lasting memories, and make sure everyone has access to great experiences—at no cost. All of our summer events are completely free and designed for families, friends, and neighbors. This summer, the community is coming together for a season full of fun, connection, and unforgettable memories during our Summer Series events! One of the biggest highlights of the series is our free community concerts, featuring live music, great energy, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. Whether you’re coming to relax, dance, or simply enjoy a summer evening with neighbors and friends, these concerts are the perfect way to celebrate the season together. The excitement continues with a variety of family-friendly activities planned throughout the summer. Join us for Splash Pad Story Time on Friday, June 26, 2026, where local teachers will be reading stories at the POA splash pad for children and families to enjoy together. We’ll also be hosting fun-filled Lotería Game Nights on Saturday, June 13, 2026, complete with prizes, treats, and plenty of community fun. Outdoor movie nights and many more exciting events are also planned throughout the season. We’re also preparing for one of the most anticipated celebrations of the year — our 4th of July Fireworks Show! This spectacular event will light up the sky and bring the community together for a patriotic evening filled with excitement, celebration, and summer spirit. From concerts and games to movies and fireworks, our Summer Series is all about bringing neighbors together, creating lasting memories, and celebrating the joy of community all season long. Stay Tuned for More Details We’ll be sharing more information soon, including dates, times, and event locations—so make sure to stay tuned so you don’t miss anything! At Colony Ridge, we believe strong communities are built through shared experiences, and we can’t wait to celebrate this summer with you. Get ready for a season full of music, fireworks, and unforgettable memories—we’ll see you there! About Colony Ridge Colony Ridge is a residential land development company in Liberty County, Texas, offering affordable land ownership opportunities to families across the greater Houston area. It has developed one of the fastest-growing communities in Southeast Texas, the communities span multiple sections in Cleveland, TX, with a strong focus on building connections, supporting local businesses, and creating welcoming environments for residents and families throughout Liberty County.

Colony Ridge Summer Kick Off Event In Cleveland Texas Brings Community Together Cleveland, Texas — Families from across the community gathered for our highly anticipated Summer Kick Off Event in Cleveland, Texas, creating a day filled with fun, entertainment, and community connection. The family-friendly event hosted by Colony Ridge brought together local residents, vendors, and businesses for an exciting summer celebration featuring activities for all ages, unforgettable memories, and strong community spirit. Children spent the day enjoying colorful activities, bounce houses, bubbles, and endless fun with friends and family. Meanwhile, adults joined in on the excitement with raffles, giveaways, lotería games, and delicious food enjoyed by all. One of the most meaningful moments of the event was having the opportunity to recognize Sergeant Randall Walter and Deputy K9 Golyo with our special Hometown Hero Award. It was a true privilege to honor their bravery, dedication, and unwavering commitment to protecting and serving our community. Their service and sacrifice make a lasting impact, and we are incredibly thankful for all they do each and every day. Presenting this award in front of families, community members, and local supporters served as a heartfelt reminder of the importance of recognizing those who help strengthen and protect our hometown. Sergeant Randall Walter and Deputy K9 Golyo embody courage, leadership, and community spirit, and we were proud to celebrate and thank them during such a memorable event. Most importantly, we want to give a very special thank you to all of our amazing vendors. Their support, participation, and dedication helped make this event possible. Without them, this celebration would not have been the success that it was. We are truly thankful for every vendor who took the time to be part of such a meaningful community event. Events like these remind us how important it is to come together, create lasting memories, and continue building strong relationships within our growing community. Seeing so many smiling faces throughout the day made every moment worthwhile. Thank you again to everyone who attended, supported, volunteered, and participated in our Summer Kick Off Event. We cannot wait to bring even more fun community events your way soon! About Colony RidgeColony Ridge is a residential land development company in Liberty County, Texas, offering affordable land ownership opportunities to families across the greater Houston area. It has developed one of the fastest-growing communities in Southeast Texas, the communities span multiple sections in Cleveland, TX, with a strong focus on building connections, supporting local businesses, and creating welcoming environments for residents and families throughout Liberty County.

ILTexas Spring Concert Unites Families in Colony Ridge Communities Families, students, and residents came together last week for the ILTexas Spring Concert — an evening of student performances that highlighted the talent, dedication, and community spirit defining life in the Colony Ridge communities of Cleveland, Texas. Students took the stage throughout the night with instrumental and vocal performances, showcasing months of hard work and a commitment to their craft. The event drew teachers, school staff, and families who filled the room with energy and encouragement for every performer. The Spring Concert reflected what makes the ILTexas school community distinctive: a culture of support that extends beyond the classroom and into the neighborhoods where residents live. Events like this one give students the opportunity to build confidence, express themselves creatively, and share meaningful experiences with the people around them. Arts and music education continue to play an important role in developing the next generation of leaders — and evenings like the Spring Concert serve as a visible reminder of that impact. Colony Ridge extends its gratitude to the students, directors, teachers, staff, and families whose preparation and presence made the evening a success. About Colony RidgeColony Ridge is a residential land development company in Liberty County, Texas, offering  land ownership to families across the greater Houston area. Its communities in Cleveland, TX are among the fastest-growing in Southeast Texas, built around a commitment to connection, local business support, and welcoming environments for residents throughout Liberty County. About International Leadership of Texas (ILTexas)International Leadership of Texas is a public charter school network serving students across the greater Houston and North Texas regions. Its mission centers on developing ethical leaders through rigorous academics, character development, and a global perspective.

ILTexas Liberty High School Construction Progresses in Colony Ridge Construction is moving forward on the new International Leadership of Texas (ILTexas) Liberty High School campus in the Colony Ridge community, with completion scheduled for 2026. The campus, located at 1954 Road 5714, Cleveland, TX 77327, represents a major investment in education for Liberty County and reflects the continued growth of one of Texas’s fastest-developing areas. Situated beside ILTexas MSG Ramirez K-8, the new Liberty High School campus will provide a dedicated learning environment for the district’s expanding high school program. Families in Colony Ridge and surrounding communities will gain access to a tuition-free public charter campus focused on leadership development, academic rigor, and multilingual education. Construction Milestones Mark Steady ProgressRecent updates from the construction site show significant progress, including newly installed brick walls, visible wooden framing, and active crews working across the property. Equipment and building materials are in place as each phase of development brings the community closer to a high school designed for 21st-century learners. The project remains on schedule for a 2026 opening, marking an important expansion of educational access in the Cleveland, Texas area. Liberty High School Already Serving Students Although construction continues, ILTexas Liberty High School is already operating, with students attending classes at the MSG Ramirez K-8 campus under the leadership of Principal Griselle Díaz Millet. The school remains focused on academics, leadership development, and character education as it prepares to move into its new facility. ILTexas students benefit from the district’s established educational model, which emphasizes: Servant Leadership Development Trilingual Language Instruction (English, Spanish, and Chinese) Holistic Skill-Building in mind, body, and character College and Career Readiness aligned with Texas academic standards Once complete, the school will support thousands of families in Colony Ridge and surrounding Liberty County areas. Community Growth Driving Educational InvestmentThe ILTexas Liberty High School project is part of the broader growth taking place across Colony Ridge, one of Texas’s largest communities. Continued development in infrastructure, services, and education reflects a long-term commitment to supporting families and building strong community foundations. About ILTexas Liberty High SchoolILTexas Liberty High School is part of the International Leadership of Texas network of tuition-free public charter schools, offering leadership training, rigorous academics, and multilingual education. The campus is led by Principal Griselle Díaz Millet. About Colony RidgeColony Ridge is a land development company in Liberty County, Texas, providing land ownership opportunities and supporting strong community values for families in the greater Houston region. The community continues to expand with investments in infrastructure, education, and local amenities.Learn more at www.colonyridge.com. About International Leadership of TexasILTexas operates charter schools across Texas with a mission to prepare students for exceptional leadership roles through servant leadership, trilingual instruction, and character development.

Houston El Norte POA Hosts 5th Annual Community Appreciation Banquet in Colony Ridge The Houston El Norte Property Owners Association (POA) hosted its 5th Annual Community Appreciation Banquet on Saturday, November 15, 2024, at the Santa Fe Administration and Activities Building, located at 1680 County Road 3549 in Cleveland, Texas. The community appreciation event brought together invited guests, community partners, and local leaders from Liberty County to celebrate those whose service and dedication continue to support the growing Colony Ridge community in Cleveland, Texas. Recognizing Educational Excellence in Liberty County This year’s Institutional Recognition was presented to ILTexas for its continued partnership and dedication to K-8 education in the Colony Ridge area. Special acknowledgements were given to: Mrs. Sandra Gonzales, Principal of ILTexas MSG Ramirez K-8 Mrs. Joenae Horhn, Principal of ILTexas BG Ramirez K-8 Both principals were recognized for their leadership in fostering strong school-community relationships that support students and families within the Colony Ridge communities. Supporting Local Small Businesses in Cleveland The Outstanding Business Recognition was awarded to Sugar Queen Dessert Shop, owned by Mrs. Carolina Díaz. The Cleveland-area dessert shop was honored for its dedication to community involvement and for playing a valued role in local events throughout Liberty County. Building Community Through Partnership The Houston El Norte Property Owners Association annual banquet has become a cornerstone tradition, highlighting the importance of collaboration between residents, schools, and local businesses in the Colony Ridge development. These partnerships contribute to building a strong, connected, and thriving community in Cleveland, Texas and the greater Liberty County area. About Houston El Norte POA The Houston El Norte Property Owners Association serves residents of the Colony Ridge community in Cleveland, Texas. The organization focuses on community development, resident services, and fostering partnerships with local schools and businesses throughout Liberty County. For more information about Houston El Norte POA and community initiatives, visit www.houstonelnortepoa.com. To learn more about development and community engagement in Colony Ridge, visit www.colonyridge.com.