The EaDo Management District is thrilled to announce that Jessica Bacorn will serve as its new Executive Director. The experience and enthusiasm Jessica brings with her will be a boon to the EaDo community, and we’re excited for community stakeholders to get to know her, starting with this interview.
How does your previous work experience with Houston First inform your approach to running the EaDo District?
As a licensed Landscape Architect I have been involved in many urban design and master planning projects globally. Through these projects I became more interested in project management and making sure the projects were executed and delivered as seamlessly as possible. This experience led me to Houston First, where we strived to create and deliver projects that promoted tourism and enhanced the quality of life for Houstonians. I think great destinations and developments are made more successful by connectivity, a sense of safety and a sense of place.
What do you most look forward to in your position with the EaDo District? Are there any particular goals you hope to accomplish?
EaDo is going through such an exciting time right now. New development in the area has created a great buzz and is drawing residents, visitors from Downtown, around the city and surrounding areas. I would like to see the streets of EaDo be more walkable, inviting and pedestrian friendly.
How does the work of the District complement the work of other entities in the community, such as the City of Houston, TxDOT, the Greater Houston Partnership, etc.?
EaDo is actively involved with TxDOT and The Downtown Redevelopment Authority in the NHHIP project which will transform I-69, creating additional park space and a better connection between EaDo and Downtown.
In partnership with the University of Houston, Houston City Council, EaDo District, the mayor’s office, county commissioner’s office, city council members Robert Gallegos and Dwight Boykins, and TxDOT, the District supports The Cullen Underpass Project which includes colorful artwork on the concrete columns.
EaDo also partners with nonprofits, such as Scenic Houston, on projects that transform areas of the District. One such project is the East Downtown Gateway Experience Project (EDGE) which will create an enhanced gateway into EaDo at Pease Street.
Which upcoming project are you most excited about?
I am most excited about the NHHIP project – not so much the freeway construction, but the potential cap park being proposed. I am excited to see how the design evolves, and I can’t wait to visit the completed park!
What do you want people to know about the East Downtown Management District?
The Management District is committed to enhancing the District through urban development. Our vision for EaDo is of a thoughtfully planned, high quality community, which includes commercial development supported by a successful residential neighborhood. As a management district we keep safety and security at the forefront and want to support development and district enhancements that keep EaDo moving in a positive direction.
And now, for the lightning round…
Favorite local restaurant (in the District):
Favorite Houston sports team:
Astros
Are you involved in any volunteer work?
I am chair of the PTO Beautification Committee and the School Supply Committee. I volunteer as needed at the local youth baseball park. I participate on an advisory committee for the Houston Freedmen’s Town Conservancy.
Do you have any pets?
We have one dog and two cats. We used to have four turtles and eight chickens. In late April we rescued two baby Blue Jays and fostered them for a night, until we could get them to the rescue center for care.
What are your hobbies?
My hobbies include cooking and gardening. I love to entertain friends, and I really enjoy watching baseball, especially the LSU Tigers and the Astros.
What’s your favorite quote?
“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky
Where did you spend your last vacation?
The Outer Banks, North Carolina. I helped my son reel in a tuna that was almost as tall as him!
What’s something you’re passionate about?
God and family
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?
I am terrified of roaches and green grasshoppers.