HOUSTON - In response to the questions from the news media about the esplanade in the Broadacres neighborhood, the city has confirmed that the esplanade and street are in the public right-of-way.

The public right-of-way (ROW) is the area owned by the City, which includes: streets, sidewalks, drainage ditches, and esplanades. Houston Public Works Transportation and Drainage Operations manage the ROW.

The public ROW is available for anyone in the community to use for legal activities, including personal photography. Signs and blocking the public ROW are not allowed without specific permission from the City of Houston.

Individuals or organizations who wish to use the public ROW may apply for a permit through the Mayor’s Office of Special Events. Permits are required for any event or function which may restrict access to any section of a public street or area.

The Houston Film Commission is available as a service to filmmakers and photographers in Houston.

For ROW boundaries, visit: www.gims.houstontx.gov

To report blocked sidewalks or improperly posted signs in the ROW, the community can call 311.