Growing healthcare industry, redevelopment of iconic landmark discussed at May GA meeting

The Houston Community College campus in Katy played host to the May Katy Area EDC General Assembly meeting on Tuesday, May 16. The meeting featured presentations from two local healthcare organizations, Memorial Hermann Katy and Kelsey-Seybold, and information about transformation of the iconic Katy Rice Dryers. 

Jerry Ashworth, Senior Vice President & Chief Executive Officer of Memorial Hermann Cypress & Memorial Hermann Katy Hospitals provided the latest information on a massive expansion of the Katy hospital which will add 115,000 square feet of additional space at a cost of $167 million. As part of the expansion, hospital bed capacity will increase by approximately 100 and a new parking garage will be constructed. Ashworth noted the growth is directly in response to the sustained population growth the Katy area continues to experience. 

Much like Ashworth, Senior Director of Ambulatory Clinics at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic Stuart A. Cayer echoed the tremendous growth his organization is experiencing in the Katy area. Within the next few years alone, Kelsey-Seybold plans to open three new campuses in the Houston region with several Katy area facilities slated for expansion. Cayer noted the organization remains committed to providing top-class, affordable healthcare. 

Finally, redevelopment of the historic Katy Rice Dryers was discussed by Hadi Andrew Nurcahya,  proprietor of the project. The mixed-use development, which will be called The Dryer, will feature a variety of food and drink options along with entertainment. A museum is also included in the plans to honor the legacy of the historic site which has stood tall over the Katy area for over 60 years. Nurcahya added the project is expected to open later this year. You can learn more about the project at thedryer.com. 

“Our May General Assembly meeting exemplified why the Katy area is such a desirable place to live and work,” said Katy Area President/CEO Angie Thomason. “Not only do we have outstanding options for recreation and entertainment, but we also have world class healthcare facilities right here in our own backyard.” 

To learn more about Katy Area EDC, including how to become a member, visit katyedc.org.