We Are Downtown • Parks & Public Spaces • Profiles
Behind the Scenes with Downtown Houston's Block by Block Program
The vitality of Downtown Houston depends on more than its iconic skyline and the millions who visit throughout the year to work, live, dine and play. It requires the constant care and attention of the Block by Block program, whose team ensures our city center remains clean, safe and welcoming for everyone.
At the helm is Leola Maxey, a General Manager with deep Houston roots and a wealth of experience from other downtown areas, bringing both personal passion and professional expertise to the job.
A Homegrown Leader with a National Perspective
Growing up in Houston's Fourth Ward, Leola Maxey's journey has come full circle. "This is my Downtown. This is home for me," she shares, her pride evident in every word.
Maxey's path to leadership began in 2015 as a Safety Ambassador with Block by Block in Austin. Her devotion to the community quickly showed and she rose to Operations Manager, leading a team of more than 60 Ambassadors.
Her success in Austin led to a role as Project Manager, where she crisscrossed the country establishing new Ambassador programs in cities nationwide.
Now back in Houston, her mission is clear: "Whatever I can do to help elevate and continue the safeness, cleanliness and hospitality of Downtown, that's my ultimate goal."
A Multi-Faceted Approach to a Thriving Downtown
Block by Block's Ambassadors work tirelessly to ensure Downtown Houston remains welcoming and lively.
From maintaining our parks and public spaces to providing a watchful presence on the streets, these teams handle the daily operations that keep Downtown running smoothly.
"It's a multi-faceted program," she explains, "all for one common cause—making our Downtown a place everyone wants to visit and return to."
The Ambassadors' key responsibilities include:
- Cleaning & Maintenance: Our Cleaning Ambassadors keep public spaces, parks, streets and METRORail platforms free of debris and graffiti to create a welcoming atmosphere.
- Safety Guidance: Downtown Public Safety Guides offer a friendly, vigilant presence throughout the District, helping visitors feel comfortable and safe.
- Community Support: Through our Quality of Life Response Team, we connect individuals experiencing homelessness with vital resources and support services through a network of collaborating agencies.
The Importance of Public Perception
For the Block by Block team, perception is everything.
"If someone comes Downtown and sees trash and graffiti, they might not feel safe," she says. By maintaining a visible standard of excellence—even down to ensuring uniforms are neat—the Ambassadors play a critical role in shaping how Downtown is experienced by locals and visitors alike.
"How others see us interacting with the public speaks volumes," she adds. "It tells the tale of who we are and what we do every day."
Partnering with the Community
Block by Block thrives on collaboration with the community it serves.
Whether you're a visitor, resident or business owner, you're encouraged to reach out if you notice something that needs attention. For graffiti, trash or safety concerns, the team is just a phone call away at 713-223-2003, or reachable by email at Operations@DowntownHouston.org.
With a passionate leader at the helm and a dedicated team on the streets, Downtown Houston's Block by Block program is committed to creating a cleaner, safer and more welcoming environment for all.
For more information on the Block by Block program and how you can get involved, check out our additional resources.