Good Samaritan transforms dangerous Fifth Ward lot after KPRC 2 investigation

HOUSTON – A decade-long neighborhood eyesore that residents called a “dangerous jungle” has finally been transformed, thanks to one man’s determination to serve his community and a KPRC 2 investigation that sparked action in Houston’s Fifth Ward.

The vastly overgrown lot in the 4700 block of Salina Street had become more than just an unsightly nuisance – it represented a serious safety threat to the community, especially children walking to nearby Fleming Middle School.

“You can see how weeds and grass become tall weeds, those weeds become bushes and bushes become trees. This is a jungle out here. That’s ten years worth of growth,” said Paul Holly, a resident who has lived with the eyesore just doors away from his well-maintained home.

Safety concerns mount

The neglected property had created multiple hazards for the neighborhood:

• Dense vegetation provided potential hiding spots for criminals

• A completely obscured drainage ditch created flooding risks

• Overgrowth had consumed the public sidewalk, forcing pedestrians into the street

Despite numerous complaints to Houston’s 311 help line and appeals to local officials, the lot remained untamed – until now.

A hero steps forward

Just one day after KPRC 2’s initial report, Clinton Jones, a local landscaping company owner, took matters into his own hands. Without any official support or requests from the City of Houston and without any compensation, Jones began the arduous task of reclaiming the lot from nature.

“My wife and I, Lady Bernicia Jones, we’ve been ones who like to serve. We come from families that serve,” Jones explained as he worked through Houston’s notorious heat and humidity to transform the space.

Community impact

The transformation left longtime residents like Paul Holly overwhelmed with gratitude. “This would have never happened without you and Channel 2 showing them, hey, let’s take care of our community,” Holly said.

Next steps

Now, all that Clinton has cut down simply needs to be trucked away to complete this cleanup. But already the entire look of the neighborhood has improved immensely. The City of Houston’s Public Works Department has committed to removing the cleared debris, according to Councilmember Tarsha Jackson’s chief of staff. KPRC 2 will continue monitoring the situation until the cleanup is complete.

Jones, despite his remarkable contribution, remained humble about his service to the community. “All credit goes to Him,” Jones said. “I’m thankful that God gives us a heart to serve. That’s what we’re supposed to do for our fellow citizens.”