SUGAR LAND, Texas – A former CVS parking lot in an unincorporated area of Fort Bend County near Sugar Land has become an illegal dumping ground and homeless encampment, raising safety and health concerns among nearby residents.
“I have three children,” said Furah Kashemwa, who lives adjacent to the abandoned property on Old Richmond Road. “My daughter has told me she’s scared of going out because she doesn’t know who she might encounter. She’s really scared about it. She doesn’t like to go for a walk anymore.”
The site has accumulated various discarded items—including mattresses, cardboard, toilet bowls, and car bumpers—creating both an eyesore and potential health hazards for the neighborhood.
Ronny Gauthier, a resident with an engineering background, expressed concern about the environmental impact. “Anywhere you have debris and you’re creating pests and whatnot, it’s always going to be a concern, especially for the community,” Gauthier said.
Fort Bend County officials have outlined a process for residents to address the situation. Residents can report illegal dumping by emailing EH-General@FortBendCountyTX.gov. The county encourages detailed complaints, including photos or videos if available, and recommends providing contact information for follow-up. Officials say the cleanup process could take up to 30 days once reported.
This location marks the second abandoned CVS property in the Houston area to face similar issues, following recent reports of comparable problems at a former CVS in Cypress.