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nology, Emergency Medical Services, and Law Enforcement. HCC Northeast is a comprehensive college that offers
AAS degrees, workforce training, certificates, GED, ESL, continuing education and academic transfer courses. For
information, call (713) 718-8300 or visit hccs.edu/northeastcollege.

AMENITIES

The North Channel area claims a number of real amenities – excellent mobility, varied shopping experiences, quality
health care, affordable housing and strong school systems.

Efficient Transportation

Due to its location along I-10, the area is well served when it comes to mobility. Loop 610 and Beltway 8 provide
loops around the greater Houston area, providing access to all parts of the region. The Metropolitan Transit Authori-
ty operates the city bus system – an outstanding public transit system with a fleet of 1,400 buses. It operates five high
occupancy vehicle lanes along freeways, the largest barrier-separated system in the world, and has built new roads to
ease traffic congestion. Metro also offers light rail in the downtown Houston area. Two major airports, George Bush
Intercontinental and William P. Hobby, serve the area. Hobby is minutes from the North Channel area.

Shopping Experiences
For those wishing to avoid the shopping mall crowds, the area offers hundreds of local merchants offering items at
competitive prices. From locally owned and operated stores to national retail chains, the area offers something for
every shopper and budget. Convenience is the key to Houston shopping, and a number of regional malls are located
within the greater Houston area. However, most needs can be met by shopping with local merchants in the commu-
nity.

Affordable Housing

The area offers stable, affordable housing choices for new or existing homeowners. Homes in the area range from
$55,000 to more than $500,000 depending on age, style and size. New housing additions are available throughout the
area. Subdivisions are conveniently located, many within walking distance of quality schools. Numerous apartment
homes are available in a variety of price ranges.

PORT HOUSTON

Port Houston is one of the largest ports in the world in terms of both
foreign waterborne tonnage and total tonnage. Each year, there are about
8,000 vessel calls and 200,000 barge transits through the port, and 100
steamship lines offer service, linking Houston with 1,000 ports around the
world. A vital element in the infrastructure of Houston and the region, the
port maintains a high level of commercial prominence that solidifies its
status as a major gateway to global commerce.
Port Houston offers a free 90-minute round-trip tour of the Hous-
ton Ship Channel to thousands of visitors aboard the M/V Sam Houston
public tour boat. Reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance for
the free tours online at www.portofhouston.com or call (713) 670-2416,
Tuesday through Saturday between 8 am and 5 pm.

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