HOUSTON | Development Thread II

[AviationGuy]

Nice to see a new red line extension open up. That being said, it drives me crazy that the corridors that need new service the most aren't likely to get it any time in the near to long-term future, that being Greenway/Uptown/Galleria. I understand that this isn't METRO's fault, but rather than the city and the rich uppity residents who live in a lot of these areas. METRO's problem is having to deal with a large percentage of Houstonians who simply refuse to acknowledge rail, heck even buses, need to exist in the first place. A line is desperately needed along Westheimer, but perhaps Alabama might work instead? And obviously a connection along Post Oak as well. Glad that U of H is going to be served shortly by the southern extension that will be opening relatively shortly as well, of course.

All in all, I'm glad Houston's finally making at least a LITTLE headway when it comes to rail, but unfortunately being street-level makes it incredibly slow as well. There are substantial areas that should have been elevated, no doubt about it.

Aaron (Glowrock)

I haven't figured out why there aren't lines to both airports. As an example, last time I flew into St. Louis for a meeting, we took rail from the airport to downtown. There was no need for a car. The rail was great.

[Urbannizer]

All updates by Triton on HAIF

Skyhouse

http://i.imgur.com/QukfOYo.jpg?1

http://i.imgur.com/o9j2482.jpg?1

http://i.imgur.com/gebzkAC.jpg?1

Main & Leeland

http://i.imgur.com/1QsZ6Lp.jpg?1

Flagship Holiday Inn (former Savoy Hotel): More windows

http://i.imgur.com/JVJKBAp.jpg?1

Mickey Leland Federal Building

http://i.imgur.com/froOFcZ.jpg?1

500 Crawford: Proof that construction has begun.

http://i.imgur.com/fvnrTxv.jpg?1

Buffalo Bayou Redevelopment

http://i.imgur.com/RhrsWTw.jpg?1

Pearl Midtown

http://i.imgur.com/LNMyuwO.jpg?1

Parc Binz One

http://i.imgur.com/H42F12B.jpg?1

Tower at Hermann Place: Site for 42-Story High-Rise, construction begins next month.

http://i.imgur.com/NdlIx2R.jpg?1

[Double L]

The plan for the light rail is for it to eventually connect to both airports. Glowrock, I think it would be very difficult to put rail down Westheimer or Alabama because structurally there are only so many lanes available. They are putting rail down Richmond but your point still stands, because Republican congressman John Culberson is refusing to get funds for the line down Richmond, (officially the "University line").

I'm fully aware of Culberson's stupidity, Double L. And I know full well that it can't work down Westheimer, at least not without being an elevated line (and frankly I think that's what it SHOULD be!). Alabama isn't as bad in terms of traffic, so I'd think maybe an alignment along it would work out, at least until Alabama ends around Wesleyan, I believe? Then you can run it to Richmond, then hook a turn up Post Oak back to Westheimer where it's plenty wide enough to handle a train.

My point is, those who complain about the current LRT system and say it doesn't go to where it's really needed truly need to convince some of the idiots like Culberson to pull their heads out of their asses and acknowledge that this city, heck this entire REGION, needs a good transit system!

Not having at least an express bus network from Sugar Land to downtown and from The Woodlands to downtown is simply ridiculous. I am sure it's because those places don't want "undesireables" to show up from the "inner city", but give me a freaking break!

Aaron (Glowrock)

[glowrock]

I haven't figured out why there aren't lines to both airports. As an example, last time I flew into St. Louis for a meeting, we took rail from the airport to downtown. There was no need for a car. The rail was great.

Agreed. No reason why the extension to U of H can't be continued to Hobby. And no reason why the north extension that now goes to a bit north of Crosstimbers can't be routed pretty much right up the Hardy Toll Road to IAH. Transportation to and from the airports should be very, very high on the priority list!

Aaron (Glowrock)

[Reverberation]

Agreed. No reason why the extension to U of H can't be continued to Hobby. And no reason why the north extension that now goes to a bit north of Crosstimbers can't be routed pretty much right up the Hardy Toll Road to IAH. Transportation to and from the airports should be very, very high on the priority list!

Aaron (Glowrock)

I share your sentiments. I spoke to someone a while back who indicated that besides the money problem, there had been considerable push-back from the Taxi union, who would stand to lose a great deal of captive customers if travelers had other options.

[Reverberation]

The plan for the light rail is for it to eventually connect to both airports. Glowrock, I think it would be very difficult to put rail down Westheimer or Alabama because structurally there are only so many lanes available. They are putting rail down Richmond but your point still stands, because Republican congressman John Culberson is refusing to get funds for the line down Richmond, (officially the "University line").

I'm fully aware of Culberson's stupidity, Double L. And I know full well that it can't work down Westheimer, at least not without being an elevated line (and frankly I think that's what it SHOULD be!). Alabama isn't as bad in terms of traffic, so I'd think maybe an alignment along it would work out, at least until Alabama ends around Wesleyan, I believe? Then you can run it to Richmond, then hook a turn up Post Oak back to Westheimer where it's plenty wide enough to handle a train.

My point is, those who complain about the current LRT system and say it doesn't go to where it's really needed truly need to convince some of the idiots like Culberson to pull their heads out of their asses and acknowledge that this city, heck this entire REGION, needs a good transit system!

Not having at least an express bus network from Sugar Land to downtown and from The Woodlands to downtown is simply ridiculous. I am sure it's because those places don't want "undesireables" to show up from the "inner city", but give me a freaking break!

Aaron (Glowrock)

Personally I agree with Culberson that light rail is wrong for Richmond and Uptown. At this point losing a lane from Richmond Avenue is going to be much worse than any train that serves such a limited area. The goals of transit improvements are to offer more options to get to your destination and to allow more people to access those places more easily. Plus by the time they finish tearing up the street and putting in the train it will be 10-15 years from now and Houston will have a million or two more people and the whole area will now have worse traffic plus a train screwing up the ingress/egress from its busiest thoroughfare.

They need a subway or an elevated train with commuter service to the suburbs (at least Beltway 8). I really want transit in the area but the idea of putting in grade level rail along Richmond and Post Oak is just foolish. Light rail is great for getting around dense neighborhoods or traveling short distances but now we need transit that serves dense neighborhoods with high numbers of commuters who aren't going to be swayed to wake up an hour early to take a slow 3 car tram to work. West Houston is a completely different animal.

[Urbannizer]

Scaffolding collapsed at Chateau Ten

http://swamplot.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/chateau-10-scaffold-collapse.jpg

A READER WHO happened to be on the scene Saturday morning when scaffolding collapsed on the side of the Chateau Ten condo building going up at the corner of Spann and Welch streets just south of River Oaks sent Swamplot these photos and a report shortly after the incident. The Randall Davis development is under construction behind the empty lot on San Felipe on which Hines is planning to build a 17-story office tower:

“I did not see the collapse, but I heard it . . . It sounded like an explosion — power went out immediately.” The correspondent reports running out to find scaffolding for the 6-story building down, “completely covering a house (and Mercedes) and scaffolding bits were dangling from power lines. I called 911. I don’t think anyone is hurt.”

Full Article: http://swamplot.com/scenes-from-the-scaffolding-collapse-at-randall-daviss-chateau-ten-condos-san-felipe-edition/2013-12-23/

http://swamplot.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/chateau-10-scaffold-mercedes.jpg

[glowrock]

I share your sentiments. I spoke to someone a while back who indicated that besides the money problem, there had been considerable push-back from the Taxi union, who would stand to lose a great deal of captive customers if travelers had other options.

I know you and I probably disagree on many things, Reverberation, but one thing I'm sure we have in common is the notion that taxi companies have no freaking business lobbying METRO, Houston, Harris County, whatever, to derail public transportation between downtown and the two airports. Screw those idiots. (The companies, not necessarily the drivers). Not sure where you get the "Taxi Union" sentiment from, for taxi drivers are not unionized (that I know of), but no doubt, the taxi companies themselves pretty much control the city like an iron fist. Similar to the towing companies, I'd think. :(

Aaron (Glowrock)

[toxteth o'grady]

http://blogs.ridemetro.org/images/write_on/santatrain1.jpg

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...:cheers:

[toxteth o'grady]

Nice to see a new red line extension open up. That being said, it drives me crazy that the corridors that need new service the most aren't likely to get it any time in the near to long-term future, that being Greenway/Uptown/Galleria. I understand that this isn't METRO's fault, but rather than the city and the rich uppity residents who live in a lot of these areas.

Aaron (Glowrock)

The same thing happened in DC, where the residents of Georgetown refused to have Metro extended into their neighborhood.

On the other hand, there's an opportunity for redevelopment to find its way into some of the neighborhoods on the southeast and north sides, rather than pass by in favor of wealthier communities, as has happened with a lot of the nouveau light-rail systems. Service to the areas where the traveling public lives is always good.:tup:

[toxteth o'grady]

I haven't figured out why there aren't lines to both airports. As an example, last time I flew into St. Louis for a meeting, we took rail from the airport to downtown. There was no need for a car. The rail was great.

I have taken Chicago's El and trains in Boston and Cleveland to get from city center to downtown. Philadelphia and Baltimore appear to have connections, but they're not as convenient. Los Angeles has brought the subway only within five miles of the international airport, which is a pity. DFW gets its link within the next year. That should be great for the citizens of Dallas.

[Urbannizer]

Energy Center Three: By brijonmang on HAIF

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/24/qapetuha.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/24/y4y3u6yp.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/24/qynadege.jpg

[N90]

I agree it's nice to see someone from somewhere actually excited about what's going on in Houston, AviationGuy. I just wish N90 would tone it down just a little bit, that's all. Being a huge booster isn't much better than being a huge detractor in the overall scheme of things. Both extremes tend to turn people off.

Aaron (Glowrock)
I love Houston glowrock. Is that really a crime?

I'm a member on many forums; wirednewyork, HAIF, Chicago Architecture, LA Curbed, Greater greater Washington, Dallas Metropolis, Atlanta Curb, etc. So I've spread my appreciation all around, I just prefer Houston on SSP.

In 1970, Houston metro was smaller than Cleveland. Today it's 5th. I wasn't alive to see the US in the 70's but lately it's reminded me of the nation I'm from, growing up and seeing a place mature too is magical.

I only hope you get to experience it one day for yourself.

OTOH, holy! I have been gone a week and more new towers and apartments! INFILL-NATION!

[Urbannizer]

A RFP has been sent out for the downtown retail district: http://www.downtowndistrict.org/Home/Procurement/Overview/RetailRFP-120213/Retail%20RFP-120213.PDF

[glowrock]

A RFP has been sent out for the downtown retail district: http://www.downtowndistrict.org/Home/Procurement/Overview/RetailRFP-120213/Retail%20RFP-120213.PDF

I wish them good luck in their endeavor, that's for sure! The loss of Macy's (Foley's) was huge, even though the building itself was beyond horrifically ugly. Downtown is sorely lacking for good retail. Thankfully there are some good food shopping opportunities already, most notably Phoenicia Market. :yes:

Aaron (Glowrock)

[shakman]

I wish them good luck in their endeavor, that's for sure! The loss of Macy's (Foley's) was huge, even though the building itself was beyond horrifically ugly. Downtown is sorely lacking for good retail. Thankfully there are some good food shopping opportunities already, most notably Phoenicia Market. :yes:

Aaron (Glowrock)

I like how Houston is acting upon this in an aggressive manner.

This is the beginning of an amazing rennaissance for Downtown Houston from all different economic and socialogical directions. Get ready for the BIG waves.

[toxteth o'grady]

A RFP has been sent out for the downtown retail district: http://www.downtowndistrict.org/Home/Procurement/Overview/RetailRFP-120213/Retail%20RFP-120213.PDF

They're just hiring a rainmaker. What's needed is a developer.

Montrose has all these funky little locally-owned retailers. It would be nice if there was a building in this new district the mom-and-pops could call their own.

[glowrock]

They're just hiring a rainmaker. What's needed is a developer.

Montrose has all these funky little locally-owned retailers. It would be nice if there was a building in this new district the mom-and-pops could call their own.

I hate to say it, but what might really be needed is actually dealing with the inexcusable homeless problems downtown. I knew full well what I was getting into when I moved downtown, but wow, it really can be terrible sometimes. Hard to be comfortable wandering around downtown when it seems all you see are masses of homeless, normally of thedrunken and/or psychotic variety. :(

Aaron (Glowrock)

[photoLith]

I've never been pan handled more than when I lived in downtown Houston.

[rdavis4559]

I've never been pan handled more than when I lived in downtown Houston.

You know what I found works for me? Tell them you don't have a single dollar on you and that you are $40,000 in debt. For me it is a lie but the response is usually either friendly or nonexistent in that they just walk away.

[AviationGuy]

I've never been pan handled more than when I lived in downtown Houston.

Sounds like the average intersection in Austin. Downtown Austin is probably similar to downtown Houston in that respect. Maybe sunbelt cities tend to be that way. Makes sense, anyway.

Haven't been downtown in Houston in years, so I haven't experienced it.

[AviationGuy]

By the way, Merry Christmas (or Happy Holidays) to my Houston friends. I'm in H-Town tonight through tomorrow. Holed up in a hotel at Greenway Plaza this evening, having had a nice Chinese dinner out (with family). Traffic seemed light coming in from Austin for a change. I took the new tollway from 290 down to I-10. Very nice. Very little development, but I know that will change soon.

[toxteth o'grady]

Personally I agree with Culberson that light rail is wrong for Richmond and Uptown. At this point losing a lane from Richmond Avenue is going to be much worse than any train that serves such a limited area.

I think Culberson objects to any form of public transit, which makes him much like Tom DeLay (who resisted letting Federal dollars go to Metro, while DART was being financed). Houston's congressional delegation has done a really poor job of looking out for the City over the decades; you have to go back to the '60s and Albert Thomas bringing NASA to Clear Lake to find any example of Houston-area Congress-critters going to bat for Houston. Some of it was probably suburban versus urban infighting, but all of it was unhelpful.

[toxteth o'grady]

I've never been pan handled more than when I lived in downtown Houston.

I have - in DC and Fort Worth. We've had these clusters of homeless/jobless at major intersections since Reagan, although now I think this is just a fundraising arm of the Unification Church. The only way for this problem to end is for these people to be given jobs and counseling. I'll betcha if you cleaned and sobered up a few of them, the construction industry might have some ready-made laborers for the local jobsites.

[toxteth o'grady]

You know what I found works for me? Tell them you don't have a single dollar on you and that you are $40,000 in debt. For me it is a lie but the response is usually either friendly or nonexistent in that they just walk away.

Our gambit is to go to the local McDonalds and buy them a cheeseburger. It feeds them, but that's probably not what they're looking for so they have no possible reaction.

That said, there are some professional panhandlers (or maybe it's just people experimenting with the generosity of motorists) who've made $30,000 in a year. Which is not much, but it will put them into a modest apartment. And it's tax free.

[rdavis4559]

Our gambit is to go to the local McDonalds and buy them a cheeseburger. It feeds them, but that's probably not what they're looking for so they have no possible reaction.

That said, there are some professional panhandlers (or maybe it's just people experimenting with the generosity of motorists) who've made $30,000 in a year. Which is not much, but it will put them into a modest apartment. And it's tax free.

Yeah, whether suburb or urban, once you spend enough time in one area you begin to notice the trend of which 'homeless' people are constantly hanging around and always have a different story. You tell me one day you need 35 cents for the bus and I see you in the same spot every day for the next three weeks then I am going to realize you are a liar. At that point I really don't care if you are homeless or if this is all part of your game.

The opposite of this is a homeless guy that lives in and around hermann park/golf course. He has not once asked me for money in the past two years and I see him at least twice a week if not more. I actually even see him working for food and drinks at the gas station on north macgregor at almeda by sweeping the parking lot and washing it with a hose.

[toxteth o'grady]

I hope they're paying him minimum wage and not relying on him to volunteer.

[toxteth o'grady]

Linbeck gets a contract for the new performing arts center in Sugar Land.

Sugar Land moves forward with Performing Arts Center (http://impactnews.com/houston-metro/sugar-land--missouri-city/sugar-land-moves-forward-with-performing-arts-center/)

http://impactnews.com/downloads/21058/download/bitblt-620x370-043524f5315b8d95ee8d915b14b7b1873e184c34/Perf.Arts%20render.jpg

[Shasta]

The panhandlers in downtown Houston are on the JV team when compared to the aggressive trustafarian addicts in San Francisco that will follow you for blocks.

Also, the downtown guys I find far friendlier and easier to engage than the Uptown beggars who hop out in front of your car and pay no attention to the light cycles.

[Urbannizer]

Central Bank Building Redo: New renderings

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3672/11573690313_ae9eb8bf5b_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7389/11573480205_ab3171ac4e_b.jpg

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http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3762/11573489085_9cf2ec6a68_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5518/11574275236_d448d5d1d2_b.jpg

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http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3762/11574268866_36a90584a4_b.jpg

[mfastx]

Personally I agree with Culberson that light rail is wrong for Richmond and Uptown. At this point losing a lane from Richmond Avenue is going to be much worse than any train that serves such a limited area. The goals of transit improvements are to offer more options to get to your destination and to allow more people to access those places more easily. Plus by the time they finish tearing up the street and putting in the train it will be 10-15 years from now and Houston will have a million or two more people and the whole area will now have worse traffic plus a train screwing up the ingress/egress from its busiest thoroughfare.


If METRO builds the University line as currently planned, there will be no lanes lost at Richmond. Traffic will be the same with or without the rail. The University line would allow many more people access to faster, more reliable transit along many large employment centers.


They need a subway or an elevated train with commuter service to the suburbs (at least Beltway 8). I really want transit in the area but the idea of putting in grade level rail along Richmond and Post Oak is just foolish. Light rail is great for getting around dense neighborhoods or traveling short distances but now we need transit that serves dense neighborhoods with high numbers of commuters who aren't going to be swayed to wake up an hour early to take a slow 3 car tram to work. West Houston is a completely different animal.

HOWEVER, the above being said, I do agree that I would prefer grade-separated rail for Houston. The University Line would be great for the corridor, but the original heavy rail plan from the 1980s would be the best fit for Houston even today. It had multiple lines going west to around Beltway 8 and it was centered around the west side of Houston, where much of the population is. It would have allowed folks to get from the west Beltway 8 area to downtown and points east much faster than light rail ever will, and at competitive times vs. cars.

[TexasPlaya]

Is the Central Bank Revitalization all residential or hotels too?

[Urbannizer]

Is the Central Bank Revitalization all residential or hotels too?

It's actually office space, with over 25,000 sq. feet of retail.

[AviationGuy]

Linbeck gets a contract for the new performing arts center in Sugar Land.

Sugar Land moves forward with Performing Arts Center (http://impactnews.com/houston-metro/sugar-land--missouri-city/sugar-land-moves-forward-with-performing-arts-center/)

http://impactnews.com/downloads/21058/download/bitblt-620x370-043524f5315b8d95ee8d915b14b7b1873e184c34/Perf.Arts%20render.jpg

Looks very sharp!

[Urbannizer]

Word over on HAIF is that Alliance Residential (the developer behind Main & Leeland), will build another residential project on the lot south of Skyhouse. It will be taller than Main & Leeland, but not by a lot.

[Wattleigh]

http://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/houston/article/City-plans-hugely-important-new-justice-complex-5094942.php


City plans 'hugely important' new justice complex

By Mike Morris

December 27, 2013

Houston leaders are in the early stages of planning a new police headquarters and courthouse complex that Mayor Annise Parker said could be the most important project on which she will work during her six-year tenure.

There is little question the city's criminal justice facilities are fading. Houston's central jail at 61 Riesner, the largest of five buildings that make up the justice complex northwest of downtown, is 62 years old.

The 18-acre plot is home to 1,000 Houston Police Department staff, a courthouse with 10 courtrooms, the jail and other operations.

A city study concluded the buildings need $55 million in repairs; Parker noted there is a sinkhole under the courthouse caused by a burst sewer pipe. Officials say police headquarters at 1200 Travis also needs work, is too small and is more office building than police command center. That building would be sold and consolidated into the new justice complex.

[toxteth o'grady]

The panhandlers in downtown Houston are on the JV team when compared to the aggressive trustafarian addicts in San Francisco that will follow you for blocks.

When I was in Boston, the Lyndon LaRouchebags would glom onto you and not let go until you bought something from them. You could get an earful of Kissinger/Rockefeller conspiracy stories from the main campus to the student center, whether you wanted it or not. Later, I found the Moonies and the Scientologists each had their own streetcorner scams for the unwary. :runaway:

[toxteth o'grady]

"Houston leaders are in the early stages of planning a new police headquarters and courthouse complex that Mayor Annise Parker said could be the most important project on which she will work during her six-year tenure."

Just what the city needs - a supertall Supermax.

[toxteth o'grady]

The Building Permits section of the HBJ lists at least four contracts for office towers on the west side of town. Bellows has been contracted to start work on the Phillips 66 headquarters, Memorial Lakes 1 is going up (Skanska), Westchase Park II is under contract (Harvey) and Tellepsen is starting work on Woodbranch Office Park. I assume renders for these buildings have already been posted earlier?

[Urbannizer]

*bump*

[Urbannizer]

Skyhouse: by DrLan34

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7430/11586838364_0cee48f8d5_b.jpg

The Sovereign: by infinite_jim

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5546/11586709723_4c5b0710c2_b.jpg

Momentum Audi

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7293/11586834824_34575568f0_b.jpg

BLVD Place & Hanover Post Oak

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7318/11586718783_1e09c234aa_b.jpg

[DanielG425]

That Audi dealership is so nice! It'd be cool if one was built downtown;)

[Urbannizer]

2929 Weslayan: 12/26 by BaderJF

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7379/11593671693_a0a1a4f855_c.jpg

[Urbannizer]

The new Country Playhouse

https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/575149_10151509003806570_353826424_n.jpg

I know that over the last few months (probably longer) there have been many rumors and speculation swirling around about what the future of our organization would be. Well, the wheels have been moving on what has turned out to be an extremely busy 2013. It can now officially be announced that Country Playhouse has entered into an agreement with Moody RambinInterests where they will acquire a portion of our current property. A new 10 story office complex called Town Center 1 is going to be built at the corner of Town and Country Boulevard and Queensbury Lane. Where our building currently sits will become a garage that will have parking for approximately 1500 cars. This means that our current building will be demolished sometime between the middle to end of August in order to facilitate this redevelopment.

As part of the agreement in this new development, Moody Rambin will be constructing a brand new 22,000 square foot top of the line theater for us. The new main stage will seat approximately 225-250 in a multi level seating arrangement. We will also have a black box performance space with seating for around 80. In addition to these two new performance spaces, we will have a full rehearsal hall, a conference room for design and production meetings, office space and full ADA compliance. The new location will be part of a new complex between where the current building is and Creme-de-la-Creme.The timeline for a project of this magnitude is somewhat of a work in progress, but tentatively we should be taking possession of our new facility sometime in the fall of 2014.

[Urbannizer]

Brazos Towers at Bayou Manor: 12/29 by larrydierker

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7444/11626045786_566d0fdf0c_c.jpg

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[Urbannizer]

Local Art Scene Builds on Creativity

http://www.houstonchronicle.com/entertainment/arts-theater/article/Local-Art-scene-builds-on-creativity-5096673.php?cmpid=btfpm#/1

MATCH

http://www.lakeflato.com/projects/midtown-arts-theatre-center-houston/match-02.jpg

Consultant Jill Jewett is optimistic about breaking ground on the long-planned Midtown Arts and Theater Center Houston within the first quarter of 2014. Her group has raised $17 million of the project's $25 million goal, and construction can begin once the $20 million mark is hit, she said.

The 59,000-square-foot complex at 3400 Main will be a self-sustaining hub of creative activity for Houston's small- and medium-size cultural organizations. Designed by Lake|Flato and Studio Red Architects, it will have theater and gallery spaces, rehearsal studios and classrooms, offices, and a coffee and wine bar.

Jewett is so confident about moving forward, she plans to begin the search for an executive director in January. "Every time there's an article in the paper, we're inundated with arts organizations wanting to know when they can sign leases," she said.

MFAH Expansion

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5539/11147659773_199394281c_z.jpg

Construction barricades that have created a traffic bottleneck on Montrose Boulevard in the Museum District are the earliest signs of progress coming to the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.

While the capital campaign for the museum's forthcoming expansion project - including a new building devoted to contemporary art - is still in the quiet phase, infrastructure work has begun on water mains and power lines in the area.

Some of the underground construction is "just necessary repairs" that will improve electricity in existing buildings, director Gary Tinterow said.

As for the new building coming from Steven Holl Architects, he said, "Everything is still Silly Putty at this point; still mutable as we test assumptions and look at the budget and materials."

Tinterow hopes to unveil plans for the new building by the end of 2014, "maybe early fall."

Menil Expansion

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2821/11636968114_2f9419eb22_z.jpg

"This will be a very important year," Menil Collection director Josef Helfenstein said. "Some big projects we've been working on for a long time now will begin to unfold. There will be visible progress on the cafe and parking lot."

First up are changes designed to make the quiet museum complex a little bit less of a hidden gem.

Things are moving forward with Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates' "greening up" of the grounds to create a new gateway to the Menil campus from its Alabama Street parking lot. Visitors also will encounter a new cafe designed by Stern and Bucek Architects that will be owned and operated by Greg Martin, formerly of Taco Milagro and Cafe Express.

The museum held a naming contest for the new cafe this fall. About 400 entries were submitted, and the winner will be announced Jan. 8th

More long-term, Helfenstein and the Menil's board hope to release plans for the new Menil Drawing Institute later in the year. They hired a director for the institute, the Italian Allegra Pesenti, in September. Designed by Johnston Marklee, the building will be the first freestanding facility in the U.S. devoted to the study and exhibition of modern and contemporary drawings.

[toxteth o'grady]

The new Country Playhouse

https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/575149_10151509003806570_353826424_n.jpg

That's sharp. It's going to make all the other community theatres jealous.:cheers:

[Urbannizer]

Demolition on 3400 Montrose to Begin Next Month

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3797/10879137706_1344498218_z.jpg

3400 Montrose will be replaced with a 30-story highrise apartments/condos by the Hanover group. Demolition will start sometime in January 2014. It will not be imploded like the Macy's in downtown due to abestos removal. The architects are still working on the preliminary plans. The old shopping center on Weshimer and Montrose will also come down soon to make way for a hotel and mix-use development. Get ready, Montrose is going to change.

[Urbannizer]

Midtown Park Renovations

Rendering:

http://p50400.ipscdn.com/uploads/monthly_08_2013/post-5633-0-33383000-1377571501.png

Progress:

https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/1480767_782803935069835_1964260887_n.jpg

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2818/11656514646_70280b2039_b.jpg

https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1459130_782803931736502_991219960_n.jpg

https://scontent-b-dfw.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/1497502_782803938403168_867448872_n.jpg

[Austinlee]

This pisses me off; Audi brokers can build nice buildings like this one in other cities but where I live all the big companies build these shit Kmart big box style buildings. :(

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7293/11586834824_34575568f0_b.jpg

http://pictures.dealer.com/s/sewickleyaudiaoa/0667/8981618f4046387200b87d31c27c6353.jpg

[AviationGuy]

This pisses me off; Audi brokers can build nice buildings like this one in other cities but where I live all the big companies build these shit Kmart big box style buildings. :(



http://pictures.dealer.com/s/sewickleyaudiaoa/0667/8981618f4046387200b87d31c27c6353.jpg

But yours doesn't have a leaning telephone pole in front of it. :)

[photoLith]

Once I visit Houston again whenever that will be it will be completely different than the downtown and Heights I lived in and rode my bike around from 1996-2012. I cant believe how fast Mid town is changing. Its crazy, in a good way. Although Im sad that Montrose will not be the funky hipster/gay mecca it was while I lived there.

[Urbannizer]

Willowick Park

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2863/11682254033_487abae227_b.jpg
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5524/11682256163_c440cc9946_b.jpg

Birdsall Memorial

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7448/11682643723_18ffa42169_b.jpg

[Double L]

Although Im sad that Montrose will not be the funky hipster/gay mecca it was while I lived there.

Why would Montrose no longer be a funky hipster/gay mecca?

[toxteth o'grady]

Why would Montrose no longer be a funky hipster/gay mecca?

I think it still has a certain amount of hipster funky gayness to it, but the neighborhood is starting to convert over to big-box structures like the ones all over Bellaire. Prices and rents are also going up, which is going to make the neighborhood less affordable to the bohemians who gave it its character for all those years.

[Urbannizer]

River Oaks District

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2865/11700448744_5e5aeb5419_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7460/11700836566_7e9864d83d_b.jpg

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3819/11700081025_e89d519144_b.jpg

2229 San Felipe

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3826/11698879835_19670d84e4_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5493/11698886155_e4b00edaf1_b.jpg

Hanover Post Oak: Working on the 23rd floor.

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2828/11699828186_f5a75d2e8c_b.jpg

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2835/11699432494_902d8bc0f6_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5511/11699318133_d2f3c723eb_b.jpg

2929 Weslayan: Working on the 23rd floor

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2844/11700219094_d52cdc7e2d_b.jpg

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3762/11699851295_b73681641e_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7327/11700230994_321a537acd_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7432/11700240934_60ed61a176_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7293/11700319343_3c37ebc325_b.jpg

The Sovereign at Regent Square

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3813/11699814486_6418729349_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5506/11699421154_bc020a63f6_b.jpg

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2834/11699810756_334b8c598f_b.jpg
All updates by BaderJF on HAIF

[Urbannizer]

20-Story apartment tower w/ 303-units proposed for Montrose:

http://www.houstonarchitecture.com/haif/topic/29424-20-story-apartment-tower-for-montrose/#entry444535

[Urbannizer]

Chevron has grabbed another block in downtown, for future growth (another tower/HQ relocation to Houston).

Chevron Purchases Downtown Block

Chevron Corp., which last month said it was putting plans to build a 50-story office tower downtown on-hold, had recently purchased another parcel nearby.

In late November, the oil and gas giant acquired the block bounded by Milam, Travis, Leeland and Pease. The property is used primarily as a surface parking lot, but it contains a low-rise office building at its southwest corner.


A Chevron spokesman said Friday that the acquisition is part of the company's "broader effort to support future growth in downtown Houston."

"This property acquisition simply gives us additional facilities flexibility as we expand downtown," Justin Higgs said in an emailed statement. "This transaction further underscores our commitment to building the previously announced urban campus facility and continuing to expand our employee base and overall presence in downtown Houston."

This southern end of downtown has seen some significant changes of late. Projects are under construction or in the works for residential developments and a new hotel project.

Chevron's new parcel is situated between the new Tellepsen Family Downtown YMCA and the Exxon Mobil building at 800 Bell. Exxon is planning to move out of its building and into a new campus north of town in 2015. The Irving-based oil company sold its building to San Francisco's Shorenstein Properties, which is planning a major renovation of the property.

"This block benefits from all of the development around it," Central Houston's Laura Van Ness said of Chevron's new land.

Chevron purchases downtown block - Houston Chronicle (http://www.houstonchronicle.com/business/real-estate/article/Chevron-purchases-downtown-block-5112259.php)

[bobbyv]

Damn, Houston is on fire, soon it will look like Chicago from a distance.

[Urbannizer]

*bump*

[Urbannizer]

Updates by Jax on HAIF - 1/3

Skyhouse
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3666/11742600686_8484ec7b6e_b.jpg

The Sovereign
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5524/11741836625_5d33719119_b.jpg

4306 Yoakum
http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2854/11741849945_15004ae702_b.jpg

2929 Weslayan
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7429/11741839455_64a8718964_b.jpg

BHP Billiton: 1/3 by fastesdisatr
http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j83/TscreamosoulT/34E2A8DF-84D3-424F-A737-1704A700421F_zpsdgasqmwm.png

[Houstono]

Any news on the International Tower? :???:

[Urbannizer]

Any news on the International Tower? :???:

Stream Realty was hoping to announce the project officially before the new year. It's most likely that they are waiting to secure a tenant first.

[JManc]

The amount of construction and new projects planned in this town is staggering.

[Urbannizer]

Updates by Skylineview - 1/4

BLVD Place & Hanover Post Oak
http://i1241.photobucket.com/albums/gg515/SkylineView/2014%2001%2004/IMG_2039_zps2ae5c984.jpg

Astoria
http://i1241.photobucket.com/albums/gg515/SkylineView/2014%2001%2004/IMG_2037_zps4902906b.jpg

BHP Billiton
http://i1241.photobucket.com/albums/gg515/SkylineView/2014%2001%2004/IMG_2038_zps59f48dad.jpg

http://i1241.photobucket.com/albums/gg515/SkylineView/2014%2001%2004/IMG_2036_zpsd539f641.jpg

By richfish (crane being assembled)
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3767/11761780785_2b9db8d6e7_b.jpg

3100 Post Oak
https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/1526533_435649876563119_1243285715_n.jpg

UH Football Stadium
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7291/11759412795_c647e1f009_b.jpg

609 Main at Texas: Base for the crane on site, by Urbanize713
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5546/11760763634_784410c4ef_b.jpg

[Urbannizer]

New rendering for Pearl Midtown.

http://pearlmidtown.com/images/splash-slide-001.jpg

[Urbannizer]

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3697/11454975653_9f3700b7a5_b.jpg

Residential Downtown Projects: Update

I've gained some new info on some the residential projects planned for downtown (click link above for development map).

Camden Property Trust (#31):The address for this project is 1521 Austin St. & 1404 Leeland St.

Two 9-10-floor residential buildings
Apartments over parking garage
Active ground floor uses front La Branch and Bell on Block 330; La Branch and Leeland on Block 346.
Phase one (Block 330) begins in Feb. 2015, Block 346 begins in Feb. 2017

Allied Orion Group (#24): Address for this 10-story high-rise project is 1800 San Jacinto.

Marquette Land Investments (#17): Address for this 28-story high-rise is 1400 Texas.

New project not yet listed on the map: A residential high-rise with 463-units.

[glowrock]

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3697/11454975653_9f3700b7a5_b.jpg

Residential Downtown Projects: Update

I've gained some new info on some the residential projects planned for downtown (click link above for development map).

Camden Property Trust (#31):The address for this project is 1521 Austin St. & 1404 Leeland St.


Two 9-10-floor residential buildings



Apartments over parking garage



Active ground floor uses front La Branch and Bell on Block 330; La Branch and Leeland on Block 346.



Phase one (Block 330) begins in Feb. 2015, Block 346 begins in Feb. 2017


Allied Orion Group (#24): Address for this 10-story high-rise project is 1800 San Jacinto.

Marquette Land Investments (#17): Address for this 28-story high-rise is 1400 Texas.

New project not yet listed on the map: A residential high-rise with 463-units.

Excellent update. Thanks for the information!

Aaron (Glowrock)

[TexasPlaya]

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3697/11454975653_9f3700b7a5_b.jpg

Residential Downtown Projects: Update

I've gained some new info on some the residential projects planned for downtown (click link above for development map).

Camden Property Trust (#31):The address for this project is 1521 Austin St. & 1404 Leeland St.

Two 9-10-floor residential buildings
Apartments over parking garage
Active ground floor uses front La Branch and Bell on Block 330; La Branch and Leeland on Block 346.
Phase one (Block 330) begins in Feb. 2015, Block 346 begins in Feb. 2017

Allied Orion Group (#24): Address for this 10-story high-rise project is 1800 San Jacinto.

Marquette Land Investments (#17): Address for this 28-story high-rise is 1400 Texas.

New project not yet listed on the map: A residential high-rise with 463-units.

Do you know if the downtown subsidy for residential has just about met the quota?

[cloud713]

Do you know if the downtown subsidy for residential has just about met the quota?

It has, they are at 2,300something out of 2,500 units. They are trying to increase the quota with the city.

[N90]

It's odd not seeing the 33-36 story residential tower behind Hess tower not on the development map.

[Urbannizer]

It's odd not seeing the 33-36 story residential tower behind Hess tower not on the development map.

It's planned, but that high-rise is not listed because it was leaked early.

Maybe this 463-unit project is for Block 35 (Preston/Milam/Louisiana & Congress), it should make an appearance on the next development map.

Do you know if the downtown subsidy for residential has just about met the quota?

2,355 units, the 463-unit proposal will push it over the cap to 2,818 units. As Cloud713 pointed out, they are looking to raise the total of # of units for incentives.

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5502/11778819616_15aa141cfb_b.jpg

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3717/11778821226_ae85202037_b.jpg

[Urbannizer]

Another Update on the Downtown Retail District


Roadwork to improve Dallas St. (wider sidewalks, on-street parking) will begin in November 2014. Completion date is March 2016.

[Urbannizer]

Memorial City (West Houston): 1/3 By Elina999 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/69730369@N06/) on Flickr

9807 & 9811 Katy Fwy: Two new office buildings

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7346/11796114583_03e012a952_b.jpg

Towne Centre I

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3816/11796297754_08ca956108_b.jpg

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3806/11795857335_9fd80b0dc4_b.jpg

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3746/11796645716_4867a63784_b.jpg

Ascent at CityCentre

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3706/11796289634_e9678faa4c_b.jpg

Pearl Woodlake

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2883/11795864395_1a5e8dbb22_b.jpg

District at Washington

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5512/11796141543_55fe3ecef2_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5514/11796637136_2e010118a0_b.jpg

Jonathan's The Rub

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2815/11796116793_416832953a_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5510/11796128073_18f8482233_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5510/11796119203_281821337e_b.jpg

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5538/11796126293_efa5e82124_b.jpg

[AviationGuy]

Interesting how palm trees show up in those pics. I think they're great landscaping trees for businesses, apartments, and condos.

[JoninATX]

Where did those 2 new class a office buildings off Katy come from? That project is a beast!

[N90]

Looks like Mayor Parker was right when she said this wave of projects and developments will either be under construction or completed by the Superbowl in 2017.

http://www.bisnow.com/commercial-real-estate/houston/557-14-predictions-for-2014-part-i/

Most projects will probably lift off within 3 years. Healthy way to balance supply and demand before introducing the next wave of projects in a few years.

The objective is great, not to end up an oversaturated/overbuilt market.

[TexasPlaya]

It's planned, but that high-rise is not listed because it was leaked early.

Maybe this 463-unit project is for Block 35 (Preston/Milam/Louisiana & Congress), it should make an appearance on the next development map.



2,355 units, the 463-unit proposal will push it over the cap to 2,818 units. As Cloud713 pointed out, they are looking to raise the total of # of units for incentives.

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5502/11778819616_15aa141cfb_b.jpg

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3717/11778821226_ae85202037_b.jpg

Thanks for the info. What is going up on block 79 in your graph?

[Urbannizer]

Where did those 2 new class a office buildings off Katy come from? That project is a beast!

It was rumored MetroNational would tear down that Fitness Center for a new office tower (they've been quiet on the manner, w/ no official announcements). What was unexpected though - two office towers and the size of the project.

Thanks for the info. What is going up on block 79 in your graph?

Block 79 is the redevelopment of the former Texaco Building.

[Urbannizer]

*bump*

[Urbannizer]

Streetlights at Midlane: 344-units, 8-stories. Early 2016 completion.

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5475/11716901134_5294f6ffd6_b.jpg

Construction Pics by BaderJF, 1/5:

https://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/961x541q90/194/6wc2.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/961x541q90/843/wiv2.jpg

Streetlights at Midlane is the mid-rise portion of 4200 Westheimer:

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5514/11450882386_dfb19e1fe4_b.jpg

[N90]

Recently completed Granite Briar Park in Westchase is now 50% full. http://m.bizjournals.com/houston/morning_call/2014/01/two-tenants-sign-on-at-granite-briarpark.html

Houston and Galveston's cruise industry are doing well too. Continued expansion. http://m.bizjournals.com/houston/blog/2014/01/on-the-horizon-for-houston-area.html

Part 2 of 2014 Houston predictions http://www.bisnow.com/commercial-real-estate/houston/569-14-predictions-for-2014-part-ii/

[Urbannizer]

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3729/11825883993_276ef3ceb4_b.jpg

St. Luke's, Baylor announce new partnership, new hospital

Baylor College of Medicine and Catholic Health Initiatives on Tuesday officially announced details of an expanded partnership, including the creation of a new hospital that will eventually replace the current St. Luke’s hospital in the Texas Medical Center.

The newly renamed CHI St. Luke’s Health, which Denver-based Catholic Health bought in May for $2 billion, and Baylor signed a joint-venture agreement to open a new, acute-care, open-staff hospital on Baylor’s McNair Campus in the TMC.

The two institutions will jointly operate the hospital, which will be named CHI St. Luke’s Health Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center.

The first phase of the project will be a 250-bed inpatient facility and is expected to open by spring 2015. The second phase will add up to 400 additional acute-care beds and is slated for completion in 2018.

The new hospital will eventually replace the existing 850-bed St. Luke’s Medical Center facility on the TMC campus, which CHI President Kevin Lofton previously told Houston Business Journal would eventually be replaced.

Wayne Keathley, formerly president of the Baylor College of Medicine Medical Center and Health Network, has been named president of the existing hospital and the planned hospital to be completed on the McNair Campus.

Full Article: http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/news/2014/01/07/st-lukes-baylor-announce-new.html

[JoninATX]

It was rumored MetroNational would tear down that Fitness Center for a new office tower (they've been quiet on the manner, w/ no official announcements). What was unexpected though - two office towers and the size of the project.

Awesome, this is going to be quiet a large project.

[Urbannizer]

609 Main: Crane going up.

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2877/11825709473_380c2a907f_b.jpg

806 Main / JW Marriott

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2862/11825437655_a5d9d6ec69_b.jpg
Photos by rechlin on HAIF

[TexasPlaya]

Block 79 is the redevelopment of the former Texaco Building.

Finger's building isn't on the list? Thought that was officially under construction.

[TexasPlaya]

Looks like Mayor Parker was right when she said this wave of projects and developments will either be under construction or completed by the Superbowl in 2017.

http://www.bisnow.com/commercial-real-estate/houston/557-14-predictions-for-2014-part-i/

Most projects will probably lift off within 3 years. Healthy way to balance supply and demand before introducing the next wave of projects in a few years.

The objective is great, not to end up an oversaturated/overbuilt market.

Should have a good amount of additional hotels, local residents, and retail within walking distance of the rail. It will be great seeing a lot of the holes alongside the rail being filled up.

[Urbannizer]

Finger's building isn't on the list? Thought that was officially under construction.

It's under construction, but the developer did not apply for the downtown residential incentive program. This means the total #of units coming to downtown is actually 3,215.

[Urbannizer]

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5492/11818283463_3ef54167e7_b.jpg
Central Library Plaza Rendered

More DT Updates


New Chevron Block 352


Short-term plans call for this block to be used as parking and lay-down site during construction of 1600 Louisiana.


6 Houston Center


All construction documents set in place for work to begin this quarter.


Allen Center Redevelopment / New One Allen Center Facade


Official announcement expected late 1Q to 2Q. Renderings of the new facade for One Allen Center also expected to be released.


State National Bank Building Reno


The owner of the building recently asked the DRA to increase funding for the renovations. It is unknown whether the building will be converted to hotel or residential use.


16-Story Parking Garage


Construction on this monster garage will begin this month at 1311 Louisiana; expected to be complete by September 2015.


New Park for Southern Downtown


We've seen reports that highlight the lack of green-space in Southern DT, but plans are being set in place for a park in the area. In the very early stages, 1/2 - 1 block will be acquired by for the park. This will be a joint effort by the Downtown Management District, COH Parks Dept. and TIRZ #3.


Jones Plaza


Plans to redesign Jones Plaza are still on the table, first thing is to create a concept/design that ties the plaza more into the Theater District, but it will be a while before we see any work going on. The plaza was renovated in 2001, but criticized for not being 'inviting' and not having enough green space.


Central Library Plaza


Rendered above, the plaza will receive improvements for pedestrians. Work is expected to begin sometime this year.


http://downtownhouston.org/site_media/uploads/attachments/2014-01-07/Downtown_Real_Estate_Update_2013-4Q.pdf

[glowrock]

It's amazing how fast the crane went up at the Main/Texas site. Monday evening I saw a monster piece of equipment that looked like a huge mobile crane and then of course just the base of the tower crane itself, by the time I got home from work late yesterday afternoon I was staring at a 200+ foot tall tower crane!

Damn, they can work fast when they want to!

Aaron (Glowrock)

[shakman]

It's amazing how fast the crane went up at the Main/Texas site. Monday evening I saw a monster piece of equipment that looked like a huge mobile crane and then of course just the base of the tower crane itself, by the time I got home from work late yesterday afternoon I was staring at a 200+ foot tall tower crane!

Damn, they can work fast when they want to!

Aaron (Glowrock)

I was hoping for an implosion rather than removing the current structure floor-by-floor.

[glowrock]

I was hoping for an implosion rather than removing the current structure floor-by-floor.

I agree, no doubt about it. But I'm wondering if the tower crane being installed is ONLY for the demolition or if it might be used for construction as well. The concrete forms and pour took a good week and a half for them to build, it would seem kind of a waste to only use it for demolition purposes.

Aaron (Glowrock)

[shakman]

I agree, no doubt about it. But I'm wondering if the tower crane being installed is ONLY for the demolition or if it might be used for construction as well. The concrete forms and pour took a good week and a half for them to build, it would seem kind of a waste to only use it for demolition purposes.

Aaron (Glowrock)

A tower crane pad is not a small footing. These pads are quite massive since there will be a large amount of dead weight and the need to accompany shear /torsion movements caused by the tower crane itself. After the concrete has been poured, the tower crane cannot be assembled until the concrete breaks have met the required strength and then approved by the structural enigineer of record and /or whom ever else has to bless the breaks.

Though you maybe correct about the tower crane being utilized for demolition and construction if 609 Main has no sub-levels.

[JoninATX]

That's a good question.

Quote from an article
Excavation and foundation activities will occur in March 2014, and after 36 months of construction, the building will be ready for occupancy.


But it also says will go down 2 levels for parking, & 11 levels on top. So I'm not sure if the crane is temporary or permit.

http://www.hines.com/press/releases/10-24-13.aspx

[Urbannizer]

Hines is moving fast to demolish Texas tower, while Skanska is working at a snails pace to demolish the Houston Club Building.

I have a rendering and more information on the 20-Story apartment tower for Montrose, will post later.

[shakman]

That's a good question.

Quote from an article


But it also says will go down 2 levels for parking, & 11 levels on top. So I'm not sure if the crane is temporary or permit.

http://www.hines.com/press/releases/10-24-13.aspx

In that case the tower crane would be only for demolition. Logically it would make more sense since excavation has to occur. ...and from a safety perspective. It would not be a pretty sight if the excavation undermines the tower crane footing.

I have seen tower cranes used for demolition of taller structures.

[shakman]

Urbannizer -

The link indicates 5 Allen Center at 50-floors??? Has it changed again (for the better) ?

[N90]

Rumor is that Rivers Oaks will supposedly get a new Skyhouse Tower by Atlanta based Novare. My guess is the design will be similar to their Buckhead Skyhouse.

I knew they'd build another in Houston but didn't think they were looking this early. They've already got a "Skyhouse" family in Atlanta of a couple of towers.

[toxteth o'grady]

HBJ's forecast suggests that residential demand is outstripping supply on all fronts, so there may be good reason for Novare to be looking for another building. I'm a bit perplexed by HBJ's continued reports that Houston is running out of lots for new homes; seems to me the developers would be scrambling to convert land into homesites.

And the reports that office supply may start to get overbuilt seem to indicate a slowdown is coming.

[toxteth o'grady]

Urbannizer -

The link indicates 5 Allen Center at 50-floors??? Has it changed again (for the better) ?

I think some of the information in that report was not updated, and that may be older information. I note the shorter height for International Tower.