Houston 'Abandons' Street for Convention Center Expansion

The Houston City Council has approved a plan to close off and “abandon” several city streets as part of the expansion plan for the George R. Brown Convention Center, a move that local residents have criticized as out of step with their needs.

As Faith Bugenhagen explains in the Houston Chronicle, “The street closure, which Houston First officials have stated is necessary to construct a contiguous south-building addition to the convention center, passed with near unanimous approval.” The street, along with portions of others, will be sold to Houston First, the organization that operates the convention center, which says the expansion will bring new jobs and economic development to the neighborhood. 

However, community members say the city did not engage in a robust enough public process and that the change will hinder connectivity in the area. “Opponents, including members of a group called People for Polk, urged the city to complete the required appraisals, release a timeline, and plan for a two-way Leeland Street alternative if Polk is closed.” 

The city council will take another vote to finalize the sale and formal abandonment of the streets.