News Archive

New People and Dog Park near George R Brown

Aug. 24, 2005, 9:36AM

Park planners are hoping to lure families downtown
Copyright 2005 Houston Chronicle

The planned Houston downtown park would be much more than a 12-acre green space in the tea-cup-shaped plot fronting the George R. Brown Convention Center, organizers say.

Preliminary plans released Tuesday call for a lush but engaging park bounded by Avenida de las Americas and Lamar, McKinney and La Branch streets that would keep families coming back.

Features include:

1. The Urban Square: Across from the Hilton Americas Hotel, the area is seen initially as a place for weddings or receptions. Later, it could feature high-speed wireless Internet.

2. Restaurant and Treehouse annex: Organizers see the section as a major draw, with indoor and outdoor dining.

3. The Pond: The area, on the park's north side, would feature a shaded jogging trail and perhaps a water park for children.

4. The Promenade: Would be built along what is now Crawford Street, tying the restaurant and pond together with a walkway that has market stalls.

5. Stream and Children's Stage: Intended as a peaceful retreat and a focal point for families.

6. Picnic area and dog runs: On the park's western side, with a fenced area for dogs.

7. Oak Alee: Dense trees would provide deep shade in this section, which also would have a café.

8. The Great Lawn: In the park's center, the area would anchor the site and serve as a gathering place for small festivals or even outdoor movies.

9. Future development: The northeast corner could have another restaurant or be finished later with a science garden or indoor exhibit hall.

— MATT STILES

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