The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly in Boomtown: A Look at Houston’s Growth
The Early Days of Houston: From Indigenous Peoples to the Allen Brothers
The Karankawa, the original inhabitants of Texas’s Gulf Coast, lived on the land for hundreds of years. Later, in 1836, the Allen brothers purchased a large swath of land for just $5,000. With a misleading brochure that made the terrain look hilly and picturesque, they set out to convince speculators to build a city on a muddy swamp. Little did they know that they were creating what would become the United States’ fourth-largest city.
The Modern-Day Houston: A City in Constant Growth
Today, Houston is still growing. Over the past 20 years, more than 20,000 townhouses have been built, dividing lots formerly occupied by single-family homes to make room for denser housing. Residential high-rises are getting higher and more luxurious by the floor. Master-planned communities have sprouted from the prairie in newly formed suburbs around the city, contributing to its infamous sprawl. In the floodplains, where the Allens thought it was safe to build a city, many residents who have been impacted by hurricanes have decided not to move out, but to build up. The I-45 expansion will add lanes to the already massive freeway while demolishing over 1,500 homes, businesses, and places of worship. On the other hand, our parks and green spaces are growing, thanks to well-funded beautification projects.
What’s Not Growing in Houston?
One thing that’s not growing in Houston is our public transit system. Additionally, opportunities for low-income families are often left out of Houston’s growth, pushed out by development that claims to be for them. Here’s a look at the good, the bad, and the ugly in Boomtown.
A Call to Action
As Houston continues to grow, it’s essential to ensure that its development is equitable and beneficial for all its residents. This means prioritizing public transportation, affordable housing, and community engagement. By working together, we can build a brighter future for Houston’s diverse population.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current state of Houston’s public transit system?
A: Houston’s public transit system is in need of improvement. With limited options and frequent delays, many residents struggle to get around the city.
Q: How is the city addressing the issue of affordable housing?
A: While there are efforts to increase affordable housing options, many low-income families are still being pushed out of the city by gentrification and rising costs.
Q: What can I do to make a positive impact on Houston’s growth?
A: You can start by getting involved in your local community, volunteering at organizations that support affordable housing and public transportation, and advocating for policies that benefit all Houstonians.
