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Historic Richmond, A Vision and Historic Building Study

Center for Urban and Regional Planning Research - College of Architecture, Construction and Planning The University of Texas at - May 2015 Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond,

2 business and investment opportunities in the area; the creation Preface of a botanical garden and other park areas that will provide As the county seat for Fort Bend County, the of Richmond additional amenities to the center city; the development of new Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 is an important part of a growing region that includes several business and housing options for the area; and, the creation other major , a county that houses over 600,000 people, of a long-range plan to integrate and eventually reroute the and a dynamic that encompasses nearly railroad line that now cuts across the District. These initiatives 5 million people. Equally important, Richmond lies within a and projects, if carried out over time, will have a significant region that includes a wide range of growing energy, health impact on Richmond’s Historic District. They will also set the and technology industries, a world-class port and ready access stage for additional investment and development in the district. to the global marketplace. Richmond is also a city steeped in history, and has a rich legacy of historical homes and traditions Developing any long-term strategy to transform an area or that go back over 190 years. is also a city seeking to redefine district requires an awareness of the many parts that make up itself. The underlying premise of this Downtown Vision and a city’s core. Richmond’s center city is no different. It is the Historic Building Study is that Richmond will continue to result of years of development and change. It includes such grow and prosper while retaining and even building on its things as business enterprises of all sizes and shapes, cultural historical legacy. Another key premise driving this study is assets, homes, social networks, infrastructures, such as water that a revitalized Downtown Historic District is crucial for its and sewer lines, streets, governmental entities, civic groups and long-term economic future and well being. Both provide the services to name only a few. The center of cities also tend to framework for a comprehensive redevelopment/revitalization be complex and interactive. If these core areas are not taken effort that is centered around several strategic initiatives and care of they can lag behind other parts of the city. They can projects. also become isolated. Once this happens residents and visitors stay away and businesses in these areas decline or shut down. These initiatives and specific projects include the transformation This is beginning to happen in Richmond’s Historic District. of the Historic District into a distinctive core encompassing If no action is taken the City of Richmond may face the real a destination marketplace; plazas and improved access to the possibility of having a downtown that is no longer viable. This Brazos River; the development of a museum district that will Vision Study seeks to provide an alternative. It shows what link to the downtown core area and surrounding residential Richmond’s downtown area could look like. It also shows how areas; and the integration of the downtown district with the the local leadership can move forward with the revitalization region-wide transit and trail network to improve pedestrian and redevelopment of this core area. access and mobility. Other projects discussed include the development of a hotel in the District to generate new Dr. Richard Tangum, CURPR Dr. Maggie Valentine, CURPR 3 Ernest Gerlach, CURPR May 2015 Claire Rogers Robert Haas, City of Richmond Acknowledgements Jess Stuart Nancy Hentschel, Morton Street Winery The advice and assistance of the citizens of Fort Bend Barbara Johnson, Keep Richmond Beautiful County and the City of Richmond have been invaluable in Fort Bend County Museum Association Kathryn Joseph, Joseph’s Jim Keller, FoxFire Studio the preparation of this report. We would like to especially Claire Rogers, Executive Director, FBMA Jamie Knight, Fort Bend County Facilities acknowledge the following: Chris Godbold, Curator, FBMA Lenert Kurtz, City Public Works Shereen Sampson, Site Manager, FBMA City of Richmond Susan Lang, City Finance Director Chuck Littlepage, Ice Blue Advertising Evalyn Moore, Mayor 2014 UTSA Planning Charrette Members Lori Littlepage, Ice Blue Advertising Glen Gilmore, City Commissioner Roland Adamson, The George Foundation Erica Martinez, Historic Richmond Association Jesse Torres, City Commissioner Brandon Baca, Attack Poverty Lonnie Meadows, Richmond Historical Commission Terri Vela, City Manager Barry Beard, Richmond Historical Commission Penny Meek, Henderson-Wessendorff Foundation Robert Haas, City of Richmond Carol Borrego, Fort Bend County, CDBG Evalyn Moore, Mayor

Lori Bownds, City of Richmond Larry Pittman, Historic Richmond Association Development Corporation of Richmond Albert Cantu, Fire Marshal Pat Pittman, Keep Richmond Beautiful Evalyn Moore, President Chesley Choudhury, Tanches Communications Craig Rhodes, Centerpoint Energy Joe Bonham Tanaz Choudhury, Tanches Communications Joe Robinson, Henderson-Wessendorff Foundation Carl Drozd Ann Council, Richmond Historical Commission Claire Rogers, Fort Bend County Museum Association Carlos Garcia Cristi Cruz, David’s Fine Meats Marco Ruiz, Fort Bend SBDC Glen Gilmore David Cruz, David’s Fine Meats Shereen Sampson, Fort Bend County Museum Dave Scott Ron Castillo, Fort Bend Corps Association Jesse Torres Barrett Davis, Harrison Foundation Laura Scarlato, City Secretary Rob Tobias, Director Curtis Davis, Prairie View A&M Kate Singleton, WFBMD Leigh Ann Dawson, CFBCA Jess Stuart, Richmond Historical Commission Richmond Historical Commission Cindy Drabek, Richmond Historical Commission Rob Tobias, Development Corporation of Richmond Mike Flory, Greater Fort Bend EDC Terri Vela, City Manager Cindy Drabek, Chair Tony Francis, Historical Richmond Association Laurel Wendt, The Studio of Richmond Barry Beard Cody Gaines, Beth Wolf, Fort Bend County Ann Council

Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, Julie Gaston, Henderson-Wessendorff Foundation Rebecca Haas Rebecca Haas, Richmond Historical Commission Lonnie Meadows 4 Texians...... 11 Develop a Museum District...... 38 UTSA Team Americans...... 13 Link with County Transit Services and City Trail Network.....39 Develop New Lodging Options...... 40

College of Architecture Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Develop a New Botanical Garden/Conservancy...... 41 Center for Urban and Regional Planning Research Background Assessment Initiate a Main Street Program...... 42 Dr. Richard Tangum, Director, CURPR Future Parking...... 43 Dr. Maggie Valentine, Professor Richmond SWOT...... 20 Expand the Downtown District’s Economic Potential...... 44 Bert Moyer, Research Associate I, CURPR Introduction...... 20 Ernest Gerlach, Senior Fellow CURPR Strengths...... 20 Implementation Plan Scott Pusich, Graduate Research Assistant Weaknesses...... 20 Nathan Foote, Graduate Research Assistant Opportunities...... 20 Putting in Place a Strategy...... 46 Melissa Ramos, Graduate Research Assistant Threats...... 21 Implementation Strategies...... 46 Luis Zamora, Graduate Research Assistant Circulation...... 22 Implementing the Plan - Areas of Responsibility...... 46 Nishma Proma, Graduate Research Assistant Economic Conditions...... 23 Public Sector - City of Richmond/Fort Bend County...... 46 Sales Tax (Gross Sales and Taxable Sales)...... 23 Private Sector - City of Richmond/Fort Bend County...... 46 Table of Contents 100 Year Flood Plain...... 24 Implementation Plan - Downtown Proposed Trail Network...... 25 Redevelopment/Revitalization...... 47 Preface...... 3 Specific Initiatives...... 47 Acknowledgments...... 4 Economic Development/Investment Strategies...... 52 UTSA Team...... 5 Historic Building Survey Next Steps...... 53 Contents...... 5 List of Figures...... 5 Historic Building Survey...... 28 Sources Consulted...... 54 List of Tables...... 6 Options for the Future Appendices Introduction Recommendations...... 32 Appendix A: Summary of Community SWOT Session...... 57 Mitigate the Impact of the Railroad on the Downtown Regional Context...... 8 Appendix B: Community Resources...... 60 History...... 9 District...... 32 Auia / Karankawa Indians...... 9 Develop the Downtown District as a Destination Europeans...... 9 Marketplace...... 34 Anglos...... 10 Develop Richmond Plaza and Amphitheater...... 36 Develop A New Richmond Landing...... 37 5 Figure 28: Proposed Tree Buffer...... 32 Figures Figure 29: Proposed Viaduct Design...... 33 Figure 1: Regional Context Map - Richmond, TX...... 8 Figure 30: Proposed Downtown District...... 34 Figure 2: Karankawa Fishing Camp...... 9 Figure 31: Bird’s-Eye View of Richmond with Proposed Figure 3: Long-Smith Cottage...... 11 Improvements...... 35 Figure 4: Bill of Sale to E. Bailey, signed by Robert Eden Handy Figure 32: Proposed Richmond Plaza and Amphitheater...... 36 and William Lusk, dated April 7, 1838...... 12 Figure 33: Proposed New Richmond Landing...... 37 Figure 5: Plat Map of Fort Bend County...... 12 Figure 34: Proposed City Museum...... 38 Figure 6: The c.1860 Greek Revival Lamar-Calder House...... 13 Figure 35: Proposed Trolley...... 39 Figure 7: Victorian T.B. Wessendorff House...... 13 Figure 36: Proposed New Hotel...... 40 Figure 8: McNabb House...... 14 Figure 37: Proposed Botanical Garden and Boutique Hotel.....41 Figure 9: T.B. Wessendorff Lumber Co., c. 1895...... 15 Figure 38: Proposed Main Street Improvements...... 42 Figure 10: Drugstore at 3rd and Morton, c. 1890...... 15 Figure 39: Proposed and Existing Parking Map...... 43 Figure 11: Interior of Wessendorff Lumber Co...... 15 Figure 40: Proposed Community Plaza and Multi-purpose Hall.44 Figure 12: Fort Bend County Jail...... 15 Figure 41: City-Owned Properties in the Downtown District..50 Figure 13: 1908 Fort Bend County Courthouse...... 15 Figure 14: Railroad Street inundated by flood, 1899...... 16 Figure 15: Methodist Church, 1922...... 17 Tables Figure 16: SWOT Session - Richmond, TX...... 20 Table 1: Economic Conditions in Richmond and Fort Bend Figure 17: SWOT Session - Richmond, TX...... 20 County, 2012...... 23 Figure 18: SWOT Session - Richmond, TX...... 21 Figure 19: SWOT Session - Richmond, TX...... 21 Figure 20: Map of Annual Average Daily Traffic, 2013...... 22 Figure 21: Annual Average Daily Traffic Counts, 2009-2013...22 Figure 22: Fort Bend County Annual Sales Tax Revenue, 2002-2013...... 23 Figure 23: Richmond Annual Sales Tax Revenue, 2002-2013..23 Figure 24: Retail Along Morton Street...... 23 Figure 25: 100-Year Floodplain and Floodway - Richmond,TX.24

Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, Figure 26: Proposed Pedestrian Network Concepts...... 25 Figure 27: Proposed Historic District Extension...... 29 6 Source: Courtesy the Fort Bend Museum Association, Richmond, Texas

Introduction Polk Milam Tyler Walker Jasper

Livingston Huntsville Bryan Brazos ¨¦§45 Coldspring College Goodrich Station San New Jacinto £69 Caldwell ¤ Grimes Waverly Shepherd Burleson Snook Anderson Regional Context Millican Willis

Navasota Montgomery Panorama North Richmond, Texas, is located in Fort Bend County approximately Cleveland Kountze Somerville Cut and Conroe Shoot Hardin Lee Cleveland 15 miles southwest of . It is the oldest incorporated Montgomery Todd city in the county and is also the county seat. Richmond is Mission Splendora

Magnolia Woodloch ¨¦§69 Plum Washington Grove located along a bend in the Brazos River which gives Fort Bend Burton Brenham Shenandoah Patton Roman Village Forest Hardin Oak Ridge Bevil Carmine North Liberty Sour Lake County its name, and was one of the first incorporated cities Stagecoach Oaks ¤£290 Dayton Sour Lake Lakes Daisetta Tomball Kenefick Round Hempstead Prairie in the . However, in terms of population, it is Ames Top Pine View Dayton Waller China Island Liberty 90 Nome one of the smallest cities in Fort Bend County; in 2010, it had a ¤£ Devers Waller

population of 11,679 while Fort Bend County had a population Industry Humble Bellville Mont of 585,375. It is part of the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Jersey Fayetteville ¨¦§45 Belvieu Village Old Fayette Austin River-Winfree Land Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), as shown in Figure 1. 20 Mile Harris Katy ¨¦§10 Pattison San Spring Jefferson In 2010, this area (also known as the Area) Felipe Brookshire Valley Hilshire ¨¦§10 Village Village Jacinto Cove Sealy West City Beach Anahuac Bunker Hill Brazos University Galena City had a population of 5,920,416. Country Village Houston Baytown Columbus Place ¤£29 Park 10 Mile Bellaire Simonton Deer Chambers §10 Fulshear South Morgan's ¨¦ Park Houston Weston ¨¦§610 La Porte Point Lakes 5 Mile Meadows Pasadena Place Wallis Richmond’s primary market area (within a 5-mile radius) Stafford Taylor Shoreacres Colorado Lake Eagle Orchard Brookside Richmond Sugar Village Village Seabrook Lake Nassau El Lago includes most of the larger neighboring city of Rosenberg; its Rosenberg Fort Land Missouri Bend §69 Pearland Bay ¨¦ City Fort Webster Shores secondary market area (within a 10-mile radius) includes most Kemah Bend Arcola ¤£59 Thompsons Manvel Friendswood Pleak League Texas Dickinson City of Sugar Land (the city with the largest population in the county: Kendleton City Fairchilds Iowa Sandy Colony 78,817 in 2010) and most of northern Fort Bend County. Its Alvin Needville Point Santa Lavaca Hillcrest Fe Galveston tertiary market area (within a 20-mile radius) includes virtually La Marque Vista Wharton Bonney Liverpool all of Fort Bend County as well as Katy (which is divided Hitchcock Tiki Wharton Island ¨¦§45 between Fort Bend, Harris, and Waller Counties), Brookshire Legend Holiday Danbury Galveston El Campo Lakes Jamaica (in Waller County), Wallace (in Austin County), East Bernard Richmond City Limits Bailey's Angleton Beach Prairie West Brazoria Fort Bend County Columbia (in Wharton County), and a large portion of southwest Harris Lake Jackson MSA Richwood

County which includes Bellaire, Piney Point Village, Bunker Hill Brazoria Texas Counties Sweeny Ganado US Clute Village, and Hedwig Village. (see Fig. 1) Surfside Oyster Bay City Jones Beach Edna TPWD Parks Creek Creek Freeport 0 5 10 20 30 40 JacksonState Highway Miles Quintana Interstate N

Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, Rivers La Ward

Victoria Figure 1: Regional Context Map - Richmond,Matagorda TX Source: Fort Bend Chamber 8 Palacios Port Point Lavaca Comfort

¤£87

Calhoun The Auia first encountered Spaniards in 1528, when they cared resources in the lands north of the Rio Grande. An expedition History for the survivors of Cabeza de Vaca’s shipwreck at Galveston beginning in February 1540, led by Francisco Vazquez de Island, and again in 1697, when they were discovered by Alonso Coronado was sent to investigate the possibility of mineral

Auia / Karankawa Indians Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Álvarez de Pineda who was exploring the Gulf Coast. During resources in a wide region of the future southwestern United Before the Europeans arrived, the area along the coast the 18th century, many of the Auia were working and living as States, including the . The expedition found between and Corpus Christi was inhabited by Christian converts at the Spanish missions of La Bahia and nothing they deemed worthwhile or extractable in these areas the Karankawa, a tribal group of Indians with a common dialect Rosario de los Cujanes, which proved difficult for the Spanish. of Texas. Thus the colonial government all but ignored the lands and culture. Their name for themselves was Auia. They were They had better luck with the Indians at Nostra Señora del north of the Rio Grande. nomadic, moving with the seasons between the mainland and Refugio in 1791, but repeated Comanche attacks desecrated the barrier islands, fishing and hunting, their diet supplemented the population, and the survivors chose not to stay. This neglect was all before the 1684 expedition of French by plants and nuts. They lived in wickiups, which could be built explorer Robert Cavelier de La Salle. The expedition, intended easily from available saplings, skins, and thatch, arranged in Three later, Stephen F. Austin’s settlers had frequent to establish a colony at the mouth of the , ended campsites. run-ins with the Auia. When the Indians sided with in up in what would later be known as in Texas. the Texas War of Independence, many Auia warriors, as well The settlement failed, but word of the incursion led to further as their chief, were killed. Austin himself believed that the only Spanish exploration of Texas regions (by way of hunting for La solution was extermination of the tribe, who were forced to Salle) and colonization of Texas (by missions) along the “King’s seek refuge in La Bahia again. They virtually disappeared by Highway” (el Camino Real) from the Rio Grande into . 1858, a result of repeated battles, loss of living spaces, and Part of the rationale for these eastern missions was the French exposure to European diseases. claim on the portion of the territory that extended east of the Sabine River, in what later became the state of Europeans Louisiana. When Spain gained control of these areas in 1762, this rationale was lost and the missions abandoned for areas The history of Richmond was birthed in the imperial ambitions south of San Antonio. of two European nations: Spain and France. In 1519, less than 30 years after Christopher Columbus’s voyage, Hernán Cortés A second factor more than likely also caused the Spanish to began his campaign against the Aztec empire, and a year abandon the missions and territory north of the Camino Real: later, Mexico was part of the Spanish Empire. The disastrous the incursions, beginning in the mid-eighteenth century, of 1528 Narvaez expedition that began in ultimately Comanches into the area. The Spanish were eventually caught resulted in four survivors entering the lands that would later up in on-going violence between native Apaches and invading be incorporated as Texas. An account of these lands and its Comanches. A mission that had been set up along the San Saba inhabitants by one of these survivors, Alvar Nunez Cabeza River northwest of San Antonio was completely decimated Figure 2: Karankawa Fishing Camp Source: Painting by Frank Weir de Vaca, discouraged colonial Spanish leaders from investing 9 by the Comanches in March 1758. Despite the overwhelming the Mexican Revolution constituted more of a series of revolts in late 1821, but the crew lost their way en route, and ended amount of territory Spain soon acquired from France, the than a single sustained war. Nevertheless, the revolution up at the mouth of the Brazos River, instead of the Colorado. colonial government was powerless to stop the incursions of encompassed three groups: those who remained loyal to the The crew, apparently led by William W. Little and Joseph Polley, the Comanches into Spanish-occupied areas of Texas, and even Spanish government; those who demanded independence, sailed further up the Brazos and established a beachhead, paid tribute to the Comanches. but not social revolution; and those who demanded Mexican including a stockade at a bend in the river, that they called Fort independence along with social restructuring. Settlement, later renamed Fort Bend. Spain controlled the vast Louisiana Territory they had acquired in 1763 for less than forty years. Two treaties, the Treaty of Anglos The original settlers, or the “” as they were San Ildefonso (concluded October 1, 1800) and the Treaty of known, were issued land grants by Stephen F. Austin and began It was into this unrest that Moses Austin stepped in the last Madrid (concluded March 21, 1801), ceded control of the area building homes and establishing ranches, farms, and plantations, weeks of 1820, hoping to legally bring settlers to a peripheral back to France. Just two years later, France (under Napoleon) shipping livestock and crops to . Immigration region of the Spanish empire. Despite an initial setback, Austin sold this territory to the for $15 million. Once to the area (and to Texas in general) steadily continued. But was eventually able to convince the Spanish Governor of Texas, again, the Spanish empire in was confronted tensions began to arise between Anglo colonists and the new Antonio Martinez, to accept his petition to bring 300 families with expanding American territory on two fronts: the northern Mexican government whose authority (and taxes) they lived to Texas, with the stipulation that these families would accept Texas frontier and Florida. This time, though, colonial Spanish under, eventually leading Mexico to ban immigration over the and protect the Spanish government. The petition quickly authorities no longer had the expansive Louisiana territory entreaties of Austin. An offer by the United States to purchase worked its way through the bureaucracy and was accepted in to buffer their holdings in Mexico. Despite Spanish efforts to Texas was also ignored. Despite these tensions, agricultural February 1821, as part of a program by the Spanish crown to develop the Texas region as a buffer against the Comanches and life at Fort Settlement continued. A major test of the settlers’ stimulate immigration to the Texas region. Austin’s plans for his other unwanted intruders, no success was had and the Texas resolve occurred in 1833, when a flood and cholera outbreak settlement were short-lived, as he died in June of that year, but frontier remained a point of anxiety for colonial authorities. devastated their lives, property, and crops. Despite these blows, his hopes and plans were picked up by his eldest son, Stephen the settlers were determined to build a community, and in Fuller Austin. The weakness of the Spanish state continued through an 1834, Dr. P. W. Rose established the first public school in the economic and fiscal crisis that forced the Spanish crown to area, housed in a log cabin. Stephen F. Austin set about finding families immediately. By July seize Church assets in 1804. This decree caused further 1821, he was scouting areas for settlement, specifically the economic distress in Mexico, which in turn led to political By 1836, tensions between the Anglo colonists and the swath of land between the Colorado and Brazos Rivers. During tensions between the core and periphery of the empire. The Mexican government had reached a breaking point. When the this expedition, in August, the Mexican Revolution ended with invasion of Spain and the forced abdication of King Ferdinand Texans established their own government, Mexico responded Mexico declaring itself an independent nation. Upon returning VII in 1808 by French forces under Napoleon set off waves of with force, leading to the Texas War of Independence. Fort to Louisiana, Austin purchased a boat, the Lively, to transport political unrest and violence throughout Mexico. This violence Settlement was caught up in the war, when on April 1, 1836, fourteen hand-picked volunteers to Texas in order to establish

Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, was one factor that ultimately led to the beginning of the it was abandoned ahead of the advancing Mexican Army led a colony. The plan was for the Lively and its crew to meet Austin Mexican Revolution on September 16, 1810. Despite its name, along the Colorado River. The ship set off from New Orleans 10 by General Santa Anna. This flight eventually became known as Historical Park. These and other farms helped make Richmond movement of people and mail. The dual plantation system, the . The exile did not last long, as three weeks a distinguished port on the Brazos, which also expedited the which combined farming and ranching provided more stability later, Santa Anna and the Mexican Army were defeated at San Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Jacinto. The Republic of Texas, and its independence, had been established, but the beginnings of the and farms were decimated.

Texians The town was formally established as Richmond (there is some debate as to the source of the name, whether it was Richmond, England or ) by Robert Eden Hardy and William Lusk in 1837. Eden had served with Erastus “Deaf” Smith on General ’s staff and was also a friend of Mirabeau B. Lamar, second President of the Republic of Texas, who later retired to his plantation in Richmond. The town was formally incorporated as a city by the Republic of Texas, and in 1837 named the county seat of Fort Bend County. The map in Fig. 5 shows Fort Bend County and its landowners in 1839. That same year saw the first newspaper Richmond( Telescope and Texas Literary Register) and the first church (Methodist Episcopal Church) established in the City of Richmond.

The two decades before brought increasing prosperity for Richmond and its inhabitants, including a number of successful plantations. These included Foster Plantation, northwest of Richmond; Harlem Plantation, which in 1886 became the Texas’s first state farm and later the Jester Prison Unit; Hunter Plantation; Pecan Grove Plantation; Long Plantation, established in 1837 by Jane Wilkerson Long, and Jones Plantation. The Jones House was known as Old Prairie

Home by the 1850s, and the site is now the George Ranch Figure 3: Long - Smith Cottage, moved to Fort Bend Museum in 1987 Source: CURPR 11 during economic fluctuations, and produced a large number of black professional cowboys who competed in rodeos. National Hall of Famer Willie Thomas, champion bull rider, bareback rider and all-round Cowboy from 1953-1969, was part of this legacy. His family moved to Richmond to pick at the George Ranch, and young Willie worked with the livestock.

Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, Figure 4: Bill of Sale to E. Bailey, signed by Robert Eden Handy and William Lusk, dated April 7, 1838 Figure 5: Plat Map of Fort Bend County. The economic base of Fort Bend County was threefold: these cotton and sugar plantations sur- Source: Courtesy the Fort Bend Museum Association, Richmond, Texas rounding Richmond, as well as cattle ranches. Source: Vertical File, George Memorial Library 12

Scanned by CamScanner Americans her husband Samuel D. Calder. Originally a “dog-trot” house, Congress in 1865, to help former slaves and poor whites to the open central hallway was enclosed and a back porch added. secure food, land, education, and fair employment in the South. After the annexation of Texas in 1845 by the United States, They opened an office in Richmond in 1866, and a year later the population of the state grew as more settlers arrived, Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Richmond’s era of peaceful prosperity ended with the onset the federal government stationed a company of federal troops and Richmond was no exception. By 1850, there were three of the . While the major battlefields of in the city. The Bureau had limited success due to a shortage schools and a burgeoning downtown commercial district, which the conflict were located in theaters far removed from the of funds, federal apathy, and the resentment of Southerners included numerous stores, two hotels, a cotton warehouse plantations and stores of the town, the impact of the war to Northern occupation. The Bureau closed in 1872, the and cotton oil seed plant, the two-story brick courthouse, on the Richmond community was great. Passage of the 13th, Richmond office in 1869. and Masonic Hall. Construction of the , Brazos 14th, and 15th Amendments ending slavery and guaranteeing and Colorado (BBB&C) Railway, which was among the first to suffrage and equal rights of citizenship to black men, resulted Reconstruction was also a period of economic turmoil in operate west of the , helped spur growth. By in a restructuring of the economy, politics, and society. Former Richmond. Property values plummeted, banks failed, and 1860, Richmond had become an important stop for passenger slaves became sharecroppers and paid rent. Many left the area political unrest reigned. Despite the tumult in the business and freight traffic as the town was now linked by rail to and started farms, businesses, independent “freedom colonies,” sector, at least one major business was able to survive and Houston. Industrial development included cotton gins, mills, and cities on their own, including nearby Kendleton, on the thrive: Wessendorff Lumber Company, founded by Anton and sugar cane refineries. The Lamar-Calder House (c.1860) site of a former plantation. The original double-pen Henry G. Wessendorff in 1867. The company eventually passed to T. is typical of the large houses of this period (see Figure 6) and Annie B. Green House (ca 1870) was moved to Kendleton B. Wessendorff, who from 1909 to 1924 was the mayor of and is one of the oldest houses in Richmond and the only from Richmond, and is a good example of the African-American Richmond (and whose Victorian house on 11th Street was a historic building left on what used to be the Lamar Plantation. settlement house built by freed slaves, and added on to over local landmark before it was razed in 1961). (see Figure 7) Mirabeau and Henrietta’s daughter Loretto lived there with the years. Blacks outnumbered whites in Fort Bend County before the war and after the war outnumbered them in votes. A coalition made up of black and white Republicans maintained one of the few successful Southern biracial governments, and ruled the County for two decades, well beyond the recognized end to Reconstruction. They routinely elected African- Americans to prominent positions, including former slave Walter Moses Burton, elected sheriff in 1869 and to the in 1873. At the same time these Republican successes had a polarizing effect on political partisanship and associations.

The U. S. Bureau of Refugees, Freedmen and Abandoned Lands, Figure 6: The c. 1860 Greek Revival Lamar-Calder House commonly called the Freedmen’s Bureau, was established by Figure 7: Victorian T.B. Wessendorff House Source: CURPR Source: Courtesy the Fort Bend Museum Association, Richmond, Texas 13 Economic recovery eventually took hold, but the economic with her preacher-lawyer-journalist husband David. They came to a head in a series of political confrontations and landscape had changed from that of the original settlers: tenant left town for Kansas in 1889, after he was assaulted for an murders, ending in a street battle in front of the courthouse. farming, convict farming, and the sugar industry all rose to anti-Jaybird editorial. She took up the hatchet to champion This marked the end of Fort Bend County’s unique integrated prominence in the last decades of the 19th century. Commerce Prohibition, while their daughter stayed in Richmond with her government, a partnership that was little seen throughout the also revived in the 1880s, spurred by the new agriculture and husband A. D. McNabb (see Figure 8). rest of the former Confederacy. a growing population. Thriving businesses included J. H. P. Davis Bank (corner of Morton and 3rd Streets, torn down in the The reinvigorated Victorian economy also spurred the building On August 16, 1889, a gunfight broke out at the county 1950s), which also housed the city’s first telephone exchange; J. of a new courthouse, six schools and four churches. Notable courthouse (site of the present city hall) in which several E. Dyer Store (206 Morton Street); Jones and Hinson Grocery houses from this period include the Pearson-Winston House people were killed, including the sheriff and a young black (208 Morton Street); McNabb and Varga Saddlery Shop; and (1869); the eclectic Isaac McFarlane House (1882, Thomas child caught in the crossfire. Governor Lawrence Sullivan Real F. Ransom Groceries and Grain. A number of hotels were Culshaw), which is the home of the Fort Bend Museum Ross declared martial law in the County, and mediated a established downtown near the depot, including the National Association; and the John M. and Lottie D. Moore House settlement that reorganized the county government, removing Hotel at Morton and 4th Street, operated by Carrie Nation (1883 Thomas Culshaw; remodeled 1905 Charles H. Page and all Woodpecker officials and replacing them with Jaybirds. Brother), at the Fort Bend Museum. The Moore family was The Jaybirds established the Jaybird Democratic Association, prominent in local politics for over one hundred years. John, effectively disenfranchising African-American voters through Sr. served in the beginning in 1896, and the the “white primary” which lasted 65 years, from 1889 until U. S. Congress from 1905-1913; John, Jr., who inherited the 1953, when it was declared unconstitutional. house, was elected county judge for two terms and Mayor of Richmond for two terms. His son Hilmar Moore was Mayor was 5 years old and living in Richmond the day of Richmond from 1949-2012, having served thirty terms. The of the Jaybird-Woodpecker War. After attending a segregated original asymmetrical Italianate house was remodeled into the school in Richmond and Guadalupe College in Seguin, she symmetrical Neoclassical house, which dominates the block. returned home and worked as a seamstress. In the 1920s, she was a cofounder of the Fort Bend Fraternal Undertaking The political unrest in Richmond and Fort Bend County had Company in Richmond; she bought a house and joined the eased but not been eliminated in the years following the NAACP. In 1950 Fleming joined with Kendleton farmer and Civil War and Reconstruction, culminating in the Jaybird- fellow civil rights activist Willie Melton to finance a lawsuit so Woodpecker War, a feud between the Democratic factions African-Americans could vote in the Fort Bend primary. After Figure 8: McNabb House Source: CURPR in Fort Bend County. The “Jaybirds” (also called “the White many legal setbacks, the Supreme Court voted 8-1 in their Phillip Vogel built this central-passage house in the 1850s. It is a simplified version Man’s Union”) wanted to oust the “Woodpeckers,” a coalition favor in 1953 in the case of Terry v. Adams, declaring the White of the contemporary Greek Revival style. A. D. McNabb, co-owner McNabb and Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, Varga Saddlery, and his wife Charlien Gloyd (daughter of Carrie Nation) bought of former slaves and whites, some of whom had been Primary unconstitutional. Arizona cast her first vote at the the house in 1887. It was moved from 202 Jackson to Decker Park in 1972 by the Reconstruction Republicans. During the 1888 election, things age of 69, and is the namesake of Fleming Elementary School, Fort Bend Museum. 14 still maintaining a commercial district near the railroad. These commercial enterprises were aided by the Richmond Electric Company, which was established by the Richmond Cotton Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Company sometime in the early 1900s. Residents of the city also benefited by the electric company and other public amenities such as a public swimming pool, paved sidewalks, the Fort Bend County Jail (see Figure 12), and the first hospital in Fort Bend County: Physicians and Surgeons Hospital. In 1908, the fourth County Courthouse was built in a cruciform Classical Revival style, designed by C. H. Page and Brothers of

Figure 9: T.B. Wessendorf Lumber Co., ca. 1895 Figure 11: Interior of Wessendorf Lumber Co. Source: Courtesy the Fort Bend Museum Association, Richmond, Texas Source: Courtesy the Fort Bend Museum Association , Richmond, Texas established in Fort Bend Independent School District in 1994. For the next thirty years (1890-1920), Richmond remained largely a rural town, processing cotton, corn, livestock, and other agricultural products from the surrounding area, while

Figure 13: 1908 Fort Bend County Courthouse Source: Courtesy the Fort Bend Museum Association , Richmond, Texas

The three-story Richardsonian Romanesque county jail (pictured left) was built in 1896-97 by the Diebold Safe and Lock Company, who built many jails throughout Texas. It housed the jailor’s family on the first floor. The striking use of red brick and white terra cotta and limestone symbolized the gravitas and permanence of public buildings in that era. An adaptive re-use of the building, nearly a century later, restored the original building for use as a museum and added the Police Figure 10: Drugstore at 3rd and Morton, ca. 1890 Department at the rear. Source: Courtesy the Fort Bend Museum Association, Richmond, Texas Figure 12: Fort Bend County Jail Source: CURPR 15 Austin, who had remodeled the Moore House a block away. It Two important churches were built in the early 20th century, continuing Methodist congregation in Richmond (see Figure is often described as “Texas Renaissance,” inspired by Palladio, that remain landmarks in the evolution of the city. The Oak 15). They began meeting in 1839; after the Civil War, the African- but built in a tawny brick and cast stone. The crossing of the Hill Baptist Church, organized in 1915, by former members American members separated to form their own congregation. two axes is marked by a cupola and topped by a statue of of the Pleasant Green Baptist Church built a new structure The distinctive red brick Gothic Revival building was placed on Lady Justice. Both the jail and the new courthouse show how on Morton. The Methodist Episcopal Church of Richmond the National Register of Historic Places in 2014. sophisticated the city’s architecture had become by the turn of [St John’s United Methodist Church] was built in the heart the century. of downtown in 1922 by Carl N. Nelson, and is the oldest The advent of oil and mineral exploration and production in the 1920s allowed the Richmond area’s economy to diversify beyond agriculture and ranching. The city government made many infrastructure improvements in the 1930s and 1940s. However, the city and the county remained rural, both economically and culturally.

The 1940s once again brought the effects of war, if not the battles themselves, to Richmond and Fort Bend County. American involvement in World War II caused a major labor shortage in the area, with many men drawn into military service away from home. The use of 250 German prisoners of war, housed at the County Fairgrounds, to harvest crops, work ranches, and build needed infrastructure helped to ease the problem; however, it was not until the process of that began in the late 1940s and early 1950s took hold in the county that the economy truly became reinvigorated. Efforts to develop Richmond and serve its population were also undertaken by Albert P. and Mamie George, inheritors of the George Ranch. In the mid-1940s, the couple formed the George Foundation, which helped to establish Polly Ryon Memorial Hospital (beginning in 1947), parks, scholarships, and the George Memorial Library. Their efforts have also aided the

Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, Fort Bend Museum, helping to preserve the historical legacy

Figure 14: Railroad Street inundated by flood, 1899 Source: Courtesy the Fort Bend Museum Association , Richmond, Texas 16 Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015

Figure 15: Methodist Church, 1922 Source: Portal to Texas History, University of of the area, including the old George Ranch that became the his father and grandfather held office for several years before George Ranch Historical Park. that. Between 1950 and 1980, the population of Richmond, part of the Houston metropolitan region, grew from 2,000 Richmond’s history is marked by stability, survival, and innovation. to over 9,000. The city survived ups and downs, politically, The cultural and political stability of the city is epitomized by economically, and racially, and adapted to each new crisis, each the contributions of the Moore Family. Hilmar Moore served era marked by innovation, change, and adaptation. as mayor for approximately one-third of the city’s history, and 17 Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond,

18 Background Assessment attracting outside investment, encouraging local small business Richmond SWOT entrepreneurs, and developing available land; (7) a high-quality Introduction school district; and (8) statewide and international recognition. On October 15, 2014, Dr. Richard Tangum, Bert Moyer and Ernest Gerlach from the Center for Urban and Regional Weaknesses Planning Research conducted a strengths, weaknesses, Participants acknowledged that Richmond has some weaknesses opportunities, and threats (SWOT) discussion with over 40 as well. These included: (1) the river, the railroad, and its right- residents and stakeholders of Fort Bend County and the City of-way serve as a barrier between the northern and southern of Richmond. The residents were divided into three subgroups halves of town; (2) a relative lack of both pedestrian and vehicle to facilitate a discussion. Each subgroup then reported to the accessibility in certain locations, as well as safety issues on overall group upon completion of their individual discussions Jackson Street (Alternate US Highway 90); (3) poor condition (Figures 16-19). Below is a summary of their observations. of some roads and sidewalks, and some parts of downtown are not ADA accessible; (4) not enough parking in some areas, due Figure 17: SWOT Session - Richmond, TX in part, to the use of parallel parking rather than angled parking; Source: Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Strengths (5) a shortage of retail businesses (such as restaurants and lodging options, resulting in “income leakage” of consumer The Richmond community highlighted several key strengths of cafés) and a relatively small tax base due to a lack of adequate spending to other cities and counties; (6) relatively short the city: (1) the natural beauty of the Brazos River and the downtown business hours compared to the rest of the city; extensive tree cover in the downtown area; (2) the significant (7) a lack of street lighting in the downtown district, leading to heritage and historical assets of the town, such as the county issues of safety concerns and “family-friendliness”; (8) lack of courthouse, Morton Street, the police station, and Morton new investment in the downtown core; (9) a lack of signage and , which continue to give Richmond a small-town feel; wayfinding for drivers and pedestrians, and poor connectivity (3) the city’s continued role as the county seat and its economic between the downtown district and the rest of the city; (10) health as part of one of the fastest growing areas in the state and and, a lack of a coordinated downtown revitalization strategy the nation; (4) its proximity to Houston and its location along designed to attract builders and developers to the downtown major transport corridors (both railway and highway); (5) a high district. level of community activity, community involvement, and pride in the city and in its historic district, as evidenced by groups Opportunities such as the Richmond Historical Association, the Richmond Community members also identified several potential economic Historical Commission, the Fort Bend County Museum, the

Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, opportunities including: (1) the possibility for marketing the George Foundation, the Wessendorff Foundation, and the Figure 16: SWOT Session - Richmond, TX city as a destination for historical tourism involving local places Central Fort Bend Chamber Alliance; (6) a high potential for Source: Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 20 (6) potential to improve the technical infrastructure downtown public infrastructure and city services; (3) unplanned growth with wi-fi (to draw a steady/loyal customer base); (7) effectively and development due to lack of city ordinance alignment with marketing the city and the county on websites and with state the comprehensive plan; (4) the potential for increased crime Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 and regional visitor’s centers; (8) a potential trolley route rates; (5) a potential lack of community involvement in the linking the major historical assets of the downtown district; (9) development process, resulting in possible loss of downtown the potential for a home rule charter, for a diverse and open- historical assets; (6) a potential lack of funding sources for minded city leadership, and for a new comprehensive master revitalizing the historic downtown district; (7) “undercutting” plan to coordinate development efforts with planning and of local businesses, especially those in the downtown district, ; and (10) the potential to attract specialized industries, by non-local “big box” retail companies along U.S. Highway 59 such as those related to health care (the OakBend Medical and elsewhere; (8) the deterioration of downtown building Center, the VA Outpatient Clinic, etc.). stock, if not properly maintained or renovated; (9) potential damage from flooding; and (10) excessive bureaucracy (“red Threats tape”) impeding downtown revitalization efforts. Figure 18: SWOT Session - Richmond, TX Source: Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce Several potential threats were also identified. These included: A summary of the key points made by participants in the (1) competition from surrounding cities (Sugar Land, Rosenberg, such as the George Ranch, walking tours and/or “ghost” tours SWOT session are included in Appendix A of the study. The Fulshear); (2) future population growth overwhelming the of Morton Street and other historic areas; (2) adaptive re-use results of the session were also used to develop this Vision of the historical building stock for bed-and-breakfasts or for Study described later on in this report. mixed-use (retail on 1st floor and apartments on 2nd floor); (3) potential for furthering higher education opportunities, including outreach to universities in the Houston metropolitan area (such as the and ) and expanding the existing programs at the Wharton County Junior College-Fort Bend Technical Center in Richmond (which also offers Texas State Technical College associate degrees and certificate programs); (4) creating a pedestrian-only street (permanent or weekends-only) to host major events such as street fairs, farmers markets, parades, and holiday celebrations, and/or use of the county parking lot on weekends; (5) enhancing outdoor recreation opportunities to the north of the railroad right-of-way, including the public parks and the Brazos River; Figure 19: SWOT Session - Richmond, TX Source: Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce 21 the western city limit, which had the highest counts in 2009 and to 15,912 in 2013; this represents a decline of over one-third Circulation 2010; and Liberty Street (one-way eastbound) at the Brazos (33.8%). No other location had a decrease that significant. An important factor in any downtown area is its connection River Bridge, which had the highest counts in 2011, 2012, and The next largest percentage of decline was at Collins Road to other parts of the city and its ease of access and mobility 2013 (sharing the high count for 2012 with the location along near Jackson Street (Alt US-90), which saw a decrease of about within its central area. A review of Annual Average Daily Alt. US 90 near the eastern city limit). 15.6% over the five-year period. The reason for the decline Traffic (AADT) counts taken by the Texas Department of (which occurred primarily between 2009 and 2010 and then Transportation (TxDOT) in Richmond over the past five years The most notable decline in traffic was for Avenue I/FM 1640 again between 2012 and 2013) should be studied. (2009 through 2013) shows a generally consistent level of near Thompson Road, which dropped from 24,000 in 2009 traffic, though most streets show at least a slight decline. Only Richmond, TX: Annual Average Daily Traffic Counts, 2009-2013 three locations showed an increase: the two along Preston

Street and the one at South 2nd Street and . Jackson St/Alt US 90 near W city limit 30,000 Jackson St/Alt US 90 at S 11th St/Thompson Rd The two busiest locations over the five-year period were both 27,000 26,000 26,000 26,000 located along Alternate US Highway 90: Jackson Street, near Jackson St/Alt US 90 at S 6th St 25,000 Liberty St/Alt US 90 at Brazos River 22,690 Eastbound (one-way) Alt US90 near E city limit

Collins Rd/FM 3155 at Jackson St/Alt US90 20,000 Preston St/FM 3155 near Mellon St

Preston St/FM 3155 near Brazosview Healthcare 15,000 Center S 2nd St/FM 762 at Houston St

Austin St/FM 762 at S 11th St/Thompson Rd

10,000 S 11th St/Thompson Rd at Jackson St/Alt US 90 S 11th St/Thompson Rd at Travis St

Thompson Rd near S city limit 5,000 Avenue I/FM 1640 near Thompson Rd

Avenue I/FM 1640 near B F Terry Blvd/FM 2218

0 B F Terry Blvd/FM 2218 near Avenue I/FM 1640 Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Figure 20: Map of Average Annual Daily Traffic Source: TXDOT Figure 21: Annual Average Daily Traffic Counts Source: TXDOT 22 Sales Tax (Gross Sales and Taxable Sales) Economic Conditions Richmond Annual Sales Tax Revenue Both Richmond and Fort Bend County saw an increase in 2002-2013 ($ millions) As part of the Houston metropolitan area, Richmond and Gross Sales Taxable Sales gross sales from 2002 to 2013, although each experienced a Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Fort Bend County have weathered the economic downturn $500 reversal in the wake of the economic downturn in 2008-2009. $450 of 2008-2010 relatively well compared to other metropolitan Also, while the increase in gross sales was considerable over $400 areas and the United States as a whole. Economic conditions $350 the 12-year period, the amount of taxable sales registered a $300 for Fort Bend County in general, however, have been more much more gradual decrease. In Fort Bend County’s case, the $250 $200 favorable than those found in Richmond. (See Table 1). Millions increase in taxable sales was 99% (from $2.945 billion to $5.853 $150 billion), while in Richmond’s case, the increase was about 41% $100 Table 1: Economic Conditions in Richmond and Fort Bend $50 County, 2012. Source: ACS 2008-2012 5-Year Estimates (from $93.4 billion to $131.2 billion). Also, Fort Bend County $0 proved to be more resilient to the downturn than Richmond. 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 For example, its gross sales recovered in 2010, while Richmond Figure 23: Annual Sales Tax Revenue (Gross and Taxable) in Rich- took an extra year to recover, not reaching the level of 2008 mond, Texas, 2002-2013 Source: TXDOT gross sales until 2011.

Source: ACS 2008-2012 5-Year Estimates Fort Bend County Annual Sales Tax Revenue, 2002- 2013 ($ millions) The comparison between Richmond and Fort Bend County Gross Sales Taxable Sales is made using American Community Survey 5-year estimates $25,000 $22,500 (2008-2012). The median household income in Richmond in $20,000 2012 was only about half the median income for Fort Bend $17,500 County ($43,494 compared to $84,211, or 51.6%). Similarly, $15,000 $12,500 the percentage of households receiving food assistance (SNAP) Millions $10,000 benefits within the 12 months before the survey was three $7,500 $5,000 times as high in Richmond as it was in Fort Bend County (17.7% $2,500 $0 to 5.8%). Despite this disparity, there was much less difference 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 in the unemployment rate. In 2012, Richmond’s was 5.9% while Figure 22: Annual Sales Tax Revenue (Gross and Taxable) in Fort Fort Bend County’s was 5.4%. Nevertheless, there appears to Bend County, Texas, 2002-2013 Source: TXDOT Figure 24: Retail along Morton Street Source: CURPR be a significant economic gap between residents residing in the City of Richmond, and those living in Fort Bend County. 23 100 Year Flood Plain The Brazos River flows west to east in Fort Bend County making a horseshoe shape near the center of Richmond. Here, the river forms a boundary for the downtown area on the city’s east side. The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) flood ways for the Brazos River extends roughly 1000 to 1500 feet from the banks of the river. This area must be kept free of encroachment so that 100 year flood events can take place without increases in flood heights along the flood plain.

The flood plain extends over a substantial portion of low lying areas to the north of Richmond’s downtown center, where flood waters are anticipated to rise to 87 feet during these 100 year floods. The boundary of the flood plain also covers roughly six blocks nearby the City’s center along Preston Street between Second and Ninth Streets. The Fort Bend County Clerk’s office is located only three blocks south of the flood plain.

The City of Richmond has a long history of flooding along the Brazos River. Historical floods in 1913 captured national Legend attention. Major civil engineering projects during the 20th Historic District century dammed the river at several places and reduced flooding Richmond City Limits problems. The Fort Bend Levee Improvement District Number Protected by Levee i 6 levee was built in 1984. This levee protects subdivisions, the Floodway N county jail, and parts of the Downtown District against a 100 100 Year Flood Plain year flood. However, even with such flood control systems 00.15 0.3 0.6 0.9 Miles Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, in place, flooding occurred in 2012 that left seven streets Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, i-cubed, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AEX, Getmapping, Aerogrid, IGN, IGP, swisstopo, and the unpassable in Richmond for several days. GIS User Community Figure 25: 100 year Flood Plain and Flood way - Richmond, Texas Source: CURPR 24 Proposed Trail Network While Richmond’s current trail network is limited, its long- Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 term development gives the city the opportunity to link major destination points and increase connectivity within the City and its Downtown District. Trails also run north-south along Collins Road between George Park and the Mamie George Community Center.

The County’s long-term vision is to connect current public and private trails, and sidewalk systems with major destinations through the creation of new primary and secondary trails. Along with the existing trail on Collins Road, proposed principal trails running north/south would be added along North 10th Street and along Pitts Road. Principal trails running east and west would also be added to connect northeast Richmond to George Park along DRS Drive. They will also connect Lamar Park and the Fort Bend County Justice Center to points east along Baudet Drives to the George Memorial Library, Texas State Technical College, and Lamar High School along Golfview Drive. These trails will then connect Avenue I to Downtown Richmond along Front and Austin Streets. Secondary trail systems running both north/south and east/ west are also planned to link the primary trails together and provide regional connectivity for the trail system as a whole.

These trails when fully developed, will provide additional access points to the Downtown District. They should also make the downtown area more accessible to those living around its periphery. In addition, they will improve the level of connectivity between the downtown area and the key points Figure 26: Proposed Pedestrian Network Concepts Source: City of Richmond Trail Master Plan (Preliminary Draft) of interest close by. 25 Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond,

26 Historic Building Survey in status, conducted further research, took new • keep the Richmond Preservation Database up to Historic Building Survey photographs, and added information; date, reflecting changes in status, eligibility, ownership, In February 2001 Knight & Associates, Inc. prepared “A • developed a resource database called Richmond additions, deletions, renovations, and adding photographs; Comprehensive Preservation Plan for the City of Richmond, Preservation, utilizing FileMaker Pro that can be • use information in the new database to initiate additional Texas” that included a Historic Resources Survey Report and maintained by whatever entity the City of Richmond historical landmarks, markers, and plaques; separate Design Guidelines for Commercial and Residential designates (compatible with Texas Historic Commission • create a walking and/or driving tour available for Buildings in the Richmond Historic Districts. Their overall goal standards using Microsoft Access) intended to be publicly visitors, that maps the history of Richmond, showing its was “to determine a strategy for the identification, evaluation accessible by the Richmond Historical Commission, development over time, and describing future plans in and protection of the historic and cultural resources of Fort Bend County, city libraries, historians, students, the form of a brochure; Richmond” in order to increase awareness and appreciation of volunteers, Chamber of Commerce, visitors, tourists, • consider inclusion of Freeman Town in Historic District; existing resources and to promote the economic development and others; and of the community through utilization of those resources and • has written a new history of Richmond that provides • consider expanding the study area to include sites that heritage tourism programs. Their recommendations included context and uses land use patterns to connect prominent have or about to reach the fifty-year mark for eligibility, revisiting, re-evaluating, and updating the survey periodically, persons, places, and events, with the built environment, including several classic Mid-Century Modern houses in especially within the designated Historic District borders. reflecting current attitudes about preservation research, the Hillcrest neighborhood; interpretation, and development; This UTSA study builds on what Knight & Associates began. It • identified additional properties potentially eligible for Notes: The new database focuses on individual sites and properties and includes: state and national landmark status; relates to the previous version through the use of key numbers. Monuments • suggestions and revitalization plans for downtown • recommended enlarged boundaries for the Historic and plaques have been included as additional structures or features of the Richmond; District; and key site. It is fully searchable by any number of criteria (date, persons, • re-examination of historic resources identified in the • made suggestions as to where the next historic area street, landmark status, photographs). We have provided a User’s Guide previous study; (post-1950) should be explored for historic significance explaining how it works; how to make changes; how to search; and how to • recommendations for extending the historic district and preservation transfer the files into a compatible Microsoft Access file as requested by the boundaries; and Texas Historical Commission. • suggestions for integration of the historic fabric with Recommendations: new development. • extend the boundaries of the Historic District as suggested on the map in Figure 27 To achieve these goals, the Center for Urban and Regional • nominate additional properties eligible for the National Planning Research (CURPR): Register, including the Downtown District and the Fort Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, • re-examined each previously identified site, for changes Bend County Jail

28 LYDIA JEFFERSON

NEWTO 4 TH N JERRY 3RD FIESTA

CENTER MORTON CEMETERY

GEORGE JANE LONG SKINNER CUB

PULTAR

121 Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015

BRANCH MABEL GUPTON

MARY LEONARD 1 GAMMON COMMERCE 2ND

BRAZOS CARVER COLLINS 4TH LETTIE 90A PALOMA

7 MAIDEN 10TH IRVIN FIELDS

SAN JOSE SAN JUAN RUFUS 34 30 31 DAMON PRESTON (FM 3155) ROCKY FALLS 2 33 POWELL 80 22 35 36 32 43 A 3 41 39 42 4 17 18 38 37 19 28 29 40 64 ROCHELLE FERRY PROPOSED 61 63 MELLON 15 26 25 27 56 21 54 62 B 16-B 16-A 53 58 GRAYLESS FLEMING CLARK PRESTON 20 52 55 CALHOUN135 60 51-A 59 C 51 57 50 RIVEREDGE DOUGLAS 13 6TH 70-A 5 70 70-B 9 10 8TH MORTON 70-C 2ND ( 762) EDGEWOOD

77 78 49 69 46 103 KOSLER 48 LIBERTY 5TH 79 105 75 3RD 46-A 47 44 74 75-A 102 COLLINS (FM 3155) 75-C 75-B 45 76 9TH 65 66 99 101 100 4TH BARRETT 67 HOUSTON97 87 71 JACKSON (US 90A HWY) 115 72 98 86 88 MAIN 73 85 7TH TRAVIS 94 95 AUSTIN 92 91 93 FRONT 11TH 83 89 90 110 111 82-A FORT 128 113 UNION 82 113-A 123 106 119 130 AUSTIN (LOOP 762) 118 10TH 131 133 132 EUGENE HEIMANN FANNIN 129 12TH 134

RIVERWOOD WHEATON Legend BURNETT 122 Historic District AUSTIN

NEWELL Proposed Historic District Extension WILLIAMS WAY

Roads TRAVIS 90A Railroad BURNET 126 124 THOMPSONS (FM PROPOSED VICTORIA

WINSTON 125 127 HILLCREST

CALG COU PECAN

L

ARY ND ANE WY 90A) D 762) LEGION RTNEY LONDON Figure 27: Proposed Historic District Extension DUDLEY Source: CURPR H (US H WESTWOO BAYOU OLD RICHMO 29 VANCOUVER Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, i-cubed, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/AirbusFOSTER DS, USDA, USGS, AEX, Getmapping, Aerogrid, IGN, WINNIPEG IGP, swisstopo, and theELM GIS User Community Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond,

30 Options for the Future to enhance this “Quiet Zone”, it is further recommended that the cooperation of nearby cities and the . Recommendations some kind of buffer be established, i.e., trees, berms, etc. to This is also the most costly alternative. It is suggested that the As part of any long-term strategy to redevelop and revitalize the reduce the decibel noise level. These steps should help to bypass could either be constructed as a new line, or it could Downtown District of Richmond it is strongly recommended reduce the traffic backup and noise levels caused by trains be routed along an existing BNSF Railway line that is close that a high priority be given to the following future development moving through the downtown area. Other short-term steps to . Whatever alternative is decided options. such as the use of supplemental security measures, speed upon it will require the City of Richmond, Fort Bend County constraints on trains and perhaps scheduling changes for trains and Union Pacific along with other entities in the metro area Mitigate the Impact of the Railroad on the moving through the City of Richmond would also help. to work closely together to accomplish this. The end result Downtown District would be the removal of a significant barrier that literally Over the longer term the development of a freight bypass line divides the Downtown District. Its removal would also open As noted previously the Union Pacific Railroad has long been to remove the tracks out of the Downtown District would be up other significant investment and development options for an important part of Richmond’s history. At the same time it the most desirable alternative. This would, however, require Richmond’s downtown. also presents something of a challenge to the downtown core of Richmond. Not only does it impede traffic in the downtown area, it also generates a lot of noise as the trains move through the area. To address these concerns it is obvious that steps must be taken to mitigate the impact of this railroad on the downtown area at least for the short-term. Over the longer term efforts should be made to construct a freight bypass line which would take the bulk of the freight train traffic away from the downtown area.

For the short-term it is strongly recommended that steps be taken to construct a grade separation using a viaduct to channel pedestrian and vehicular traffic under the tracks. Several alternatives are suggested in the study. While at least one grade separation is recommended, the City of Richmond may want to consider two or three to facilitate the movement of pedestrians and traffic through the district. In addition, it is recommended that the City of Richmond, in conjunction with Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, Union Pacific, consider the establishment of a Quiet Zone* (QZ), in the downtown area to reduce train noise. In order Figure 28: Proposed Tree Buffer Source: CURPR 32 Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015

Figure 29: Proposed Viaduct Design Source: CURPR 33 Develop the Downtown District as a Destination Marketplace Without a doubt Richmond’s downtown is a valuable economic asset for the entire community. It is also a significant cultural and civic asset for Richmond as a whole. However, its potential both as an economic and as a civic/cultural asset is underutilized at the present time. To address this, it is recommended that the City of Richmond and its stakeholders should take steps to transform its downtown into a destination marketplace to reclaim its role as the heart of the entire community.

The Downtown District already has a built-in source of potential customer and foot-traffic due to the location of several county and municipal offices and local businesses. Visitors and residents from outside the downtown also travel to the area to conduct business, shop and engage in other related activities. The intent here is to transform this area into a more dynamic and interesting marketplace to “capture” and retain these residents, workers and visitors for a much longer time to allow them to shop, use the area’s amenities, and to do business. To accomplish this it is strongly recommended that the City of Richmond, Fort Bend County, business and civic leaders and other stakeholders take steps to remake the district into a more vibrant retail/shopping and cultural/civic event destination, as well as retaining its role as a governmental center. Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond,

Figure 30: Proposed Downtown District Source: CURPR 34 Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015

6. 5.

Downtown4. Image

2.

1.

3.

Proposed Recommendations 1. Proposed Richmond Landing and Amphitheater 2. Proposed Main Street Plaza 3. Proposed Hotel and Resort 4. Proposed Museum Block 5. Proposed Boutique Hotel 6. Proposed Botanical Garden N

Figure 31: Birds Eye View of Richmond with Proposed Improvements Source: CURPR 35 Develop Richmond Plaza and Amphitheater At the present time there is no central public space in the Downtown District such as a square or plaza where residents and visitors can gather for special events. The proposed Richmond Plaza and Amphitheater seeks to address this need. The area suggested for this plaza includes that portion of the Downtown District located east of 2nd Street, south of the Union Pacific railroad bridge and north of the Jackson Street Bridge along the west bank of the Brazos River. The amphitheater, which could be used for outside performances and events, is designed to utilize the slope of the riverbank along the Brazos River.

The intent of this proposed project is to provide a large pedestrian-oriented area in the Downtown District that could be used as a central gathering place for cultural events and celebrations. Possibilities include music festivals, holiday celebrations (such as Christmas tree lightings), historical commemorations, weekly or monthly market days, and start/ finish lines for walking, running, or biking events. The plaza would also enhance the shopping experience of those visiting the downtown area by providing an anchor for a larger pedestrian oriented area which could be marked with special paving for visual effect, and closed off during special occasions using removable bollards. Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond,

Figure 32: Proposed Richmond Plaza and Amphitheater Source: CURPR 36 Develop A New Richmond Landing The Brazos River is both an important geographical feature

and a historical part of the Downtown District. To take full Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 advantage of this river, and the area on both sides of the river it is proposed that the City of Richmond consider the possibility of using tour boats that would navigate upstream and downstream along the Brazos River. The dock – Richmond Landing – would be located close to the proposed amphitheater. Here, passengers would be able to access tour boats that would be able to navigate the river. Over the longer term, the City of Richmond and Fort Bend County may want to consider improving the river frontage by incorporating new walkways, trails, natural areas and flood protection zones that would add to the Downtown District’s ambience. It would also serve as an additional attraction to bring local residents and visitors to the downtown area.

The portion of the Brazos River downstream from Stephen F. Austin State Park (in Austin County) is part of the larger Columbia Bottomlands ecoregion, which encompasses the lower Brazos, with extensive floodplain, low-lying areas, and wetlands. The Columbia Bottomlands ecoregion provides an important waypoint destination along the migratory routes of many neo-tropical bird species. Millions of birds representing hundreds of different species pass through the area each year.

Figure 33: Proposed New Richmond Landing Source: CURPR 37 Develop a Museum District The proposed Museum District seeks to take advantage of Richmond’s historical downtown and adjacent residential areas between Preston Street to the north, Calhoun Street to the south, 2nd Street to the east, and 6th Street to the west. The anchor for the proposed district would be a City Museum. This museum would be located across the street from the new Wessendorff Park. Also included in the proposed district are the historical buildings located near City Hall, the McFarlane House, the County Courthouse and the Fort Bend County Museum. The premise underlying this district is that in order to improve Richmond’s downtown area, it will be important to bring more people into the area. The Museum District would also add another dimension for those visitors and residents who shop there.

The District would also encompass the proposed Lake Richmond and the historic located to the north of the Downtown District. The resulting “Green Belt” will provide an excellent setting for the proposed hotel on the Brazos River and additional retail/commercial assets that could be sited within the Museum District. Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond,

Figure 34: Proposed City Museum Source: CURPR 38 Link with County Transit Services and City Trail Network

A key component of any successful downtown area is the Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 easy movement of people through and within the area. Also important is its connection with other parts of the city and the larger region to bring visitors, shoppers and residents into the district. Both are facilitated by a well planned street network, adequate parking and public transportation. At the present time local bus transportation services in the city seem to be adequate. What is missing is a region-wide connection. There is currently little in the way of a regional transit service that links Richmond’s Downtown District with others in the area. Other important assets are the walking, hiking and biking networks described in the City of Richmond’s Trail Master Plan.

Every effort should be made to ensure that these networks intersect and mesh with the street/pedestrian network in the Downtown District. Another initiative the City of Richmond and the Downtown District may want to consider is the implementation of a trolley system to move people from one location to another within the district. This would enable shoppers, visitors and those who work in the district to park outside the Downtown District. It would also allow local residents and others to move freely within the district and through the larger community. This would improve mobility and access to the Downtown District.

Figure 35: Proposed Trolley Source: CURPR 39 Develop New Lodging Options At the present time there are no hotel or other lodging accommodations in Richmond’s historic Downtown District. If the City of Richmond wants to enhance its downtown area serious thought should be given to the development of additional lodging options in the district. These options could include the renovation of several existing buildings in the district to develop a small, boutique hotel. Another option is to construct a new hotel facility in the Downtown District or close by. This hotel could include a small convention center and additional retail facilities to bolster the district’s downtown shopping potential. Also, given that both the City of Richmond and Fort Bend County have their primary offices in the district, this proposed hotel would provide an added convenience for those visiting Richmond on city/county business. A hotel facility will also increase pedestrian traffic in the downtown area, and draw in additional visitors to explore its historical assets. If located along the Brazos River the proposed hotel/ convention center could also expand the Downtown District’s footprint, open up new land for development, and generate new investment in the area. The key here is to determine whether or not there is a sufficient market for such a hotel.

There is also the potential for other kinds of lodging such as a bed and breakfast or guest houses. Richmond has a wealth of historic homes and other buildings in and around the Downtown District. These facilities would also draw visitors and tourists interested in the historic buildings and distinctive culture found in this area. The resulting increase in pedestrian Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, activity in the Downtown District would also make the area a

more desirable location for small shops and eateries. Figure 36: Proposed New Hotel Source: CURPR 40 Develop a New Botanical Garden/Conservancy Several individuals and organizations in Richmond have

established a community garden in the downtown area just Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 west of the Richmond Police Department located at Preston and North 7th Street. This garden is an important part of what Richmond is all about. It also serves as a major asset for the community, one that is beginning to be duplicated in 2. other communities in Texas and around the nation. As part of a broader strategy to revitalize and redevelop Richmond’s Downtown District, it is recommended that the garden serve as the basis for the development of a larger botanical garden. There are several vacant lots in the immediate area that could be used to build the city’s botanical garden. It could feature plants native in the region and provide educational opportunities for both children and adults. It could also include a nature center, and build on other projects in the area. The premise here, as in the case for the other proposed projects in this section, is 1. to create additional assets to draw people into the Downtown District. The proposed botanical garden will also create new investment options to spur additional development in the Downtown District. It will also build on the proposed plan to develop Lake Richmond close by.

Proposed Recommendations 1. Proposed Botanical Garden 2. Proposed Boutique Hotel N

Figure 37: Proposed Botanical Garden and Boutique Hotel Source: CURPR 41 Initiate a Main Street Program In order to effectively bring together the assets, talents and resources needed to transform Richmond’s historic Downtown District into a bustling shopping, civic and cultural area, it is recommended that the City of Richmond seek a Texas Main Street Program (TMSP) designation. This program is operated through the Community Heritage Development Division of the Texas Historical Commission. The Main Street Program is designed to establish a common vision for a community’s downtown main street; develop and promote a brand for that downtown for marketing purposes; and, establish a coherent design concept for the downtown area. It also brings together the downtown’s historical potential and its economic assets. If the City of Richmond decides to seek this designation it will have to hire a Main Street Director and budget sufficient resources to support the program. It can also apply for additional funding through the Texas Capital Fund.

In order to move forward with the long-term development and revitalization of Richmond’s Downtown District it will also be important to put in place some kind of vision and plan for the area. While this concept plan for Richmond’s Downtown District is a start in the right direction, a more definitive plan will be necessary. Equally important is the need to bring together the community’s assets and talent to make this happen. The Main Street Program has proven to be very effective for numerous communities throughout Texas over the years. It can also work for Richmond. Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond,

Figure 38: Proposed Main Street Improvements Source: CURPR 42 Future Parking In order for the Downtown District to accommodate new

businesses and public spaces, additional parking spaces will Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 be necessary. The proposed new developments would also include additional parking spaces to supplement what the city already has (See Figure 39).

The new parking spaces would be located as follows: the 2 resort hotel would incorporate 141 new parking spaces in two lots; the museum district would include 95 new parking spaces in three lots; the plaza and amphitheater would add 94 new parking spaces in two lots; the botanical garden would include 40 new parking spaces in one lot and the boutique hotel would add 22 new parking spaces in one lot. In addition, two new lots would be created behind the Morton Street shopping area, one behind City Hall with 28 new public parking spaces and one behind the George Foundation building with 23 new public parking spaces. 8

Altogether, this would result in a net addition of 429 parking spaces to the current total of 1,226 parking spaces in the Downtown District. This increases the number of available spaces by over one-third and will make the proposed new developments more feasible in terms of their accessibility to those residents and visitors who prefer to travel by automobile. The proposed circulator bus or trolley (see route in Figure 39) would help alleviate the demand for parking by creating a New Parking (443)

“park once and shop” option while also creating foot traffic Existing Parking (1226) for downtown businesses and increasing the patronage of the Proposed Trolley Route new public facilities such as the Museum District and the plaza.

Figure 39: Proposed and Existing Parking Map Source: CURPR 43 Expand the Downtown Districts Economic If the City of Richmond, and more specifically the Downtown To sum up, if Richmond’s Downtown District is to succeed it Potential District, is to continue to expand its local economy, generate will have to take steps to revitalize its downtown, create new new investment, and create new jobs, it will have to carefully assets, generate new investment, build up its small business The City of Richmond and Fort Bend County have experienced examine its economy, evaluate its strengths and weaknesses, sector, and market itself more effectively. To achieve these aims relatively stable economic conditions over the past several and set the stage for new business growth. A prime area for the City of Richmond will have to mobilize its talent, resources years. Moreover, both the city and the county have weathered the growth should be in the Downtown District given its and assets to create a new focus on its Downtown District. the economic downturn of 2008-2010 well when compared infrastructure, location relative to the larger region, and access The recommendations described previously are designed to to other areas in Texas. Despite this, economic conditions in to potential markets within the City of Richmond, Fort Bend accomplish these ends. Richmond and more specifically in the Downtown District County and the larger region. have proved to be problematic. For example, business growth in the district has just managed to hold its own. While there has been an overall increase in sales tax revenue in Richmond since the height of the recession in 2009/2010, the increase from businesses in the Downtown District has been slightly lower. Nevertheless, the economic potential of Richmond’s downtown remains higher when compared to other parts of the city. Fort Bend County has also seen an overall increase in gross sales since 2010. However, the county’s economic potential is higher than that found in Richmond given its expanded market base within the larger region. There also may be higher income leakage rates in the city due, in part, to the purchase of goods and services by local residents in businesses located outside of the city.

In order to get a better picture of Richmond’s local economy, and the economic potential of the Downtown District, it will be necessary to conduct a broad-based market analysis of the district’s sales and revenue base. The key, of course, is to expand the Downtown District’s economic potential by increasing sales and revenues generated by businesses already Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, located there. Equally important is the need to determine just what kinds of businesses are needed to expand this potential. Figure 40: Proposed Community Plaza and Multi-purpose Hall Source: CURPR 44 Implementation Plan Putting in Place a Strategy with its implementation. Because of this it will be important to Public Sector – City of Richmond/Fort Bend carefully monitor the plan’s implementation to make sure that County While this study outlines a long-term vision for Richmond to it stays on course and remains relevant. The plan’s ultimate Both the City of Richmond and Fort Bend County along with pursue, the next and perhaps most important step is to put success, however, will largely depend on the kinds of leadership their respective agencies and departments will be the two in place a workable course of action or strategy to help the provided by the city and the community at large over the primary public entities involved in this effort. Richmond’s city’s leadership achieve its goals. This section proposes such a course of its implementation. In the end leadership more than planning and economic development departments will take the strategy and describes an overall implementation plan to assist any other factor will drive this effort. lead in redeveloping the Downtown District. They will also the city in redeveloping its downtown area. It also provides provide overall administrative, planning and technical support. a framework to help it accomplish its long-term growth and Implementation Strategies Both will work closely with a Downtown Redevelopment development. To carry out the recommendations and related action items Committee or Task Force. This public/private partnership discussed below it will be important to bring together the will coordinate the overall effort. It will also work with other In discussing any kind of strategy it is important to keep in community’s leadership to address issues of mutual concern committees or working groups the city may designate. As this mind two things. First, the recommendations included in this and to develop an overall implementation strategy to process moves from the early stages of research and planning study are only a start. Second, the process is always ongoing. revitalize Richmond’s Downtown District. Leadership is the toward the construction and development part of the project Planning is a continuous process that constantly builds on key ingredient here. Without it the community of Richmond other public entities will also be drawn into this ongoing past successes and ongoing changes in the environment. The will be -pressed to move forward with this effort. The process. As envisioned in this plan the proposed Downtown first step in this process is to carefully analyze each ofthe key players in this effort should be the City of Richmond and Redevelopment Committee or Task Force will take on the recommendations for action and make adjustments as needed. Fort Bend County. Both, in turn, should draw in local citizens, primary role in carrying out this plan. In effect, this is a reality check. Once this is done it will be business and civic leaders, public officials and others to create important to establish priorities. This will be one of the main a Downtown Redevelopment Committee to spearhead the Private Sector – City of Richmond/Fort Bend tasks for the implementation team. These priorities will always redevelopment/revitalization process. be governed by the availability of resources to carry them out, County and their relationship to other needs the City of Richmond Implementing the Plan – Areas of Responsibility The private sector in Richmond and Fort Bend County has to address. As these priorities are decided on, the next provides the economic base for the local/regional economy. It step is to put together an implementation strategy and a plan In carrying out the proposed plan a blending of public and also generates the critical revenue and investment assets which of action. private sector involvement is necessary. This public/private drives that economy. It is comprised mainly of local and area partnership is crucial because no one entity has all of the businesses that provide the goods and services to the local It is useful to acknowledge at this point that the team or resources and assets needed to implement this kind of plan over population. Equally important is the role of various civic and working group responsible for carrying out the plan must time. Each party will also have a distinct set of responsibilities, cultural groups in the community. These groups should also be

Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, always be aware of and accept the fact that adjustments and as well. These are briefly described on the following pages: involved in the redevelopment/revitalization process. Together changes in that plan are likely to be made as it moves forward they comprise the essential stakeholders who ultimately drive 46 the day-to-day discourse and actions that shape Richmond’s Specific Initiatives effort to reduce the impact of trains crossing through downtown. the Downtown District, plans should be developed to To carry out this plan the City of Richmond and Fort construct one or more grade separations/viaducts to

Bend County should take steps to quickly form a special Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Communities are most successful when they work together to facilitate the movement of pedestrians and traffic under working group, task force or partnership to spearhead the achieve major goals. Successful communities are also proactive. the tracks. This will reduce the need for trains traveling redevelopment/revitalization of Richmond’s Downtown These kinds of communities seek to anticipate change rather though the downtown area to use their horns and District. This committee/partnership will also serve as the than simply react to it. It is also important to note that this whistles to alert pedestrians and vehicles. It will also lead project team for this effort. It will work closely with the redevelopment/revitalization effort will be a long-term effort improve the flow of traffic in the Downtown District. city’s planning and economic development departments to involving years of work. As noted earlier, leadership will be key. Other short-term steps such as the use of supplemental initiate a set of specific projects and/or initiatives based on Fortunately, the City of Richmond has the necessary leadership security measures, speed constraints on trains, and the the recommendations presented in this study. One of its first to move forward with this plan. rescheduling of trains to operate only at certain times tasks after it is organized, is to put in place a detailed plan of the day should be studied and incorporated into the of action with timelines and cost estimates to implement the plan if feasible. This vision study elaborates on many of Implementation Plan – Downtown recommendations put forth in this study. This committee will the proposed action steps outlined in this section. The Redevelopment/Revitalization also be responsible for mobilizing Richmond’s assets, resources key, of course, is the need to devise a strategy and plan of The Implementation Plan described below presents each of the and talent to develop this action plan. As it moves forward the action that will remedy, or at least mitigate some of the recommendations discussed previously and the steps needed to committee will focus in on the following: worst impacts of trains moving through the Downtown carry them out. It also provides information regarding critical District. resources and assets needed for implementation. Additional • It will take steps to develop a comprehensive strategy information describing possible funding and technical resources and plan designed to mitigate the impact of the railroad Over the longer term a bypass line around the to support these initiatives is included in the appendices of this on the Downtown District. At a minimum the City Downtown District is the most desirable alternative. study. As noted, the primary implementing entity for the plan is of Richmond should work closely with Union Pacific This alternative would remove a significant barrier to the the City of Richmond/Fort Bend County working through their and other railroad companies utilizing the train tracks development area and improve its overall quality of life. existing venues. It is also recommended that a Downtown that cut through the Downtown District to initiate This action will, however, require working closely with Redevelopment Committee or Task Force be created and an enforceable “Quiet Zone” to reduce noise levels the railroad companies. It will also require a significant given the overall responsibility for spearheading this effort. As generated by trains passing though the area. While regional realignment involving other communities and it moves forward the City of Richmond, Fort Bend County and “Quiet Zones” do not prohibit the use of train horns and local governments. Nevertheless this alternative is likely its redevelopment committee will also draw in other partners whistle blowing, they allow the conductor to disregard to be the most promising one to make the Downtown and stakeholders to facilitate the implementation process. the mandatory four blast pattern usually required at District of Richmond a viable one. The goal of this effort is to transform Richmond’s existing grade crossings. In addition, steps should be taken to Downtown District into a prosperous, livable and sustainable determine if barriers can be used to provide some kind downtown. of buffer to reduce train noise. Also, as part of the 47 • As part of any long-term strategy to revitalize the District. It would also open up the downtown area to Museum District will help to rebrand Richmond’s Downtown District it will be important to rebrand the the Brazos River. In addition, the amphitheater could downtown as a destination marketplace. There are also downtown area as a destination marketplace. The intent be part of a broader initiative to control flooding in the economic implications. By bringing in more visitors and of this rebranding effort is to transform the Downtown district, reduce erosion along the banks of the Brazos enhancing the community’s drawing power new business, District into a place where people can go to shop, do River, and create a riverfront park in the downtown sales and investment opportunities will be generated. business, engage in civic activities and celebrate. It also area. Richmond Landing, which would be incorporated seeks to integrate the Downtown District’s historical, into the combined plaza/amphitheater project, would To move forward with the development of the Museum civic and economic assets to develop an environment provide a docking facility for tour boats on the Brazos District several key steps need to be taken. First, the that is both interesting and welcoming. There are also River. These projects, plus others described below, will community’s existing historical groups and stakeholders economic implications, as well. The goal here is to serve to establish Richmond’s Downtown District as a need to come together to carefully define the district’s expand the Downtown District’s business sectors by destination, a place to go to shop and enjoy an interesting boundaries. Once this is done the district can be bringing in more people to do shopping, to recreate and and exciting urban environment. It will also open up incorporated and a site for the proposed City Museum to enjoy dining opportunities. additional investment opportunities in the area that will determined. As this is done a more detailed plan can contribute to Richmond’s long-term growth. be developed to build the district, catalog its assets and One way the City of Richmond can approach this establish the City Museum. Equally important is the need redevelopment, revitalization and rebranding is to recruit • A Museum District to provide additional assets to to formulate an effective plan and strategy to market the business, civic and community leaders, private citizens and strengthen Richmond’s downtown area, and broaden district. others who have a stake in transforming the Downtown its reach into the adjacent historical residential District to serve on the Downtown Redevelopment neighborhoods should also be developed. The proposed • Developing a strong transit network in the Downtown Committee. Once this partnership is formed it can district will include existing historical sites, homes, District and throughout the City of Richmond is another proceed to put together a plan to rebrand downtown galleries and museums located in the area or close by. In important strategic initiative described in this study. and increase investment in the area. Several projects addition, it is proposed that a new City Museum centered This initiative involves the City of Richmond, Fort Bend included in this vision study may help to accomplish on the history of Richmond and the surrounding region County and other communities in the county. The goal this. One such proposed initiative is the Richmond Plaza be built and located within the district. By creating this here is to facilitate the movement of people and vehicles and Amphitheater project. This initiative is designed district and museum several additional opportunities within Richmond and throughout the county. A critical to improve the streetscape, and create a plaza in the for the community open up. First, it will improve the part of this initiative are the transportation linkages district to provide a place for shoppers, visitors and downtown area’s drawing power and appearance. within Richmond’s Downtown District and between the others to gather and enjoy the area. The plaza would Second, it will attract more visitors to the Downtown downtown area and other parts of the community. also be a place to celebrate and hold civic functions. The District to not only explore its history, but to shop

Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, proposed amphitheater project will provide an additional and use its restaurants, as well. Third, it will serve as a Several transportation ideas are discussed in this study. venue to broaden the appeal and draw of the Downtown platform to tell Richmond’s story. Finally, the proposed One is centered on the development of a downtown 48 transit node that would serve as a terminal for buses and region. If the Downtown District is to grow and prosper offices to allow access for those visiting Richmond on other vehicles linking downtown with other parts of the these linkages will have to be in place. government business. city and the surrounding region. It is also recommended Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 that a downtown trolley be incorporated into the • The development of a new hotel and other types of In the Vision Study it is proposed that the new hotel with plan. This trolley would move through and serve the lodging for the Downtown District is another important convention and related retail facilities be located along Downtown District. The trolley would also connect the part of an overall plan to improve Richmond’s downtown the Brazos River just outside the current downtown downtown transit node with the city’s area-wide bus area. The first step that should be undertaken is to area. This site would not only take advantage of the system. determine whether or not such a hotel would work in the river, but provide additional incentives to expand the downtown area. In other words, will it be economically Downtown District west of its current boundary. The Equally important for the movement of people within the feasible. To determine this. the City of Richmond should inclusion of convention and retail related facilities will Downtown District is the connection between the city’s conduct an economic base study/market analysis to see also bring in new investment to fuel growth in this transit system and its biking and hiking trail system. That if there is a market for such a facility. The intent here area without compromising the Downtown District’s system currently connects with the downtown area at is to generate additional incentives for visitors to stay current businesses. Over the long-term we would several points. To the extent possible that linkage should and shop in the Downtown District. These visitors will expect that the Downtown District will continue to be expanded. That trail system can also be linked to the include those having business in the area, tourists and grow. By carefully planning this growth and controlling proposed Richmond Landing project discussed earlier. others just stopping over for the night. If a convention its pace of development, the City of Richmond should This would enable the trail system to link up with water center is added the City of Richmond will provide yet see improvements not only in terms of additional sales taxis and the Brazos River adding another dimension another incentive to bring visitors into the Downtown tax revenue, but new job opportunities resulting from an to the Downtown District’s transportation network. District. In addition to determining whether there is expanded tourism industry, new shopping venues, and To facilitate this, efforts need to be made to integrate a market for such a hotel a careful site analysis should more visitors and tourists coming into the downtown the city’s current downtown planning efforts with its be conducted to evaluate several prime locations in the area, as well. transportation plan. An ongoing market analysis and downtown area for the proposed hotel. This is important ridership survey should also be undertaken to determine because the siting of this hotel could also lead to new • Also important for the long-term redevelopment and downtown ridership and mobility requirements. This investment in the downtown area. The proposed hotel revitalization of Richmond’s Downtown District is how will help to ensure that whatever system is put in place it should also be carefully located to take full advantage its available land base is used. The City of Richmond will meet the needs and requirements of the Downtown of other existing and planned assets in the Downtown currently owns several land parcels and properties in District and the larger community. Also important for District. These assets would include the proposed the Downtown District. Some of these properties are the long-term development of the Downtown District Richmond Plaza and Amphitheater, Richmond Landing developed. Others are partially used or vacant. Several are the kinds of transportation connections in place and an upgraded downtown area. Finally, the proposed have buildings that are vacant or underutilized. A listing of linking it with other areas in the county and the larger hotel should be located close to key city and county these parcels and properties, their location and current status is illustrated on the next page of this study (See 49 COMMERCE

LETTIE ST Figure 41). As development takes place in Richmond’s downtown area the use and disposition of these parcels *Property ID - County Appraisal District identification and properties take on added importance. If done well, *Total Value - Value of land and improvements according to Fort Bend County Appraisal District R112781 $14,880 R36458

the disposition of these city owned properties, can MAIDEN LN R112780 $104,430 serve to spur additional development and investment $27,560 R112779 in the downtown area. On the other hand, if careful $533,080

FIELDS R36454 thought is not given to the use of these properties they Property ID - R112794 2ND ST Total Value - $77,180 $30,490 could negatively impact development in the area. In R136038 PRESTON $5,040 evaluating the use and reuse of these properties careful R112754 consideration should also be given as to how they can $6,400 be used to help reshape the Downtown District. The R112795 R112747 $77,180 $1,380 key here is the compatibility of land uses. Land uses R112800 R136039 $27,560 $5,400 R112748 that are not compatible or economically feasible can R112757 N 5TH ST $4,410 R112798 $77,180 damage the fabric of a downtown area. While these $27,560 R212577

properties can be used to improve the downtown area PRESTON ST $23,150 R112640 R112760 CALHOUN $211,680 they can also have a negative impact if not used wisely. $14,880 R130900 R112709 R112639 Consequently, the ultimate disposition and use of these R112761 $47,820 $535,890 $562,630 city owned parcels and properties should be carefully $34,730 evaluated before they are sold to private investors, or R130727 $365,090 retained by the City of Richmond as part of an overall JACKSON ST

plan to redevelop the Downtown District. R112715 US 90A $779,350 MORTON RD 4TH ST 6TH ST LIBERTY ST

• It is also recommended that the City of Richmond 3RD ST consider developing a botanical garden and related R184766 8TH ST $11,410 S 5TH ST facilities within and adjacent to Richmond’s Downtown R112588

S 2ND ST District. This will not only add a new asset to the $592,250

7TH ST

N community it will serve as another draw for visitors and 10TH ST Legend R112587 tourists coming to Richmond. As envisioned in this study 9TH ST $74,250 City_Owned_Property LIBERTY 0 0.0625 0.125 0.1875 0.25 the proposed botanical garden will create a unique, new Rail S 10TH ST Miles Roads Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, environment in the downtown area that would include N walking paths, water features, a sculpture garden and HOUSTON Figure 41: City Owned Properties in the Downtown District Source: CURPR MAIN 50 10TH ST

Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, i-cubed, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AEX, Getmapping, Aerogrid, IGN, IGP, swisstopo, and the GIS User Community a nature center. Not only will it add to the ambiance ensure the timely implementation of the projects. The intent Tax Reinvestment Zone encompassing the designated of Richmond’s Downtown District it will also improve here is to make sure that both the city and the county are Downtown District to raise additional funds to underwrite the its quality of life and serve as a catalyst for additional able to successfully move forward with the implementation of redevelopment/revitalization effort. Additional funding can be Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 development in the downtown area. In addition, it will projects that will have a bearing on the local and area economy sought from various state and federal programs to carry out bring in more visitors and tourists to the Downtown and the quality of life for their residents. specific projects and initiatives. Some of these funding sources District. To move forward with its development the are listed in the appendices of this study. The bottom line, is that Downtown Redevelopment Committee/Task Force Another approach that should be considered for the the City of Richmond is investing in the Downtown District to should incorporate it into a larger development plan for revitalization and redevelopment of the Downtown District of ensure that it continues to be a viable part of the community. the Downtown District, or pursue its development as a Richmond is to apply for a Main Street designation. As noted This investment will also contribute to the development of a stand along project spearheaded by local conservation previously the City of Richmond can apply for this designation stronger local economy. As its economy grows it will generate groups. This kind of project could also be a community- through the Texas Historical Commission. However, if the City more tax revenue to sustain the long-term development of the wide initiative that would involve local businesses of Richmond applies for and receives that designation it would Downtown District. and nonprofits interested in improving Richmond’s have to hire a Main Street Director and budget sufficient funds downtown. to sustain and operate the program. To supplement its funding In redeveloping the Downtown District it is also important the city can also apply for matching funds from the Texas to build on past and current efforts and plans to build a In carrying out these and other projects in Richmond’s Capital Fund. Again the intent of this program like that of the better community. For example, the City of Richmond has Downtown District it will be important to put in place a proposed partnership and the Downtown Redevelopment just completed a master plan for the community. Both the team that can coordinate, sustain and move forward with Team is to coordinate the downtown redevelopment and city and the county have also worked together to formulate these initiatives. The proposed public/private Downtown revitalization effort. The advantage here is that it can be an a comprehensive thoroughfare plan. In addition, Fort Bend Redevelopment Committee or Task Force engaging the public integral part of the city’s administrative structure. Here the County has developed a recreation master plan for the Brazos sector, private sector business leaders and community leaders Main Street director would report to the city’s planning and/ River. This plan outlines a strategy to create a river recreation is one approach the City of Richmond can use. A more formal or economic development department, or other departments corridor. Other local organizations such as the Richmond Downtown Redevelopment Team driven mainly by the City assigned this task. Like the other approaches discussed here it Historical Commission have put in place an historical overlay of Richmond and Fort Bend County is another approach that would have similar reporting procedures to ensure that both district to protect its historical assets. These and other efforts can be used to tackle the redevelopment/revitalization effort. the City of Richmond and/or Fort Bend County as well as already underway or planned need to be taken into account in To ensure that these and other projects stay on course, it is local citizens are kept apprised of progress being made on the any strategy designed to redevelop and revitalize Richmond’s recommended that the City of Richmond and/or Fort Bend redevelopment/revitalization effort. Downtown District. County retain a manager or development director to oversee them. This person would work closely with the partnership To ensure that sufficient funding is available the City of and/or redevelopment team and the community, as a whole to Richmond can tap into sales tax revenue generated through its economic development sales tax. It could also create a 51 Economic Development/Investment Strategies operations and increase their profits. The city can also Department and the Downtown Redevelopment work with and through the Small Business Development Committee should initiate a downtown marketing Equally important for the long-term development and success Center (SBDC) at the University of Houston to provide effort to publicize its assets, attractions, businesses and of Richmond’s Downtown District is the need to expand its technical, training, procurement and marketing assistance. customer base. The City of Richmond and Fort Bend economy, generate new investment, enhance entrepreneurial The intent here is to strengthen existing businesses in County lie in an area that is growing rapidly. It is also an growth, provide additional job opportunities for local residents the downtown area of Richmond and encourage the area that houses a reasonably affluent population that and create a more sustainable growth process to ensure steady growth of new businesses by providing them with the can provide a good market for businesses in Richmond’s development. To achieve these aims it is recommended that support they need to succeed. Downtown District. The intent of this marketing effort the City of Richmond put in place an economic and business is to attract and draw in area residents to shop in development strategy that centers on expanding the Downtown • In addition to working with existing businesses and Richmond’s downtown. This will require a concerted District’s small business sector, brings in new investment to growing new businesses in the downtown area, efforts effort on the part of both the City of Richmond and the support the redevelopment and revitalization of the area, and should be made to actively recruit new businesses for business sector located in the downtown area to initiate takes full advantage of its existing assets and advantages. The Richmond’s Downtown District. This strategy could and sustain a strong marketing campaign to sell the area city and the proposed Downtown Redevelopment Committee/ incorporate special incentives to recruit companies and as a place to shop. Task Force should move forward with this strategy by working businesses not currently located in the Richmond market with existing businesses and organizations in the Downtown area. In addition, new startups should be encouraged to • To encourage growth in the downtown area the City of District to build up their operations, provide for a more locate in the downtown area of Richmond to diversify Richmond, the Economic Development Department and business friendly environment, and create additional investment the market base. To move forward with these initiatives the Downtown Redevelopment Committee may want opportunities in the downtown area. To accomplish these ends the City of Richmond and its Economic Development to put in place a range of incentives designed to attract several initiatives are proposed. These are described below: Department should undertake a comprehensive new business startups to the Downtown District. These economic base study and market analysis to determine incentives should be targeted to recruit selected types • In order to expand the Downtown District’s business the types of businesses that could successfully locate or of businesses to grow the local economy, diversify the sector the City of Richmond, its Economic Development relocate to the Downtown District. In addition, efforts market in the downtown area, bring in new investment Department and the proposed Downtown should be made to help existing and new downtown and improve the downtown area’s appearance and Redevelopment Committee/Task Force, in conjunction businesses to expand their markets. The goal is to make ambiance. These incentives can range from a reduction with the Chamber of Commerce should take steps to Richmond’s downtown a prime location for new and in the property tax for a set period of time, the creation build up the small business sector in the downtown area existing businesses, and to encourage new startups to of a reinvestment zone that would provide the startup by putting in place a small business support network for locate there. with an attractive environment to develop its customer the area. This network would focus in on several things base, or to simply making the downtown more accessible. such as training, technical support and market research

Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, • Working directly with businesses in the Downtown Efforts can also be made to build new facilities in the to help small businesses in the district expand their District, the City of Richmond, its Economic Development 52 downtown area like the proposed hotel, Richmond Plaza the recommendations and strategies included in this Vision and Amphitheater and the Museum District that would Study to determine their merit. This review will then set the support business development and attract new customers stage for creating appropriate guidelines and mechanisms at Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 to the area. Expanding the city’s transportation network both the city and county levels to move forward with their will also contribute the development of a more dynamic implementation. Once these guidelines and mechanisms are in Downtown District. place the process of redeveloping and revitalizing Richmond’s Downtown District can begin. Economic, community and downtown development are closely linked together. The redevelopment and revitalization of a downtown is often viewed as being important for expanding a community’s local economy. The investment made in Richmond’s Downtown District will also have an impact on the entire community. In effect, by investing in its downtown Richmond is also investing in its future. A successful downtown is also important for Richmond’s future growth and well-being. In short, everyone gains from this investment.

Next Steps The initiatives and strategies outlined and presented in this section are designed to improve the sustainability, attractiveness and economic prospects of Richmond’s Downtown District and surrounding area. They are also designed to improve Richmond’s quality of life by adding new amenities and assets that will provide opportunities for local residents and businesses. They will also bring more residents and visitors to Richmond’s downtown area and increase the revenue base of local businesses in the area. In order to move forward with their implementation it will be important to put in place a plan of action that takes full advantage of Richmond’s assets. This plan must also be cost-effective and incorporate realistic goals. The next step in the process is to carefully review 53 “Critical Columbia Bottomlands Habitat.” Gulf Coast Bird Hanson, Eric. “Fort Bend rail plans are taking a different route.” Sources Consulted Observatory. Accessed 8, 2014, http://www. . January 27, 2008. Accessed gcbo.org/default.aspx/MenuItemID/173/MenuGroup/ November 20, 2014, http://www.chron.com/news/ Adams, Denise. “Moore’s Headstone to Get Historic Marker.” Home.htm houston-texas/article/Fort-Bend-rail-plans-are-taking- Fort Bend Herald and Texas Coaster. Friday, May 6, 2005. a-different-route-1767481.php Accessed January 27, 2015, http://www.fbherald.com/ , Clinton and Theresa Jach. Images of America: Richmond. news/article_3e8e77ed-3248-54ce-8c37- Charleston, SC: Arcadia Publishing, 2014. Harrison, Karen Tina. “What Are Boutique Hotels?” About 7067d0c5f653.html Travel. Accessed December 11, 2014, http:// “Federal Railroad Administration’s Train Horn & Quiet Zone luxurytravel.about.com/od/hotelandresorts/tp/What- Brands, H.W. Nation: The Epic Story of the Battle for Rule.” Union Pacific Railroad. Accessed November 18, Are-Boutique-Hotels.htm Texas Independence. New York: Anchor Books, 2004. 2014, http://www.up.com/real_estate/roadxing/ industry/horn_quiet/index.htm Hendrickson, Jr. Kenneth E. “Supporting the Corps.” In The Brazos River Recreation Master Plan. May 28, 2014. Accessed Waters of the Brazos. Waco: Texian Press, 1981. December 8, 2014, http://www.fortbendgreen.org/ Federal Railroad Administration, Office of Safety Analysis. BrazosRiver_RecMasterPlan_forweb.pdf Accessed , 2014, http://safetydata.fra. “Hotel Occupancy Receipts for Quarterly Filers.” Texas dot.gov/OfficeofSafety/publicsite/crossing/ Comptroller of Public Accounts. Accessed November 20, “City Limits, Limited Purpose Annexations, & Extraterritorial XingLocResults.aspx?state=48&countycity=5760&railr 2014, http://aixtcp.cpa.state.tx.us/hotel/hotel_qtr_all_ Jurisdiction” (map). City of Richmond. Last revised oad=&reportinglevel=ALL&radionm=City&street=&xi srch.php November 12-20, 2013. Accessed January 21, 2015, ngtype=3&xingstatus=1&xingpos=1 http://www.ci.richmond.tx.us/images/etj2.jpg Johnson, Byron R. “Can a Faith-Based Prison Reduce “Flood Insurance Rate Map Fort Bend County.” United States Recidivism?” Corrections Today Jan 2012: 60-62. “Columbia Bottomlands.” Houston Wilderness. Accessed Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency December 8, 2014, http://houstonwilderness.org/ Management Agency, April 2, 2014, Panel 235 of 574. Klentzman, LeaAnne. “City of Richmond new park project -bottomlands/ proceeding as planned with city awaiting additional “Gulf Coast Region”. Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts funds.” Fort Bend Star. June 6, 2012. Accessed “Columbia Bottomlands-Brazos River Project.” The Nature (Publications). Accessed November 14, 2014, http:// November 26, 2014, http://www.fortbendstar. Conservancy. Accessed December 8, 2014, http://www. www.cpa.state.tx.us/specialrpt/tif/gulf/demographics. com/2012/06/06/city-of-richmond-new-park-project- nature.org/ourinitiatives/regions/northamerica/ php proceeding-as-planned-with-city-awaiting-additional- unitedstates/texas/placesweprotect/columbia- funds/ bottomlands-brazos-river-project.xml Goldthwaite, Carmen. “Regaining the Vote.” Texas Dames: Sassy and Savvy Women Throughout Lone Star History. Knight & Associates, Inc. “Historic Resources Survey Report “Contact Us” Fort Bend County, Texas Accessed November 18, Charleston: The History Press, 2012. for the City of Richmond.” Feb 2001. 2014,http://www.fortbendcountytx.gov/index. aspx?page=674. Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond,

54 Lovett, Leslie Anne. “The Jaybird-Woodpecker War: com/uploads/cms_upload_retractable_manual_ “Texas Main Street.” Texas Historical Commission. Accessed Reconstruction and Redemption in Fort Bend County, bollards_1378236300.jpg November 24, 2014, http://www.thc.state.tx.us/ Texas, 1869-1889” (Thesis, Rice University). 1994. preserve/projects-and-programs/texas-main-street

“Richmond Trail Master Plan.” City of Richmond, Texas. Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 “Main Street Cities 2014.” Texas Main Street: Texas Historical Accessed November 24, 2014, http://richmondtx.gov/ “Texas Population, 2010 (Historical Race Ethnicity Categories).” Commission. Accessed November 24, 2014, http:// residents/richmond-trail-master-plan Texas Department of State Health Services. Accessed www.thc.state.tx.us/public/upload/NEW-CITIES- November 14, 2014, http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/chs/ 2014-heritage-trails_0.jpg “Quarterly Sales Tax Historical Data”. Texas Comptroller of popdat/ST2010.shtm Public Accounts. Accessed November 20, 2014, https:// “Matthew A Moore (1825-1865).” Find a Grave Memorial. mycpa.cpa.state.tx.us/allocation/HistSales.jsp Texas State Historical Association. Online. Accessed January 27, 2015, http://www.findagrave. Accessed November 17, 2014, http://www.tshaonline. com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=15971487 Smithwick, Noah. Evolution of a State, or, Recollections of Old org/handbook Texas Days. Barker Texas History Center Series. “Model Railroad Crossing Signal and Crossing Gate Control Austin, TX: University of Texas Press, 2010. United States Army Corps of Engineers. “Brazos River Erosion System.” Azatrax. Accessed November 18, 2014, Management Project (BREM) Briefing Paper.” Accessed http://www.azatrax.com/controller.html “Texas Almanac: City Population History from 1850-2000.” December 8, 2014, http://www.usace.army.mil/ Texas State Historical Association. Accessed Portals/2/docs/civilworks/Project%20Planning/ Munsch, Don, “Heavy Downpours noted in Richmond, November 18, 2014, http://www.texasalmanac.com/ wrda/2014/proposals/BrazosRiver_ErosionMgtStudy_ parts of Rosenberg.” Fort Bend Herald, May 14, 2012, sites/default/files/images/CityPopHist%20web.pdf Leave_Behind.pdf last modified November 20, 2014, http://www.fbherald. com/article_99906ee4-9e01-11e1-a3dc- “: Population History of Counties from 1950- United States Census Bureau. American Community Survey, 001a4bcf887a.html. 2010.” Texas State Historical Association. Accessed 2008-2012. American Community Survey 5-Year November 18, 2014, http://www.texasalmanac.com/ Estimates, Tables DP02, DP03, DP04. Generated by National Register Nominations, Fort Bend County. sites/default/files/images/topics/ctypophistweb2010. author using American FactFinder, Accessed November pdf 18, 2014, http://factfinder2.census.gov “On the Trail of Hernán Cortés.” The Economist. December 20, 2014. Texas Department of Transportation. “Transportation Planning United States Census Bureau. Census 2000, Summary File 1, Maps.” Accessed November 26, 2014, http://www. Tables DP-1, P004. Generated by author using “Receding”. Times (1886-1922). December 5, 1913. txdot.gov/inside-txdot/division/transportation- American Fact Finder, Accessed November 18, 2014, Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1 planning/maps/traffic.html http://factfinder2.census.gov 59903814?accountid=7122 Texas Downtown Association. Accessed November 21, 2014, United States Census Bureau, 2010 Census Summary File 1, “Retractable Manual Bollards.” Ameristar Security. Accessed http://texasdowntown.org/ Table DP-1. Generated by author using American Fact November 21, 2014, http://www.ameristarsecurity. Finder, Accessed November 18, 2014, http://factfinder2. census.gov 55 United States Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration. “Highway Traffic Noise Barriers at a Glance.” Updated July 6, 2011. Accessed November 20, 2014, http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/noise/ noise_barriers/design_construction/keepdown.cfm

Upshur, Horace L. Fort Bend County (Map). University of North Texas Libraries, The Portal to Texas History. Austin, TX: Texas General Land Office, 1839. Accessed January 27, 2015, http://texashistory.unt.edu/ ark:/67531/metapth88555/m1/1/?q=Richmond

Wharton, Clarence. Wharton’s History of Fort Bend County. San Antonio, TX: Naylor, 1939. Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond,

56 Appendix A 19. Tree cover (natural assets) 44. Richmond Historical Association 20. Cemetery 45. Richmond Historical Commission

Summary of Community SWOT Session 21. Brazos River 46. Museums Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Richmond’s Downtown District 22. School district 47. Historical Courthouse and pedestrian mall Strengths 23. Local pride 48. George Park Group I 24. Foundations 49. Wessendorff Park 1. Strong historic presence established, 5-10 mile area 25. Small business opportunity 50. Police Station 2. Central location 26. Good downtown core 51. 32 miles ETJ 3. County seat 27. Outside interest in the area 52. Freeway traffic off 59 53. Fastest growing area-county 4. River – nature beauty, attracted to water Group III 5. Major transportation Corridors 28. Historical 6. 50 trains a day 29. Heritage Weaknesses 7. Hwy 36 coalition 30. County seat Group I 8. Downtown economy weak, no traffic generators 31. Brazos River 1. Transportation access to Morton Street traffic flow 9. Morton Street 32. Established downtown groups 2. Narrow street 10. Extensive landscaping of trees 33. Downtown area established 3. Railroad right of way barrier 11. Dedicated population that seeks improvement to the 34. Close to large metro areas 4. River as barrier downtown district 35. Small town feel 5. Small tax base- rising today 12. Effort of planning by city mater plan 36. Historic Landmarks – cemetery 6. Sales tax small Group II 37. Available developable land 7. No hotel/motel taxes 13. People 38. Statewide recognition 8. Location not on traveled way 14. Location relative to Houston 39. International recognition 9. Weather and heat (bugs) 15. Historical assets 40. Community assets 10. Double track railroad 16. County seat 41. Chamber of Commerce 11. Parallel parking 17. Undeveloped land available 42. George Foundation 12. Delivery problems 18. Historical perspective 43. Wessendorff Foundation 13. Lack of developable property 57 14. No major emergency access to north side railroad tracks 38. Limited funds / need more retail 16. Historic tours (market city as historic destination) 39. Barrier of tracks (perception) 17. Potential for family vacation, outdoor recreation Group II 40. No main street program 18. Branding 15. Natural boundaries (RR, River, Hwy) 41. Lack of coordination between groups 19. Attract specialized industries 16. Untapped potential, lack of info for builders, developers 42. Gateway needs work (unattractive) 20. Live/work downtown 17. Accessibility (lack of parking, pedestrian, vehicular) 43. Lacking directional signs to downtown Richmond 21. Improve technical infrastructure (free wifi, city app. for 18. Downtown business hours 44. Taxes too high smart phones) 19. Traffic on Hwy 90 – safety issues 22. Location to higher education 20. Lack of retail Opportunities 23. Potential for growing diversity in city leadership 21. None to little lighting downtown Group I 22. Lack of modern amenities Group III 1. Exploiting our history-George Ranch 23. Development has moved away from city core 24. Home rule charter 2. Developing photo opportunities 24. Railroad 25. Newly adopted comprehensive master plan 3. Bed and breakfast opportunity 25. Road conditions 26. River – big one 4. County parking lot (weekend) 27. Planning and zoning Group III 5. Open space other side tracks 28. Walking tours (ghost)(historic) 26. Bail bonds- tax exempt 6. River recreation 29. Regional inter-local agreement 27. Not many retail businesses 7. Educational opportunities 30. Trolley possibility 28. No tear down of historic structures 8. Blank slate for development 31. New leadership with open minds 29. Not family friendly 9. Limited opportunities for commercial 32. Ft. Bend County Growth 30. Parking 10. Linking the activities 33. Medical Facility Growth 31. Sidewalks Group II 34. Marketing/website 32. Security of visitors (feel of) 11. Coordinate area events 35. Location of Texas State Technical College 33. Lack of inventory of historic aspects of area 12. Heavy corridor traffic 36. Farmers market 34. Train and horns 13. Morton Street 35. Income leakage 14. Create pedestrian only street Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, 36. Not ADA 15. Potential for large scale street events 37. More eating establishments 58 Threats Group III Group I 12. Surrounding cities

1. Population growth 13. New corners changing the look and feel of old town Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 2. Crime possibilities 14. Unplanned growth 3. Demand on city and county services 15. Highway 59 drawing away from downtown area 4. Competition 16. Railroad 17. Damage from flooding • Sugarland 18. Unplanned development • Rosenberg 19. Lack of funding – finding money • Fulshear 20. Lack of action and community involvement 5. River 21. Poorly maintained buildings

• Major erosion problem • Dangerous • Difference in elevation 10 - 12’ • Low Velocity • River Bank Stabilization • Hidden Debris • Feral Hogs, deer, beaver, bald eagles, alligators, birds Group II 6. City ordinances don’t align with planned development 7. Current infrastructure 8. Falling behind neighboring cities, losing momentum 9. Internal red tape 10. Growth 11. Lack of local resident involvement and implementation

59 education programs, and funds distance learning networks facilities, child care facilities and other public facilities. More Appendix B in order to give employees access to adult education information on the program can be found at: http://www. Community Resources programs. Examples of eligible projects include construction rurdev.usda.gov/HAD-CF_Grants.html or renovations, training and technical assistance, and distance adult learning for training and advancement. More information U.S. Department of Housing and Urban U.S. Department of Agriculture-Rural can be obtained by visiting the RBEG Program website: http:// Development (HUD) Development Programs (USDA-RD) www.rurdev.usda.gov/BCP_rbeg.html HUD’s mission is to create strong, sustainable communities Business and Industry Guaranteed Loans (B & I) and ensure everyone has access to an affordable home. They B&I loans are offered to improve the economic and Intermediary Relending Program (IRP) accomplish this through a variety of grants and programs environmental climate in rural communities. Cooperative The purpose of the IRP is to alleviate poverty and increase that offer assistance for a variety of needs including disaster organizations, partnerships, non-profits, public bodies, or economic activity and employment in rural communities. Low- recovery, home-improvement, and housing for the elderly. individuals can apply for a loan provided that the funds are interest loans are provided to community organizations for the used for specific purposes. They can be used to start up or establishment of revolving loan funds. These organizations can HOME Investment Partnerships Program acquire a business if doing so will prevent employment loss then provide loans for activities like construction or repair of This program offers grants to states and local governments and/or create employment opportunity. Funds can also be businesses, purchasing and development of land, or pollution to implement local housing strategies for increasing home used to modernize a business or purchase equipment, land, control and abatement. More information can be found at: ownership and affordable housing opportunities for low- buildings, or easements. Further information can be found on http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/BCP_irp.html income Americans. Funding can be used for the rehabilitation the USDA-RD website: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/BCP_gar. of housing, provide assistance to home buyers and facilitate html Rural Business Opportunity Grants (RBOG) the construction of new housing. Participating jurisdictions These grants are designed to promote sustainable economic must match 25% of HOME funds. More information can Rural Energy for America Program development in rural communities with exceptional needs. be found at: http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/documents/ This program is available to rural small businesses and Funds can be used for strategic planning, feasibility studies, huddoc?id=HUDPrograms2013-12.pdf agricultural producers through local lenders approved by leadership and entrepreneur training, and more. This program the USDA. The loans and grants must be used to purchase is designated for any area not within the boundaries of a city Good Neighbor Next Door renewable energy systems or make energy efficiency that has a population of more than 10,000. More information Law enforcement officers, teachers, firefighters, and EMT’s improvements. More information is available at: http://www. can be found at: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/BCP_RBOG.html are given the opportunity to buy homes in revitalization rurdev.usda.gov/BCP_ReapResEei_Eligibility.html areas at a significant discount. The goal is to make the Community Facilities Grants neighborhoods safer and stronger. More information can Rural Business Enterprise Grants Program (RBEG) This program provides grant funds to develop essential be found at: http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/documents/

Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, The RBEG Program provides grants for the development of community facilities in rural communities and areas up to huddoc?id=HUDPrograms2013-21.pdf rural businesses, provides funding employment rated adult 20,000 in population. Funds may be used to build healthcare 60 Community Development Block Grant Program Community Challenge Planning Grant Program (SCORE) Program. While they do not directly provide grants, (CDBG) These grants are given in partnership with the Department they have several sources of funding listed on their website The CDBG Program is a national program whose goal is to of Transportation and the Environmental Protection Agency at: http://www.sba.gov/content/what-sba-offers-help-small- Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 develop viable communities by providing decent housing, suitable for the development of affordable, economically vital, and businesses-grow living environments and expanding economic opportunities sustainable communities. Funds can be used to modify master principally for those of low to moderate income. Funds can plans, zoning, and building codes to promote development Federal Emergency Management Administration be allocated for several uses including disaster relief, water and the re-use of older buildings with the goal of promoting (FEMA) and sewer infrastructure improvements, and renewable energy sustainability at the neighborhood and community levels. FEMA offers a variety of grants not only for victims of natural pilot programs. More information is can be found through the More information can be obtained at: http://portal.hud.gov/ disasters, but for mitigation activities that avert future damage. Department of Housing and Urban Development website at: hudportal/documents/huddoc?id=HUDPrograms2013-85.pdf They also offer grants to local fire departments for staffing, http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/hudprograms/toc volunteer firefighter retention, and reducing injuries and deaths Other Federal Agencies and Programs among high-risk populations. More information can be found Rural Housing Stability Assistance Program at http://www.fema.gov/grants U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) This program offers competitive grants to private non-profits, The EDA has several programs designed to improve counties, and local governments for re-housing of individuals communities throughout the country. The Public Works Texas Historical Commission Programs placed in emergency or transitional housing, and for improving Program provides funding to revitalize, expand and upgrade Texas Main Street Program the housing situation of low-income families in a geographical infrastructure in distressed communities to draw in new The Texas Main Street program was formed over 30 years ago area. Funds can also be used to help low-income residents keep business and job opportunities to an area. They also provide and is operated through the Texas State Historical Commission. their homes and/or improve their access to affordable housing. planning and economic development strategies to designated The programs goal is to provide technical expertise, resources Additional information is available at: http://portal.hud.gov/ Economic Development Districts, communities and councils of and support to Texas communities to preserve and revitalize hudportal/documents/huddoc?id=HUDPrograms2013-15.pdf government. More programs and information are available at: historic and commercial neighborhood districts. http://www.eda.gov/ Communities can apply annually, and each year up to five cities Self-Help Housing Property Disposition are selected for Texas Main Street designation. Once accepted, This program makes surplus federal properties available to U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) cities pay a nominal annual fee based on population and have state and local governments at less than fair market value The SBA offers a number of financial assistance programs for access to strategic planning reports, design services, resources for the purpose of building self-help housing for low-income small businesses. They also set guidelines for loans through for funding projects, and much more. More information can residents. Residents of the property must make a substantial lenders and community development organizations, help small be obtained by visiting: http://www.thc.state.tx.us/preserve/ contribution of labor towards the construction, rehabilitation, business contractors obtain surety bonds, and provide mentors projects-and-programs/texas-main-street or by contacting the or renovation of the property. More information can be found and counseling through its Service Corps of Retired Executives Texas Main Street State Coordinator at (512)463-6092. (Texas by visiting the HUD website at: http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/ Historical Commission) documents/huddoc?id=HUDPrograms2013-47.pdf 61 Museum Services Certified Local Government Program (CLG) More information is at: http://www.gotexan.org/ForMembers/ The Texas State Historical Commission also helps small history The CLG Program is a partnership for historic preservation GOTEXANPartnerProgram.aspx museums through its Museum Services Program. Staff provides of state, federal, and local government. Local governments free consultations and assistance in a number of areas including work independently to develop and maintain a successful State Office of Rural Health (SORH) museum development, strategic planning, exhibit design, preservation program. To qualify, a city or county must The SORH works with local healthcare providers, county leaders fundraising and volunteer training. Additionally they offer enforce legislation that protects historic properties, establish and state partners to support access to quality healthcare training on various museum topics through workshops and a qualified review commission, maintain a survey and inventory for rural Texans. It also assists healthcare providers through online. More information can be found by visiting: http://www. of historic properties, and provide for public participation in programs that provide information and referrals, medical thc.state.tx.us/preserve/projects-and-programs/museum- the preservation process. More information is available at: licensing, grants, and educational awards. A complete list of services or contact the Museum Services Coordinator at http://www.thc.state.tx.us/preserve/projects-and-programs/ programs can be found by visiting: http://www.texasagriculture. (512)463-6427. certified-local-government gov/GrantsServices/RuralEconomicDevelopment/ StateOfficeofRuralHealth.aspx Cemetery Preservation Texas Department of Agriculture Programs The Historic Texas Cemetery (HTC) designation provided Texas Capital Fund (TCF) Other State Agencies and Programs through the Texas Historic Commission protects these This program allocates funds to incorporated cities and county Texas Education Agency (TEA) cemeteries by recording boundaries in the county records governments that do not meet the standards set by the U.S. The TEA provides grants to schools and school districts to alert current and future owners of land surrounding these Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community throughout Texas for the academic enrichment of students. areas. This designation does not impose any restrictions on Development Block Grant program. Funds can be used for Examples of grants offered are the Algebra Readiness for the private use of land. The site must be designated as an HTC real estate development, infrastructure improvements, and Small and Rural Schools Grant, the Online College and Career before it is eligible for a historical marker. More information is downtown revitalization efforts. The TCF can also help attract Preparation Technical Assistance Grant, and the Public Charter available at: http://www.thc.state.tx.us/preserve/projects-and- new business and grow the local economy. More information can School Start-up Grant. More Information can be found at: programs/cemetery-preservation. be found at: http://www.texasagriculture.gov/GrantsServices/ http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index2.aspx?id=2147487872 RuralEconomicDevelopment/TexasCapitalFund.aspx. Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation (THCP) The THCP Program was established in 1999 to help counties GO TEXAN Rural Community Program Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs restore their historic courthouses. The program provides This program is designed to encourage the growth of rural (TDHCA) partial matching grants and is regularly funded by the Texas communities throughout Texas. It is a membership-based The mission of the TDHCA is to improve the quality of life Legislature. Training and education is also provided to county program that promotes economic activity in rural areas through of all Texans through the development of better communities. staff for future preservation needs. Further information can restaurants, tourism, and special recognition of products They act as an intermediary for federal grant funds for housing

Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, be found at: http://www.thc.state.tx.us/preserve/projects-and- made in Texas. Restaurants as well as items manufactured and community services. They also act as a financial and programs/texas-historic-courthouse-preservation or grown in Texas can receive the special GO TEXAS label. administrative resource that provides essential services and 62 affordable housing to those who qualify and provides resources into pollution reduction, or for replacing old municipal vehicles are offered for limited financial assistance, transportation for first-time home buyers. More information is available at: with newer, more efficient models. The Texas Clean School services, housing assistance, and family and child services. More http://www.tdhca.state.tx.us/index.htm Bus Program provides money to school districts to replace information, grant applications and deadlines can be found at: Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 old school buses with new ones or retrofit them with new http://www.tvc.texas.gov/Apply-For-A-Grant.aspx . Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) technology to reduce the pollution from diesel exhaust. More TXDOT offers a number of grants for infrastructure and information can be found at: http://www.tceq.texas.gov/agency/ Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) accessibility improvements. The Safe Routes to Schools Grant governments_main.html The TCA offers a variety of grants to municipal and county arts is designed to improve the safety of children in grades K-8 agencies to provide services and support in the advancement that walk or bike to school. The routine Airport Maintenance Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board of the cultural arts. Information and deadlines can be found at: Program matches local government grants up to $50,000 (TSSWCB) https://www2.arts.state.tx.us/tcagrant/TXArtsPlan/TAPTOC. for basic improvements like parking lots, fences, or other The TSSWCB offers a matching funds program for soil and water asp similar needs at airport facilities. TXDOT also administers conservation assistance. Through local conservation boards funds from several federal grant programs designed to help they also offer technical and planning assistance to agricultural Economic Development cities with planning and research, rural public transportation, producers to incorporate best management practices on their Type A and B Economic Development Sales Tax and transportation for individuals with disabilities. Further farms and ranches. Additional information can be found at: These voter-approved taxes are used by cities to promote information can be found at: http://www.txdot.gov/government/ http://www.tsswcb.texas.gov/programs/swcdassistance economic development. To date, more than 583 cities in funding.html Texas have collected over $500 million annually in sales tax Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) revenue. (Office of the Attorney General of Texas) There are Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) The TPWD offers 50% matching grant funds to municipalities, key differences between the Type A and Type B sales tax mainly The TWDB offers grants and loans for the planning, design, and counties, and other units of government for the development in the ways cities can adopt a sales tax, use tax revenue, and the construction of water related infrastructure and improvement of parks, nature centers, urban outdoor recreation, and oversight of project expenditures. Not every city can collect programs. They also offer grants to local governments and recreational trails. They also offer 75% matching funds for the Type A sales taxes, but every city in Texas can collect Type B. technical assistance for agricultural water conservation, construction of public boat ramps throughout Texas. Further flood mitigation, and clean drinking water programs. More information on programs and deadlines can be found at: http:// Type A is considered more restrictive and allows more information can be found at: http://www.twdb.state.tx.us/ www.tpwd.state.tx.us/business/grants/trpa/#outdoor traditional types of economic development initiatives that financial/programs/AWCG/index.asp assist manufacturing or industrial activities. It can fund things Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) like buildings, equipment, facilities, distribution centers, and Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) The TVC awards reimbursement grants to local government infrastructure improvements. It can also fund business related The TCEQ offers both competitive and non-competitive agencies and Veterans Service Organizations that provide airports, port facilities, and some airport activities within grants to local governments for a variety of uses. Funds can direct assistance to Texas veterans and their families. Grants 25 miles of an international border. (Office of the Attorney be provided for cleanup or prevention of pollution, research General of Texas) 63 Type B Sales Taxes fund the same projects that Type A can, as well grow economically, attract new industries, and retain existing by landowners to establish a CDD in an effort to promote and as projects considered to be community initiatives. Facilities employers. develop tourism in the county. They are allowed to levy taxes and expenditures for a professional or amateur sports park, for such purposes provided that they do not exceed the 2% entertainment facilities, tourist facilities, and affordable housing Property tax abatement is where incorporated cities, counties, cap on local tax rates. More information can be found at http:// are allowed under Type B funds, but with additional procedural and special districts are permitted to enter into an agreement www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/LG/htm/LG.383.htm requirements. More information is available through the Office with a taxpayer (i.e. a business) that exempts all or part of the of the Attorney General of Texas: https://www.oag.state.tx.us/ increase in property value from taxation over a period of up Public Improvement Districts (PID) AG_Publications/pdfs/econdevhb2013.pdf to ten years. (Texas Comptroller’s Economic Development & PID’s provide a way for cities make necessary public Analysis Division) improvements by allowing them to collect special assessments Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) on property within the city and its extraterritorial jurisdiction. The HOT is imposed on anyone paying for a room or space Tax increment financing can be used by a city or county to A PID can be formed to improve drainage and wastewater in a hotel, motel, or bed and breakfast costing $15 or more publicly finance needed improvements to infrastructure and facilities, construct or improve libraries or off-street parking, per night. It also applies to condominiums, apartments, and buildings within a designated reinvestment zone. (Office of the acquire and install pieces of art, or other similar projects houses that are rented for less than 30 consecutive days. The Texas attorney General) The cost of improvements is financed that improve public safety and economic development. More State of Texas charges 6% of the cost of the room, and local by future tax revenues levied against property in the improved information of PID’s can be found at: http://www.texasahead. city and county taxing authorities are allowed to impose an area. org/tax_programs/pubimprovement/ additional percentage provided it does not go above 15% of the room rate. Funds collected must be used to directly The Texas Economic Development Act also gives school Municipal Management Districts (MMD) enhance and promote tourism. They must also fit into one of districts the ability to create jobs and attract investment. A Also called a downtown management district, a MMD is the nine statutory categories outlined in the tax code. These school district can provide tax credits and an 8-year limitation created within an existing commercial area as a supplement to categories include the funding of a visitor’s center, tourism on appraised value of a property on the school district municipal services in the area. Improvements to infrastructure related advertising, programs that enhance the arts, historical property tax to eligible corporations or limited liability and facilities are paid for by a combination of self-imposed preservation, and others. Additional information can be found companies (LLC). In return, the companies are required to property taxes, impact fees, and special assessments. Many at: http://www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/hotel/index.html use the property for manufacturing, research and development, cities in Texas have used this tool with great success. Additional clean energy generation and other similar uses.(Office of the information can be found by visiting: https://www.oag.state. Property Tax Incentives Attorney General of Texas)More information on property tax tx.us/AG_Publications/pdfs/econdevhb2013.pdf Attracting new businesses and encouraging economic growth incentives can be found by visiting: https://www.oag.state.tx.us/ can be accomplished using the right property tax incentives. AG_Publications/pdfs/econdevhb2013.pdf Neighborhood Empowerment Zones (NEZ) Property tax abatement, tax increment financing, and the Texas A NEZ can be established by a city to promote economic

Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 Downtown Vision A TX - Richmond, Economic Development Act are three ways a municipality can County Development District (CDD) development activities within a designated area. The zone Counties with a population of 400,000 or less can be petitioned must promote the creation of affordable housing; an increase 64 in economic development; an increase in quality of social services; education, and public safety; and, the rehabilitation of affordable housing. The city has certain development powers Richmond, TX - A Downtown Vision and Historic Building Study - 2015 within the zone to draw in economic activity. They may grant waivers for building fees, issue municipal sales tax refunds, offer property tax abatements, and establish baseline performance standards and environmental goals on construction projects. More information can be found at: http://www.statutes.legis. state.tx.us/Docs/LG/htm/LG.378.htm

NAFTA Impact Zones Cities with areas affected by the North American Free Trade Agreement are authorized to establish this zone. The rules are nearly identical to Neighborhood Empowerment zones. Additional information can be found at: http://www.statutes. legis.state.tx.us/Docs/LG/htm/LG.379.htm

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