Conroe Council to Annex 450 Acres

**Conroe Moves to Expand City Limits, Eyeing 450 Acres for “Managed Growth”**

CONROE, TX – As Conroe continues its trajectory as one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas, the City Council is actively pursuing the annexation of two strategic parcels totaling 450 acres, a move officials say is critical for ensuring sustainable and well-planned development. The proposed annexations aim to bring key areas under city jurisdiction, allowing for the extension of municipal services and adherence to Conroe’s building and infrastructure standards.

The larger of the two tracts encompasses approximately 400 acres located on the south side of FM 1488, just west of the BNSF train tracks. The second, smaller parcel is about 50 acres, situated on the east side of I-45, south of League Line Road.

Councilman Harry Hardman articulated the driving philosophy behind these efforts as “managed growth.” “Conroe needs to make sure developments popping up right next to the city aren’t just doing their own thing without the proper city services or decent infrastructure, especially when it comes to things like drainage,” Hardman explained. He stressed the importance of preventing situations where developments just outside city lines might negatively impact Conroe without contributing to city services or adhering to its higher development standards.

The 400-acre tract presents a particularly interesting case, as it borders the established Grand Central Park development. This parcel is owned by an affiliate of Long Lake Ltd., a prominent residential and commercial developer known for numerous communities across the Houston area. Long Lake Ltd. has already signaled plans for a mixed-use development on the site, incorporating residential, commercial, and multi-family components. Notably, the developer has proactively requested Conroe to provide water and sewer services, indicating a collaborative desire to integrate with city infrastructure from the outset. This request appears to be a key catalyst for the proposed annexation, positioning it as a proactive partnership to ensure orderly development.

The annexation process formally began on February 8th, when the City Council discussed the “request for services” for the 400-acre tract. Following this initial discussion, on February 22nd, the council officially approved a “Notice of Intent to Annex” for both tracts. This action is a legally mandated formal step, signaling the city’s intent to incorporate the land into its boundaries.

The next crucial step in the process is a required public hearing, scheduled for **May 9th** at the Conroe City Council chambers. This hearing will provide an opportunity for property owners, residents, and other interested parties to voice their opinions, ask questions, and offer feedback regarding the proposed annexations. City officials encourage public participation to ensure all perspectives are considered.

Following the public hearing, the final vote on whether to officially annex these areas is slated for **May 23rd**. If approved, these 450 acres would then fall under Conroe’s full municipal jurisdiction. This would mean that Conroe’s police, fire, and EMS services would extend to these areas, and all future development would be required to adhere to Conroe’s comprehensive building codes, zoning regulations, and infrastructure standards, including crucial drainage requirements.

For more information on the proposed annexations, including meeting agendas and minutes, residents are encouraged to visit the City of Conroe’s official website or attend the upcoming public hearing.