Montgomery County approves contested Grand Pkwy plat

Montgomery County Commissioners Court approved the preliminary plat for “The Grand at Grand Parkway,” a significant mixed-use development by Howard Hughes Holdings, on March 26, 2024. This decision, which advances a project facing strong opposition from The Woodlands Township, followed an initial tabling of the proposal on March 12, 2024.

The project involves a 162-acre parcel situated at the northeast corner of Grand Parkway (TX-99) and Woodlands Parkway. Howard Hughes Holdings’ plans for “The Grand at Grand Parkway” include up to 2,000 multi-family residential units and more than 1.5 million square feet of commercial space, encompassing retail, restaurants, and offices.

Despite bordering The Woodlands Township, the development falls under the jurisdiction of Montgomery County, specifically Precinct 2, overseen by Commissioner Charlie Riley. This jurisdictional reality has been a point of contention, as The Woodlands Township lacks direct control over the project and has voiced significant disappointment. Ann Snyder, Chair of The Woodlands Township, has publicly expressed the Township’s concerns.

The Township’s primary worries revolve around the anticipated impact on the existing community. Residents and officials are particularly concerned about exacerbating traffic congestion at the already heavily traveled Grand Parkway/Woodlands Parkway intersection. Additionally, significant drainage issues and the potential for increased flooding are major points of concern, given the area’s history of such problems. The Township contends that the high-density nature of “The Grand at Grand Parkway” fundamentally contradicts the original master plan and the established character of The Woodlands.

In an effort to preserve the land as green space, The Woodlands Township attempted to purchase the 162-acre parcel in February 2023, offering a substantial sum, but Howard Hughes Holdings declined the offer.

Commissioner Charlie Riley, whose precinct encompasses the development site, supported the preliminary plat’s approval. He cited property rights and the potential for new tax revenue as key benefits the development could bring to Montgomery County.

While this preliminary plat approval marks a critical step forward, Howard Hughes representatives, including Patrick Fox, have indicated that actual construction and final development are still “years away.” Nevertheless, the Montgomery County Commissioners Court’s decision signals that the process for this project, despite strong local opposition, is moving ahead.