Improving Property Values and ROI
Westchase District’s Long-Range Plan is the result of a collaborative effort between area property owners, tenants, public agencies and a host of other stakeholders. It envisions how Westchase District can look and operate decades from now. First unveiled in 2006, the Plan is compelling and highly ambitious, but also very achievable, taking into account market forces, owner goals and the regulatory environment.
Developers can leverage the Plan to take advantage of six public-realm concepts, which will increase the value of their property, improve their return on investment, and attract more people to the area.
Development of the Plan’s elements will ensure that Westchase remains the commercial and cultural heart of West Houston for generations to come.
You can download a condensed version of the plan or the complete report.
Funding for the Long Range Plan
Westchase District entered into a 380 Agreement with the City of Houston in 2013, bringing in tens of millions of dollars to the District to fund elements of the Long-Range Plan.
The 380 Agreement, which is named after the chapter number of the Texas Local Government Code, provides Westchase District with funds to construct City-approved infrastructure projects. Under the 380 agreement, two-thirds of the revenue from property tax growth collected in the Westchase 380 Area – a region including most of Westchase District and two sections just outside the District’s boundaries – is available to construct public projects including roads, parks, trails and drainage improvements in the area. The initial 10-year agreement was executed in 2013 and renewed for an additional 10-year term in November of 2023. The agreement with the City has helped stimulate redevelopment of older properties, created new public amenities and significantly improved the quality of life for everyone who lives and works in Westchase District.
The first part of the Long-Range Plan was accomplished during the first 10-year 380 Agreement. We have developed a three-part trail system that connects Westchase District to the Brays Bayou trail system and Art Storey Park south of Bellaire. We have rebuilt Walnut Bend Lane with new underground utilities and above-ground amenities. We have completely transformed the back-of-curb streetscape along Westheimer and have opened Woodchase Park, with Camden Park opening in the Spring of 2025. Read more about the projects accomplished during the first part of the Long-Range Plan here.
This money keeps Westchase District competitive with other Houston-area management districts designated as tax increment reinvestment zones. Economic development is increasingly competitive. Having a solution to funding public infrastructure is critical to securing the long-term commitments of lenders, developers, companies, and residents. Read more about the projects planned under the second phase of the 380 Agreement here.
