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TxDave

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Everything posted by TxDave

  1. Good point - that title opens it upMeanwhile, I think it's nice to see both - one place to see what may be coming (including those pretty renderings mentioned above), and another to see what is in actually process to be completed soon (perhaps already in an existing thread)
  2. Agreed - pure removal of such a significant route would create major problems and chaos. But a planned redirection of the traffic flows could open up those areas that don't really add any benefit to the pathIf I-45 can be redirected to the east side of downtown, or even on an outer loop, removal of the Pierce elevated would reconnect Midtown with downtown and dramatically strengthen center city development Plus, not mentioned much is how nicely the Buffalo Bayou parks would connect to downtown without the elevated I-45 lanes on the west side of downtown. That amenity is still somewhat cut off today. While not an easy solution, good planning could provide both good transportation and nice city amenities for all 6.5+ million residents of the region
  3. This whole thread does seem to broadly feature proposals with pretty renderings about as much as real projects actively underway Perhaps the 'Dallas development' topic should be split into 'Ideas', some of which may come true, and 'underway' for those projects actually in process
  4. Nice to see, tho correct, it's not actually 'new development' in the traditional sense. Expect one is also already planned or coming soon to Houston (?)
  5. A supertall would make a striking change to either city's skyline, but there isn't really much need (Houston could probably justify before Dallas) If one does get built, it would likely be considerably driven by ego/image - could happen anywhere, which makes the watch for one interesting! In the meantime, I think I prefer the lower profile infill that is increasing overall density
  6. Seems like a big missed opportunity not to reach both downtown areas On the Houston end, a northwest station may be appealing to more affluent residents departing from the area, but would be less enticing to those coming from the other direction On the Dallas end, arriving on the least populated southeast side would feel like stopping short - not much there and most destinations would require a fairly significant secondary trip The density of downtown attractions on both ends would serve many without having to go further, and those that do would have more options
  7. It would be nice if there was retail in the adjacent apartment building, but that’s not absolutely necessary for this park to anchor a mixed use area. For a park this size and stature, it seems that it would also work to have visible retail nearby with easy pedestrian access. Having the park in place at all will be a huge amenity for this area, and the people who will benefit the most will likely be willing to use any services that are nearby.
  8. The new exterior looks like it will be a sleek & refreshing update, however the original look was not really all that bad, similar to surrounding neighbors (also not bad). I assume there must have been some functional need (beyond aesthetics) for the complete recladding, especially for a government building (e.g. structural deficiencies, stronger security, environmental efficiencies) Has that been explained?
  9. When is the expected completion? Looking forward to a chance to stay there
  10. Love the tie back to the former look – helps establish historical tradition for the club
  11. One of the important points you make is that Montrose is important to visitors from less progressive communities. What is interesting is that it's not quite as essential for local residents today - they are finding acceptance in many more areas all over the city. The locals don't need to rely on it as much as they did 15-20 years ago. Overall that is a good thing, but as you describe, something is lost without the shared experience and acceptance that came from the collective common community. Young people coming out today likely experience acceptance much more easily, but they probably miss out on the shared experience that came from gathering together for support
  12. Love this building! Fits nicely into previously ignored Main Street area streetscape. Simple, elegant design with indention that provides a unique, stylish point of interest
  13. Do they ever play real disco music? Always liked that store - it's 'fabulous' regardless of what music is playing!
  14. Very nice looking! I like the bold statement the somewhat subtle notch makes on an otherwise conservative facade. It's similar to what I like about First City Tower.
  15. Montrose is similar to gay neighborhoods in many cities. They are becoming more upscale and diverse (straight people) while gay people are finding acceptance across the city in many other areas. Good progress overall, but kinda sorry to see the tight-knit community dispersed.
  16. One factor to consider is how our preferences for what is considered an attractive building change with time and styles. My experience indicates that we like/tolerate architectural styles for the first 20-25 years; we dislike/despise the styles that are 30-50 years old; but we begin to appreciate those styles again after around 50 years. The pattern has played out many times over: destruction of Victorian structures in the 50's & 60's; destruction of art deco buildings in the 60's and 70's; and the current lack of appreciation for this 1960's Houston Post Office (nothing spectacular, but certainly a period piece). While I do not necessarily propose the protection of this particular building, I do honestly believe that is has a style that we will begin to appreciate much more in the next 10-15 years.
  17. No doubt, Hermann Park is really one of Houston's greatest assets. It is a truly great urban park that dramatically compliments its more natural sibling, Memorial Park; another of the city's spectacular jewels! I also enjoyed the pics of the International Fest -- that has always been one of my favorite events in Houston. The city does a great job of highlighting its international culture amidst an event that appeals to so many diverse segments of the population.
  18. After visiting last month, I look forward to returning after the economy recovers and visiting a thriving Pavilions. The proximity to the Toyota Center, Convention Center, and Discovery Park make this a natural draw with the right retail & entertainment mix. The spillover should help all of downtown.
  19. Downtown Dallas is really starting to develop into a true neighborhood (balancing housing, retail, & employment). Any surplus of housing does slow things down, but as the neighborhood becomes more established, demand for housing will increase.
  20. I visited HP during my recent visit. The current desolation is a little sad, but it a nice center ready to take off as soon as the economy turns around. At the very least the existing potential for new retail and entertainment is better than 3 vacant, full-block parking lots.
  21. I recently visited town and loved this HEB! It combines many of the best features of a standard HEB and a Central Market. Sorry to hear there are some crime issues, but those can be worked out with the appropriate attention. Are there any other similar stores in the area? It seems a good direction for new stores in the more affluent areas of town.
  22. You expressed another reason why new urbanists dislike cul de sacs: when you "notice when a car that doesn't live there comes into it", you illustrate how the cul de sac helps to isolate you from the rest of the neighborhood/world. For some people that is very appealing, but it does prevent the type of desired community new urbanism promotes for much of the rest of the population.
  23. Sharpstown could very well be one of the malls that is projected to close in the current economic environment. I find that disappointing based upon its historical significance - plus, personally it was the first mall I frequented when I moved to Houston years ago. The bright side is that the size of the property and the prime location are very well positioned for a redevelopment that will better serve the community and the city.
  24. This building provides a great boost of residents downtown, although I am underwhelmed by its exterior relative to the other great buildings nearby. Hopefully a few other similar towers will go up around DG to make this one look less lonely.
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