Houston, TX (2005-2008)
Challenge
For years, downtown Houston was an automobile-centric, placeless district without any public spaces for residents to congregate. PPS was hired by the Discovery Green Conservancy to help lead a public visioning process in order to transform 12 acres of underused green space and parking lots near the convention center into an urban oasis that serves as a village green, a source of health and happiness for Houstonians, and a window into the diverse talents and traditions that enrich life in the city.
Process/Solutions
PPS facilitated a series of meetings and workshops, during which participants worked together to develop a vision for the park, and recommend attractions that would entice different people. Stakeholder meetings were also held, with downtown workers, residents of the second ward, representatives of cultural and environmental organizations, the Mexican community, youths, and others. The process revealed a number of common concerns and elements that were integrated into the concept for the park that PPS ultimately developed for the Conservancy, including: linkages to other downtown institutions; the desire and need for activities at all times of the day, week, and year; multi-functional spaces that can serve different purposes; preservation of certain existing landscape features (mature oak trees); and children‘s activities to attract families.
Outcomes
The park opened in Spring 2008, and it has been phenomenally successful. It attracted 2.3 million plus visitors since its opening in April 2008 through 2010. The park hosts more than 800 public and private events each year, consistently attracting local patrons. In terms of economic impact, Discovery Green has catalyzed nearly $500 million dollars (completed/underway) in nearby development; a number of residential and commercial projects have specifically noted Discovery Green as the impetus for their investment. PPS’ economic impact study can be found here.
Client: Discovery Green Conservancy