Houston-based real estate developer Pagewood announced a new redevelopment project that will transform warehouses in Houston’s bustling East Downtown neighborhood into a massive 10-block mixed-use district.
Originally slated to break ground in the second quarter of 2024, the multi-phased development – dubbed East Blocks, will encompass 513,000 square feet southwest of Shell Energy Stadium.
Phase one will feature a unique blend of restaurants, shops, office and green space and will include existing tenants 8th Wonder Brewery and Pitch 25, while phase two will focus on additional retail and restaurant space.
Construction on the first phase is expected to be completed by August 2026, with Handies Douzo securing a new location within the development.
“East Blocks reflects a long-term belief in EaDo and the kind of place it’s becoming,” said Mat Volz, Managing Principal of Pagewood, in a news release. “As the project has evolved, our commitment to that vision has only strengthened. Breaking ground on Phase 1 is an exciting step forward, particularly as this neighborhood prepares to welcome the world. With the FIFA Fan Festival taking place just steps from East Blocks and bringing thousands of visitors daily to EaDo, we see this project playing a meaningful role in that energy and in the long-term evolution of the district.”
Aiming to enhance walkability in the area, the project includes converting the site’s former railways into four city blocks of green space that will connect the revitalized warehouses. The existing promenade will become a dedicated greenspace for community gatherings and activities such as fitness classes and farmer’s markets.
Additionally, East Blocks will include an open-air alleyway concept to connect three buildings along Hutchins and McKinney Street and a walking and biking loop that will provide easy access to the new district from Downtown and the Columbia Tap trails that run through EaDo and the East End.
East Blocks joins several other new developments taking shape in Houston’s thriving EaDo neighborhood as the area continues to transform into a livelier and more walkable neighborhood.
East River, a 150-acre mixed-use development situated on the banks of Buffalo Bayou opened this year featuring office, restaurant and retail space along with a 360-unit apartment complex. The project also included a nine-hole golf course and restaurant concept – East River 9.
A similar concept, The Plant, a 17-acre mixed-use district, will revamp the historic streets of Second Ward, establishing a pedestrian-friendly district lined with a diverse mix of restaurants and shops.
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