Bikers and hikers using the MKT Trail approaching White Oak Bayou from the northwest may have noticed a patch of wooded land to their right and wondered when and how it would be developed. Thanks to Houston Parks Board and Harris County Flood Control District, this parcel of land will be preserved as open space while making the White Oak Bayou watershed more resilient against flooding. 

Neighbors on E 5th, Oxford, Fraser, and Granberry Streets can finally stop worrying that development of the property would drive traffic down their streets. Several attempts to turn the parcel into apartments, townhomes, or condominiums have failed over the years due to lack of adequate street access for residents and emergency vehicles.

The property, valued at $1.7 million, was purchased below market value thanks to a generous donation from the owner. Harris County Flood Control District contributed $900,000 to the property purchase and Houston Parks Board contributed $600,000 thanks to a generous donation from the Kinder Foundation. 

The purchase of the land ensures that the property shall be maintained in perpetuity for floodplain preservation and open space, and as needed for regional detention and channel modification and repair. The land may also be used for outdoor recreational activities, wetlands management, nature reserves, and community cultivation.