Monthly Planner Newsletter: July 2024

July 2024

Planning Team Welcomes Director Vonn Tran

Mayor John Whitmire appointed Vonn Tran as the new director of the Planning and Development Department on July 5, and the department officially welcomed her on July 22. Director Tran has over 20 years in the commercial real estate industry. Her leadership skills have a proven track record of bringing opposing parties together to reach a consensus and respond to customers. Tran's background includes knowledge of Special Districts, such as Management Districts, TIRZs, and MUDs, and how they aid development and redevelopment. She also has expertise in the impact regulations have on development and neighborhoods.

As Planning Director, Tran oversees the implementation of ordinances that affect development, neighborhoods and preservation. She also leads Transportation Planning, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Community Outreach. Additionally, she supports the Planning Commission, Houston Archeological and Historical Commission, and Tower Commission. Tran believes in streamlining operations to create efficiencies that help customers and staff. Read more about Director Vonn Tran.

City and Houston Housing Authority Partner in Landmark

$50 Million Housing Grant Application for Cuney Homes

The Houston Housing Authority (HHA) and the City of Houston have been awarded a $50 million Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Announced during a celebratory event on July 26, the grant represents the culmination of years of planning and community engagement. It is intended to fund the redevelopment of the historic Cuney Homes public housing property in the Third Ward.

The grant will enable HHA to redevelop and expand Cuney Homes, providing affordable housing for more families by increasing capacity from serving 553 households to 1,115. This mixed-income development will prioritize current residents while creating new opportunities for affordable homeownership and rental housing in the area. The revitalization efforts will focus on upgrading infrastructure, creating new community spaces, and fostering economic opportunities for local businesses.

The City will continue to help leverage resources and participate in implementation of select projects.

PD's Community and Regional Planning Division Manager

Lynn Henson assisted HHA in the City's role as co-applicant for the grant. During the event, Henson assisted on the Cuney Homes site tour with HUD representatives and partner agencies.

"This initiative highlights the power of federal and local collaboration. With a substantial $50 million investment in the Third Ward, Houstonians will witness a vibrant transformation starting with Cuney Homes that will benefit and enhance our entire city. This project represents a step forward in urban renewal and showcases how strategic partnerships can profoundly uplift communities."

Mayor John Whitmire

Read the full press release.

MTFP Recommendations Presented to

Planning Commission on Sept. 19

The 2024 Major Thoroughfare and Freeway Plan (MTFP) Amendment Requests Public Hearing was held at the Planning Commission on July 25. The MTFP is a long-range right-of-way (ROW) requirement plan to preserve adequate ROW for the orderly and efficient expansion of the transportation network. The purpose of the MTFP is to preserve mobility and ensure safe and efficient development of the roadway system.

Staff will give an application update at the Planning Commission meeting at 1 p.m. on August 22, and will present recommendations to Planning Commission at 1 p.m. on Sept.19.

Watch a recording of the MTFP Public Hearing. https://bit.ly/4c3yTwa

Learn more at https://www.houstontx.gov/planning/transportation/MTFP.html

Historic Preservation Benefits from Mentoring Program

Earlier this month, our Historic Preservation team went to CAMP, the Commission Assistance and Mentoring Program, a training offered by the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions (NAPC). The training was funded by a grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Guided by preservation professionals, the program helps to build strong local preservation programs and educates staff and leaders through training and advocacy. The Houston Archaeological and Historical Commission (HAHC), Historic Preservation Appeals Board (HPAB), and Historic Preservation staff said the training was informative, engaging, and inspired them to continue preservation work across the city.

Celebrating Employee Career Milestones

Please join us in congratulating our team members for reaching these career milestones. We thank them for their years of dedicated service to the City of Houston and the Planning & Development Department.

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