The first tenants of Hughes Landing, the 66-acre mixed-used development under construction north of East Shore on Lake Woodlands, have been announced. Layne Christensen, a global water management, construction and drilling company, will relocate its corporate headquarters from Mission Woods, Kan., to The Woodlands beginning in the spring.

Susan Vreeland-Wendt, director of marketing for The Woodlands Development Company, said Layne Christensen will occupy the top two floors of One Hughes Landing, totaling more than 51,000 square feet. One Hughes Landing is the first Class A office building under development in Hughes Landing.

According to Layne Christensen, the move will include most of the company's executive positions in its corporate leadership, as well as some management and staff positions.

"This decision reflects Layne's commitment to our One Layne operating philosophy, the continuing growth of our business, and the evolution of our end markets," said Rene Robichaud, president and chief executive officer of Layne. "Houston provides enhanced access to some of the nation's leading energy companies, an important consideration as we build our total water management solutions business for the oil and gas industry."

Layne received a $1.3 million grant from the Texas Enterprise Fund, a tool used by the state to recruit and bolster businesses in Texas.

Gov. Ricky Perry said in a statement that Layne's relocation to The Woodlands would create 210 jobs and $6.7 million in capital investment.

"The Lone Star State continues to fuel the nation, providing the oil and gas products that keep American running and the job creation that has helped strengthen our economy," Perry said. "Our commitment to a skilled workforce along with our low taxes, reasonable regulations and fair courts, are what companies like Layne Christensen are looking for as they expand their operations."

The company's relocation is expected to be complete by next winter.

"We are thrilled to welcome Layne Christensen as the newest member of The Woodlands area's corporate community," said Gil Staley, CEO of The Woodlands Area Economic Development Partnership. "The decision to relocate their corporate headquarters to our community reaffirms that The Woodlands area is uniquely positioned to provide the best business environment, form its vibrant economy to a superior quality of life."