As work continues to bring a new mixed-income housing development to Stella Link Road in southwest Houston, officials with the city of Houston provided an update Sept. 19 on what that community could look like.
A developer has yet to be selected to bring the project to life, a decision that could be made in December, but city officials said they are looking into public feedback collected so far, including requests related to community character and green space.
Once completed, the community will occupy roughly 12.2 acres of land along Stella Link west of Main Street and north of Willowbend Boulevard. A total of 194 homes will be included, including 99 homes with affordable pricing, though those estimates are subject to change as the city continues its due diligence process.
In a public input process that took place earlier this year, the top concerns to emerge revolved around green space, home design and mobility within the neighborhood, according to the Sept. 19 presentation. Community members asked for designs that promote individual homeownership, including yards and individualized porches.
Top requests also included shared green space amenities within the community as well as shaded trails and playgrounds. Participants in the public input also emphasized the importance of having a homeowners association to maintain community standards.
Those looking to apply to the affordable units must be at 80% of the average median income and have been living in the city of Houston during Hurricane Harvey. They will also be required to secure a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, city officials said.
In exchange for the assistance in buying a home, residents must agree to a five-year secondary lien and downpayment assistance.
Those interested in buying a home in the community can fill out an interest survey here or contact the city at [email protected] with questions. Those who fill out the survey will be notified when houses are close to ready to be sold and directed to an application and a detailed webinar walking them through the process.
When homes are around 66% complete, accepted applicants will connected to the developer to schedule a home design meeting.
Construction on the homes could begin in April, and homes could be ready for people to move into around January 2024.
