The proposed Friendswood Trails development will bring 424 homes to the former Sunmeadow golf course.[/caption]
What we reported Parke Patterson, owner of Sugar Land-based Parke Patterson Land Development, faced initial opposition from Friendswood City Council in July to a zoning change that would have advanced a residential development. The 276-acre development dubbed Friendswood Trails would place 424 home sites on the former Sunmeadow golf course, which folded about 15 years ago. Initial opposition to Friendswood Trails stemmed from resident concerns about the potential for increased flooding and decreased resale values. Patterson reached out to the home owners association to make concessions to residents, like improving Sunmeadow’s drainage and keeping green space for residents with backyards facing what was once the golf course. Patterson began meeting with community stakeholders two years ago to move the development forward. Patterson formed Friendswood Trails LLC in early 2016 and serves as a co-partner. The new company will be responsible for the residential development.
The latest Friendswood City Council approved the zoning change in September to advance the residential development. Friendswood Trails LLC closed on the sale for the land in December. The development includes 80 acres of green space, two parks, trails and five detention ponds. Losing green space was of particular concern for Sunmeadow residents, who had come to enjoy the spacious outdoors but now abut the new development. Although some existing residents will have neighbors moving close to their backyard fences, those living along the horseshoe-shaped green space around Old Course and Gleneagles drives will keep their green space.
What’s next Patterson is working on an engineering design to outline water, sewer and drainage plans as well as street placement. He plans to begin development by spring. No homebuilders have been contracted yet. Build-out of Friendswood Trails is expected within six to seven years of its ground breaking. Homes are expected to be priced in the $300,000 to $600,000 range.
This story is one update from The January Issue. View the full list of 10 things to look for here
