Pearland leaders review vision, costs and phasing for Old Town revitalization

Consultants and city staff on Monday presented the City of Pearland’s draft Old Town Revitalization Plan to a joint workshop of the City Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission, laying out five “big idea” projects, preliminary cost estimates and next steps for public engagement and implementation.

The presentation, led by consultants from Olson (consulting), Community Development Strategies (CDS) and Baxter & Woodman, described concepts ranging from a Depot District with a flexible green and relocated depot to a Festival Street on Grand Boulevard, a mixed-use “Center Square” redevelopment, a Broadway/Main Street reconfiguration and smaller catalytic redevelopment parcels south of State Highway 35.

The plan matters because it is intended to guide private development and public investments in an area of Pearland officials say has lower current assessed value and limited evening activity. Consultants presented draft financial estimates and infrastructure costs and asked for Council and Planning & Zoning feedback before an open house and a stakeholder preview scheduled the next day.

Consultant Michelle Queen, a consultant with Olson, said the plan grew from outreach that began July 2024 and included 12 pop-up events and an open house. “Old Town Pearland blends history, culture, and modern growth with sustainable infrastructure, distinctive design, walkability, and vibrant public spaces,” Queen said when describing the draft vision statement.

Bridal Cain, also with Olson, summarized the plan’s stated needs: a well-maintained physical environment, a lively walkable atmosphere, support for small business and new programmed…