Central Houston, Inc.

A Collaborative Force for Downtown Houston's Future

Central Houston, Inc. (CHI) unites business, institutional and civic leaders to shape the future of Downtown—the economic and cultural core of Houston.

Join the organization driving Downtown’s transformation.

Become a Member

Our Impact

For over 40 years, CHI has guided Downtown's evolution from a central business district in the 1980s into a dynamic, mixed-use neighborhood—home to residents, world-class entertainment and investment that continues to fuel a livable, thriving Downtown.

Long-Term Growth

Working alongside Houston Downtown Management District (HDMD) and Downtown Redevelopment Authority (DRA), CHI advances economic development, shapes major infrastructure projects, and drives policy initiatives that enhance Downtown and sustain long-term growth.

Proven Results

CHI continues to align key stakeholders and progress initiatives that ensure Downtown's success.

Delivered 4000+ Units through Downtown Living Initiative, tripling residential population

Attracted major sports teams, cultural institutions and public spaces to Downtown

Led adaptive reuse projects that revitalized historic buildings into thriving developments

Major Initiatives

CHI plays a role in nearly every major Downtown transformation—uniting leaders, driving policy and shaping Downtown's future.

Some of the current initiatives that we're overseeing include:

Restitching Communities

Improving access, adding parks and trails, supporting flood mitigation and reconnecting communities through a transformative highway cap project.

Creating Pathways to Housing

Driving coordinated strategies that connect people with housing and care—strengthening lives and supporting a more welcoming Downtown for all.

Reimagining Main Street

Leading a new vision for the heart of Downtown, adding trees, shade and patios—linking key destinations with a walkable, welcoming public space.

1980s

A Cultural + Civic Core Takes Root

Central Houston lays a cultural foundation by creating the Theater District, launching the Buffalo Bayou Partnership and Master Plan, and opening the George R. Brown Convention Center—early signals of a Downtown on the rise.

1990s

A Framework for Downtown’s Future

Key governing tools take shape, including the formation of the Houston Downtown Management District and TIRZ #3, supporting the redevelopment of historic spaces like the Rice Hotel.

2000s

A Destination Comes Alive

Downtown evolves into a destination with the opening of sports stadiums, Discovery Green, and METRO light rail, along with the expansion of the Convention Center.

2010s

A Lifestyle Emerges in Downtown

Residential growth accelerates through the Downtown Living Initiative. Market Square Park reopens as a lively anchor to attract development, and Kinder High School for the Performing and Visual Arts brings creative energy to the city core.

2020s

An Urban Revival Underway

A new era of public space and innovation emerges with POST Houston, Trebly Park, the Main Street Promenade, and a transformation of the George R. Brown Convention Center—plus a World Series celebration for the ages.

Join Central Houston

CHI members don't just observe change—they create it. Whether you're a business leader, property owner or civic stakeholder, your voice can shape the next phase of Downtown's success.

Learn more about membership benefits and discover a network of Central Houston leaders.

Become a Member

Questions About Membership?

For questions about membership, please contact Andy:

Andy Corbin, Member Relations Manager
andy.corbin@downtownhouston.org