Coming in 2025: Exciting Updates from Downtown Houston+

January 2, 2025

As 2025 begins, we're looking ahead to the exciting programs, projects and transformations shaping Downtown Houston this year.

Here are some of the highlights of the coming year for Downtown Houston+, with more on the way:

Market Square Park Kiosk – This spring, acclaimed chef Omar Pereney launches Petite Lucie at the heart of Historic Market Square. Following a renovation led by Downtown Houston+, the reimagined space will debut as an all-day destination, offering early-morning croissants, bistro dining, a cozy outdoor bar and catering options for Downtown offices and residents.

Main Street Promenade Construction – Starting this spring, seven blocks of Main Street will transform into the Main Street Promenade, featuring expanded outdoor dining, enhanced landscaping and strategic shade elements to moderate temperatures. Construction is expected to complete within 12 months using a block-by-block approach to minimize business disruption. Questions about construction? Reach out to Cassie Hoeprich, Director of Urban Planning & Economic Development.

Thrive Storefront Grants – A $2.25M investment in strategic retail grants will continue to energize Downtown’s street-level commerce. The Thrive Storefront Grant Program’s impact extends to projects like Barbacana, where chef Christian Hernandez’s new restaurant utilizes the matching grant to expand into outdoor dining space and shade-enhancing awnings, advancing Downtown’s evolution as a dynamic destination for residents, workers and visitors.

Trebly Park Shade – Construction gets underway this year to add over 3,400 square feet of permanent shade structures to Trebly Park. This architectural solution for sun-soaked portions of the park will help support more comfortable park-going experiences. Since opening in 2023, Trebly Park has served as a neighborhood gathering spot with a cafe, active programming and fun spots for children and dogs.

Public Art Gateway – As part of the Pedestrian Lighting initiatives, a new illuminated gateway by local design team Moon Papas will connect Downtown and EaDo at Texas Avenue and Rusk Street, offering a safe and joyful pedestrian experience.

Public Realm Action Plan – Launching in early 2025, this comprehensive plan outlines key enhancements to Downtown’s parks, plazas and public spaces, beginning with cooling and illuminating specific corridors and a refreshed parks programming strategy. Implementation will be a multi-year process, but the plan will provide a roadmap to create a more lively and comfortable experience for all in Downtown Houston.

Rebranded Place Identity – More than 2000 destination-specific banners will continue to be rolled out on lamp posts across Downtown, aiming to make the District more inviting and foster community identity. After launching for the holidays and at Toyota Center, the coming banners will also highlight Downtown's history, achievements and add festive cheer for special events.

Office Conversions – Building on 2023 feasibility studies, Downtown Houston+ continues to provide deep analysis and incentive support for office-to-housing conversions, unlocking potential for new residential opportunities in the heart of the city.

These efforts and much more in 2025 represent the next chapter in creating a more livable, connected and dynamic Downtown Houston.

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