HOUSTON – Construction tied to the Fourth Ward redevelopment project remains unfinished in parts of the historic neighborhood, more than a year after residents first raised concerns about sidewalk conditions.
During a visit this week, KPRC 2 observed construction crews actively working along several streets in the Fourth Ward. Much of the concrete has been poured, but some sections of sidewalk remain incomplete, creating uneven surfaces and gaps.
Fourth Ward resident Felix Cisneros, who previously spoke with KPRC 2 in October 2024, walked through the neighborhood again this week and pointed out areas where work is still unfinished.
“This is still frustrating,” Cisneros said. “We’re the ones that live here, we’re the ones that pay taxes.”
The redevelopment effort is part of a multi-phase plan aimed at improving infrastructure while preserving the Fourth Ward’s historic character.
Vanessa Sampson, executive director of the Fourth Ward Redevelopment Authority, said at the time in October 2024 that the project’s final phase is funded through Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone 14 and involves coordination with the City of Houston and Public Works.
“One of the hiccups in this particular phase three is they were kicking us back saying we need wider sidewalks, and we said we’re not going to do that, because once we did it in phase 1 and phase 2, we’re going to be consistent,” Sampson said.
Construction crews were visible working along the streets during KPRC 2’s visit.
KPRC 2 reached out to the City of Houston for an updated timeline on when the remaining work is expected to be completed and is awaiting a response.