HOUSTON – Downtown Houston’s Main Street is undergoing a $14 million transformation that promises to revolutionize the area’s dining and entertainment scene, with completion targeted before the World Cup arrives in the city.
The ambitious project, spanning seven blocks from Rusk to Commerce, is converting former car lanes into expanded pedestrian spaces, adding greenery and artistic elements that will give businesses room to grow and create more inviting outdoor spaces.
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Pandemic-Inspired Evolution
The renovation project emerged from the successful adaptation of businesses during pandemic restrictions, when establishments were granted additional outdoor space. Now, that temporary solution is becoming a permanent enhancement to downtown’s landscape.
“Main streets across North America are doing a lot of soul-searching,” said Cassie Hoeprich, director of planning and economic development at Downtown Houston+. “Downtowns are changing. Working from home is something that a lot of downtowns are adjusting to. But what downtowns are also seeing is an influx of visitors.”
Local Businesses Set to Expand
For businesses like La Diabla Retro Bar at the corner of Main and Congress, the renovation presents significant growth opportunities.
Owner Ramon Soriano told KPRC 2 News he plans to triple customer capacity with new outdoor seating, complete with misters and large umbrellas.
“La Diabla until now has been just a nightclub, Thursday, Friday and Saturday night,” said Soriano, noting the challenges of surviving on just three days of business per week.
The expanded space will allow the venue to add lunch and dinner service throughout the week, creating new jobs and expanding their business model, he said.
Project Details
The renovation, funded by a federal grant through the Houston-Galveston Area Council and the Downtown Redevelopment Authority, includes:
- Expanded sidewalks and pedestrian areas
- Bayou-inspired greenery
- Decorative brick street art
- Enhanced shade structures
- Space for expanded outdoor dining spaces
Approximately 40 businesses along Main Street could benefit from these improvements, which are scheduled for completion by June, just in time for the World Cup.
Long-Term Vision
“This will become the best corner in downtown,” Soriano said, who sees the World Cup as a catalyst for lasting change in the area. “Once people get to know downtown thanks to the draw that the World Cup is going to bring... we’ll create the cadence that we’ve been looking for in downtown for a while.”
The project represents what Hoeprich describes as a “Main Street glow up, makeover,” designed to transform downtown Houston’s future.
By creating more pedestrian-friendly spaces and opportunities for businesses to expand their offerings, the renovation aims to establish Main Street as a vibrant destination for both locals and visitors long after the World Cup concludes.