Decision Makers: Houston Planning Commission, Council Member Abbie Kamin

The Issue
We, the residents, neighbors, and supporters of a more walkable and sustainable Houston, support Variance Request 25099661 for the proposed residential development at 3520 & 3616 Center Street.

This project represents an opportunity to bring new housing to a centrally located corridor near existing businesses, trails, and services—while reducing excessive parking requirements that increase costs and limit housing availability.

We urge the Planning Commission to APPROVE Variance Request 25099661.

 
Why This Variance Should Be Approved:
1. Supporting Housing Supply in Central Houston
Houston faces a shortage of housing in walkable, high-demand areas. Allowing flexibility in parking requirements enables more efficient land use and helps deliver housing closer to jobs, services, and amenities.

Excessive parking requirements increase construction costs, which are passed on to residents through higher rents.

 
2. Reducing Traffic by Allowing People to Live Near Destinations
This location is near Washington Avenue businesses, employment centers, and bike corridors. When people live closer to destinations, they drive less.

More housing in central locations reduces long-distance commuting and traffic congestion across the city.

 
3. Parking Minimums Are Not Safety Requirements
Parking minimums are policy tools—not safety mandates. Many successful developments in Houston and other cities operate safely with reduced parking, especially in walkable areas.

Oversupplying parking encourages more driving, congestion, and land consumption.

 
4. Supporting Local Businesses Through More Nearby Residents
New residents increase foot traffic and customer base for local businesses like Star Pizza, Rockafellers, and others. More nearby residents strengthen neighborhood retail and help businesses thrive.

People who live nearby are frequent customers.

 
5. Efficient Land Use Strengthens Neighborhood Vitality
Structured parking is extremely expensive and consumes valuable space that could otherwise be used for housing, landscaping, or public-facing improvements.

Allowing flexibility enables more thoughtful, efficient development.

 
The Bigger Picture
Houston is evolving. Walkable neighborhoods, housing near destinations, and more efficient land use help create stronger, more resilient communities.

Approving this variance supports responsible growth while allowing flexibility in how projects meet community needs.

 
How You Can Help
• Sign this petition to show support
• Email: speakercomments.pc@houstontx.gov
• Subject line: Support Variance 25099661 at Center St
• Message: “I support Variance Request 25099661 to allow responsible housing development in Central Houston.”

• Attend the Planning Commission hearing:
Thursday, Feb 19, 2:30 PM
City Hall Annex
900 Bagby St