Posted Apr 13, 2018, 1:45 AM
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Sears building will be restored, along with the official announcement, they've begun removing the facade.
Historic Midtown Sears building to anchor Houston innovation district
Quote:
“The innovation district will leverage the region’s unique economic strengths and help transform Houston into a world leader in data science and digital technologies centered on energy, industrial, health care and logistics industries,” said Rice President David Leebron. “We aim to attract talent and support all stages of the innovation life cycle through state-of-the-art resources, incubators and accelerators, classroom and event space, technology, prototyping facilities, networking opportunities and entrepreneurship support and training.”
The district will combine a variety of commercial uses with housing, food and entertainment, iconic public space and best-in-class infrastructure, Leebron said. “The surrounding neighborhoods’ vibrant and rich culture will be embraced to create an eclectic, engaging streetscape that blends the historic with the new and celebrates Houston’s diversity,” he said.
“This will be an innovation and incubation facility for all Houston. Rice owns the property, but the enterprise will be a collaborative mix of many different participants and activities,” Leebron said.
In developing these plans, Rice worked closely with the GHP, HX and Station Houston, the region’s hub for tech innovation and entrepreneurship focused on digital technologies. Station Houston will serve as incubator and amenity program operator and will work on three key initiatives: connecting ecosystem players to drive high-impact collaborations; supporting entrepreneurs and the innovation community through a range of programs, workshops and events; and working with academic institutions and other groups to develop and connect Houston’s digital workforce.
“Transformative,” John Reale Jr., co-founder and CEO of Station Houston, said of the project. “Today we take a major step forward toward our shared vision of transforming Houston into a world-leading tech innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem. This could not be possible without the ongoing collaboration of Houston’s academic institutions, corporations, major institutions, investors and entrepreneurs. We applaud Rice for its vision and commitment in leading this community effort.”
“The district will serve as the central anchor of Houston’s innovation corridor, a concentration of activity that has already piqued the interest of several major companies looking to build synergies with our startups and innovators,” said Bob Harvey, GHP president and CEO. “To have a physical hub for this collaboration is exactly what Houston needs and is another positive step forward for our community.”
“The formation of the innovation district is a significant milestone in the implementation of the 10-point strategic plan we announced in 2017 to build a world-class innovation ecosystem in Houston,” said HX Chairwoman Gina Luna. “This announcement builds on the momentum we’ve created over the last year, including the formation of HX and the HX Venture Fund. This is incredibly exciting for Houston.”
The former Sears building will be renovated for the project. The overall design and development of the building will be led by Hines in conjunction with architects Gensler and James Carpenter. The initial phase is expected to be completed within two years. The redevelopment of the building will respect its historic character while making the modifications required to create dynamic space for creative companies in the innovation ecosystem, Leebron said.
“The many participants already committed to this vision typify Houston’s collective spirit of inclusivity and entrepreneurship, and we welcome people and organizations who can contribute to its overarching mission,” he said.
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