Houston in modernizing mode
Houston continues to modernize its infrastructure for the international traveler with a new cruise terminal, the recent completion of the METRORail and greener downtown options. The “energy capital of the world” is also home to NASA Johnson Space Center and the Texas Medical Center in addition to a rich and energetic offering of arts & culture, professional sports -including 165+ golf courses, fine dining, attractions and more.
By contrast its western heritage is found year-round at the George Ranch Historical Park and in the annual Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the world’s largest.
There are several new developments in Houston. The Port of Houston inaugurated the Bayport Container Terminal, a modern, efficient and environmentally advanced facility that completed the first phase of the Bayport project. The US$80 million project also includes the Bayport Cruise Terminal expected to be in operation in early 2008. The new cruise terminal’s intelligent design was carefully planned to improve passenger satisfaction.
The new Bayport Cruise Terminal will enable the Port of Houston to accommodate larger cruise vessels. Houston Pavilions’ Restaurant Line-up Houston Pavillions, soon to be downtown’s premier entertainment, retail and urban office hub, has secured six new restaurants to add to an impressive lineup of tenants that already includes Houston’s first House of Blues® and Lucky Strike locations. New restaurants include: Lawry’s, The Prime Ribe, McCormick & Schmick’s, Yao’s Restaurant and Bar, Antica Osteria, Red Cat Jazz Café and Tuscany for a variety of options. The US$160 million project is expected to open in the first part of 2008.
Construction is underway for the US$93 million “Discovery Green” park located across from the George R. Brown Convention Center. “Discovery Green will be a premiere urban park – on par with many other great urban parks found in the world’s leading cities,” said Houston’s Mayor Bill White.
The park features fountains, beautiful green spaces, a jogging trail, a playground, two restaurants, an amphitheater, picnic areas and other activities visitors can experience and enjoy. The park is scheduled to open in early 2008.
Report by Chitra Mogul
Chitra Mogul
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