Houston, TX – In an exciting development for the East Downtown and Third Ward communities, Greater Southeast Management District (Houston Southeast), in collaboration with District D Councilmember Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz,  District I Councilmember Joaquin Martinez, East Downtown Management District, East Downtown Redevelopment Authority (TIRZ 15), and the OST-Almeda Corridors Redevelopment Authority (TIRZ 7), under the leadership of the City of Houston, announces a transformative $7.5 million investment for safety and infrastructure improvements along the Columbia Tap Trail. This investment is made possible via a grant award from the Houston-Galveston Area Council. This project will ensure the historic Third Ward, East Downtown communities, and surrounding neighborhoods have a safe, accessible, and well-maintained trail for residents and visitors alike.

This multi-million-dollar initiative will enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety, upgrade lighting, and improve the overall infrastructure along the trail, improving access and connectivity within and between East Downtown and Third Ward communities.

District D Councilwoman Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz emphasized the importance of the project for the community, stating that “This investment in the Columbia Tap Trail is a significant step toward improving connectivity, safety, and infrastructure in the heart of District D. I want to thank Mayor John Whitmire for prioritizing this project and ensuring it is part of his administration’s commitment to equitable development. Special thanks also go to Randy Macchi from Houston Public Works for his leadership in pushing this forward, as well as the Houston Southeast Team and our East Downtown partners for their dedicated collaboration in making this vision a reality.”

District I Council Member Joaquin Martinez celebrated the $7.5 million grant award, sharing that “The Columbia Tap Trail is an important corridor for many in our community. It is vital to connecting users to jobs, schools, and transit as well as providing recreational opportunities. The funding will provide much needed improvements to lighting, and infrastructure that will enhance the safety of pedestrians and cyclists along the trail. I’m grateful for the East Downtown Management District’s leadership, the community’s advocacy and for their collaborative effort to secure this funding.”

Dr. Abdul Haleem Muhammad, Transportation and Local Mobility Chair for the Greater Southeast Management District (Houston Southeast) echoes the sentiments of the Councilmembers and maintains the stance that “This is the outcome of strategic, collective and focused work. Organizations like the Friends of Columbia Tap, keep us connected to issues that impact the trail. The District is focused on creating solutions and this opportunity to partner with the Houston-Galveston Area Council and other local partners to fund the critical improvements along the Columbia Tap Trail, was strategically necessary for Third Ward and the connections to East Downtown. The Greater Southeast Management District is certain that these improvements will enhance safety and the overall experience for cyclists and pedestrians and the broader community.

Shahin Naghavi, Chair of the East Downtown Management District, reiterates the importance of this funding and partnership: “These grant funds are critical for maintaining a safe and comfortable Columbia Tap Trail, connecting and energizing multiple neighborhoods in our diverse and dynamic city. Providing safe modes of transportation, which includes walking and biking, is integral to our communities. We are thankful to all our partners in this effort and are excited to continue collaborating throughout implementation.”

East Downtown Redevelopment Authority (TIRZ 15) Board Member, Seth Hopkins spoke about the historical significance and evolution of the former rail line, stating, “The Columbia Tap was built in the 1850s as a vital rail connection between downtown Houston and Brazoria County. Today, it’s an important green space, and I’m proud of East Downtown’s work beautifying the trail, improving street crossings, and installing amenities like exercise equipment, trees, and benches.  These improvements have encouraged new homes and businesses to evolve around this resource, and this latest investment will create a safer, better-lighted, and consistent experience along the entire four-mile route.”

Councilwoman Dr. Evans-Shabazz further highlighted the broader impact of this investment: “The improvements along the Columbia Tap Trail not only ensure safer pathways for pedestrians and cyclists but also support the vibrant culture and history of the Third Ward. This is a critical step in making sure that our communities have the infrastructure they deserve.”

While the Greater Southeast Management District served as the project sponsor, the project was developed in coordination with and with local match support by the East Downtown Management District and the East Downtown Redevelopment Authority (TIRZ 15).  This collaborative effort reflects the shared commitment of stakeholders to preserve and enhance the community while ensuring long-term economic growth.

For more information on this project and ongoing developments, please contact the office of Greater Southeast Management District (Houston Southeast).