Montgomery County Commissioner James Noack announced today that Howard Hughes will construct a new state-of-the art library and community center at a revitalized Grogan’s Mill Village Center.
The agreement was unanimously approved by the Montgomery County Commissioners Court following a presentation by Jim Carman, President of the Houston Region for Howard Hughes, who provided renderings of the new structures, as well as plans for refurbished retail properties.
According to County Commissioner James Noack (Precinct 3), “The benefits of this project for residents of Precinct 3 are clear. This agreement allows the development of a more spacious and modernized community center, as well as a state-of-the-art library designed for all ages. The Community Center will continue to host and expand the capacity available for voting, community activities, meetings and senior lunches. Benefits of the new library include a dedicated children’s area, a young adult’s room, multiple study and workrooms throughout the facility, a 100-person theatre-style classroom, and updated technological amenities. Rather than continuing to spend funds on the maintenance and upkeep of facilities that are nearly 30 years old, this initiative is not only financially beneficial, it will exceed the expectations of our residents.”
According to the exchange agreement, Howard Hughes will spend $16.5 million for the design and construction of the new library and community center. Upon completion, the County will take ownership of the newly constructed facility and 7.8 acres of land with a total value of over $30 million. In exchange, Howard Hughes will take ownership of the 5.72 acres of land currently occupied by The South Regional Library and South County Community Center, which will remain open and operational until the completion of the transaction.
“When Howard Hughes acquired the Grogan’s Mill Village Center, we committed to revitalizing and developing it in a way that creates a more vibrant destination for our community,” said Carman. “This agreement is a reflection of that commitment, and we are pleased to partner with Commissioners Court for the benefit of residents of Montgomery County, the Village of Grogan’s Mill, and all of The Woodlands.”
Howard Hughes will maintain ownership of the retail property, which will be modernized to attract new tenants and visitors. The Grogan’s Mill Village Center will also remain the home of The Woodlands Farmers Market. Further enhancements to the Village Center, including to the farmers market, is being discussed with The Woodlands Township.
Commissioner Noack went on to say, “Open lines of communication and collaboration between the County and Township will be critical to the success of this endeavor, and I look forward to working with the Board of Directors and all of the stakeholders of the Grogan’s Mill Village Center throughout this exciting project.”
