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Leaders sound off against proposed gas station in Third Ward community
State Rep. Jolanda Jones led a city hall against a proposed gas station set to be built in the Riverside Terrace neighborhood. FOX 26's Mekenna Earnhart shares why leaders, authorities, and residents are against the new store.
HOUSTON, Texas - Residents of Houston’s historic Riverside Terrace community are mobilizing against a proposed gas station development they argue threatens their safety and the character of their neighborhood.
"Fuel Depot" project planned
The backstory:
An emergency town hall Friday night saw State Representative Jolanda Jones and concerned homeowners voice strong opposition to the "Fuel Depot" project planned for the corner of Live Oak Street and Southmore Boulevard.
For days, the developer behind the controversial project remained largely anonymous, fueling community frustration. However, at Friday's meeting, Rep. Jones identified Dhuka Investments as the group pushing the development forward.
Concerns were also raised about the transparency of the process, with relizations that the current property owners had already signed off on the application, leading to residents feeling blindsided and unheard.
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Pushback against proposed gas station, and more | Houston Live & Local
State Rep. Jolanda Jones led a town hall regarding a proposed gas station in a Third Ward community that residents are against. That and more on this evening edition of "Houston Live & Local."
‘Not just about one convenience store’
What they're saying:
"This is not just about one convenience store; it’s a battle over property rights and neighborhood legacy," said one longtime resident who spoke at the Good Hope Baptist Church gathering.
Many in the Third Ward community expressed worries about increased crime, environmental impact, and declining property values should the gas station be built just feet from existing homes. Residents pointed to existing gas stations across the highway as examples of businesses that have brought unwanted activity to the area.
Councilwoman Carolyn Evans-Shabazz, who both represents and lives in the area, echoed calls for better communication during property sales.
Harris County Precinct 7 Constable James "Smokie" Phillips also addressed attendees, speaking to potential safety concerns.
Third Ward residents push back against proposed gas station, convenience store
Residents in Houston’s Third Ward are pushing back against a proposed gas station and convenience store, saying the development would bring more crime, environmental risks and unwanted traffic to a historic neighborhood.
Next steps for residents
What's next:
The emergency town hall served as a call to action, with Rep. Jones outlining next steps for residents to organize collectively and demand accountability.
The community's immediate focus is now on the Houston City Planning Commission, which is expected to review the project's application.
The Source: State Representative Jolanda Jones, town hall meeting, Constable Smokie Phillips, Riverside Terrace residents