"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.

Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has"

Margaret Mead, Anthropologist
(used with permission)



"If you don't like the news .... go out and make some of your own !!"

Wes "Scoop" Nisker, Newscaster



INTRODUCTION

Government is a slow and tedious process. While it often includes citizen and neighborhood involvement, non-governmental, private organizations have created movements and interesting groups which can create positive change in our cities and towns.

I am fascinated by the way groups are created and how they influence public decision making. This blog merely recognizes them and forwards the description of these groups from their own websites.

Monday, May 20, 2013

Row House Community Development Corporation

Location: Houston, TX

Website: www.rowhousecdc.org

Row House CDCwas established in 2003 as a sister corporation to Project Row Houses (PRH) in direct response to PRH’s vision to “create community” in Houston’s Northern Third Ward. Row House CDC’s mission is to develop housing for low-to-moderate income residents, public spaces, and facilities to preserve and protect the historic character of the Third Ward.

However, our interests extend far beyond low-income housing, and include strengthening, sustaining and celebrating the life of the Third Ward community. Row House CDC’s target area is the northern section of Third Ward which is bounded by McGowen on the north, Alabama on the south, Scott on the east and Hwy 288 on the west.

The 74-acre district was developed in 1993 as a classical small-scale residential neighborhood, with a grid pattern of 35 blocks served by four major thoroughfares. Civic institutions own about 50% of the area land (38 of 74 acres) and include Riverside General Hospital, Ryan Middle School, Blackshear Elementary, numerous churches, Project Row Houses, and Row House CDC.

The remaining 220 lots are used for housing, small retail shops, or are vacant. Residential development includes classic bungalow architecture featuring pier and beam foundations, front porches, and clapboard siding.

The neighborhood includes major institutions, shops and stores; an indigenous musical heritage; churches, schools, parks; and a mix of historic homes, many of which are in the African-American “shotgun” style originally developed by freed slaves (and their descendants) over 100 years ago.

Row House CDC envisions creating a careful blend of homes, including restored historic residences and architecturally compatible new structures offered for rent and for sale. The community will be woven together with streetscape promenades and greenway pedestrian paths to identify and reinforce the historic and artistic character.

The Row House District will showcase the creative arts and a broad array of cultural and social programs. Working in tandem with current residents, institutional stakeholders, and philanthropies, Row House CDC will preserve and enhance the spirited character of this unique Houston neighborhood.
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