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News Houston

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Greater Houston Forecasts Slower Employment Growth
The Greater Houston Partnership’s mid-year economic forecast revised 2024 job growth projections downward to 55,000 new positions, a significant drop from earlier predictions. Analysts cited a "plateau" in oil and gas hiring despite high prices, as companies focus on shareholder returns over expansion, and slower-than-expected growth in non-energy sectors trying to fill the gap.

Top News Event: Major Chemical Fire at Deer Park Facility

A significant fire erupted at the Shell Chemical Plant in Deer Park, sending a large plume of black smoke over the Houston Ship Channel. Mandatory shelter-in-place orders were issued for surrounding areas as emergency crews battled the blaze for over 12 hours. No serious injuries were reported, but the incident has renewed scrutiny over industrial safety and air quality monitoring in the region.

The Menil Collection Announces Major Gift Plan for its Cy Twombly Gallery

The Menil Collection announced a landmark $50 million gift from a Houston-based foundation to endow and expand its renowned Cy Twombly Gallery. The plans include the creation of a new study center dedicated to Twombly's work and archives, solidifying Houston’s status as the global epicenter for scholarship on the late artist.

Houston-based "Rails" Luxury Apparel Brand Acquired by Major Global Conglomerate

Rails, the high-end apparel brand known for its soft button-down shirts, founded in Houston, was acquired by the fashion conglomerate WHP Global for an undisclosed sum (estimated near $700 million). The deal highlights Houston's quiet role as a launchpad for globally successful lifestyle brands, with founders stating their headquarters will remain in the city.

Houston Leads Nation in Construction Job Gains, But Wages Lag Behind Inflation

The Associated General Contractors of America reported that the Houston metro area added more construction jobs in the past year than any other U.S. city. However, a parallel analysis by a local workers' advocacy group found that average hourly wages in the sector have not kept pace with Houston’s inflation, leading to a decline in real earnings despite the boom.

Real Estate Market: "Flight to Quality" Accelerates as Downtown Houston Office Vacancy Hits Record 31%

A CBRE report shows the overall office vacancy rate in downtown Houston has climbed to a record 31%. However, a stark divide is emerging: Class A (trophy) spaces are seeing stable occupancy, while vacancies in older Class B and C buildings are skyrocketing past 40%, a trend dubbed the "flight to quality" that is pressuring building owners to convert or demolish older towers.

Electric Vehicle Adoption Slows Dramatically in Houston, Hybrids

from Texas' DMV and local dealer associations shows new EV registrations in Harris County grew by only 4% in Q1 2024, a dramatic slowdown from 65% growth the previous year. Conversely, hybrid vehicle sales surged by 48%, as Houston consumers cite range anxiety, high insurance costs, and a preference for the flexibility of hybrids in a sprawling city with extreme weather.

Infrastructure: METRO Unveils Ambitious, $7.5B "NextGen" Plan for Expanded Light Rail and Bus Rapid Transit

METRO's board unanimously approved the draft "NextGen" long-range plan, which includes a proposed $7.5 billion investment in new light rail lines to Hobby Airport, the Energy Corridor, and increased Bus Rapid Transit service across the region. The plan will now go to a public comment period, with funding mechanisms, including potential bond votes, yet to be determined.

Houston Astros vs. Detroit Tigers

When: Friday, May 10 - Sunday, May 12 (Series)

Where: Minute Maid ParkWhat: The Astros continue their homestand in a weekend series against an American League opponent.

Theater: Disney's The Lion King (Broadway Musical)

When: Runs May 8 - June 2

Where: The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

What: The awe-inspiring Broadway phenomenon returns to Houston with its stunning visuals and iconic music.

Music: Houston Symphony - "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone™ in Concert"

When: Saturday, May 11 & Sunday, May 12

Where: Jones Hall for the Performing Arts

What: The full film projected in HD while the Houston Symphony performs John Williams' magical score live.

Festival: Houston Greek Festival

When: Thursday, May 9 - Sunday, May 12

Where: Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral (Montrose)

What: Houston's premier celebration of Greek culture, featuring authentic food, live music and dance, cathedral tours, and a marketplace. A beloved annual tradition.

Cultural: Asia Society Texas: "Tales of the City: Drawing in the Netherlands from Bosch to Bruegel" Opening

When: Opens Friday, May 10 (Runs through August 4)

Where: Asia Society Texas Center

What: A major exhibition of rare Netherlandish drawings from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, exploring urban life and culture in the 16th century.

Theater: The Lehman Trilogy at the Alley Theatre

When: Runs now through May 26

Where: Alley Theatre

What: The epic, Tony-winning play spanning 164 years of American history through the saga of the Lehman brothers. A theatrical tour de force performed by a small, versatile cast.

Music: PJ Morton - "The Piano Tour"

When: Saturday, May 11

Where: Bayou Music Center

What: The Grammy-winning singer, songwriter, and member of Maroon 5 brings his intimate and powerful solo piano tour to Houston.

Food & Drink: Houston Barbecue Festival

When: Sunday, May 12

Where: Silver Street Stud (East Downtown)

What: The ultimate gathering for meat lovers, featuring samples from 25+ of Houston and Texas's top barbecue joints, all in one place.

Houston Dynamo vs. Sporting Kansas City (MLS Soccer)
When: Saturday, May 11, 7:30 PM
Where: Shell Energy Stadium
What: The Dynamo look to climb the Western Conference table in a home match against a competitor

Economics: GHP Forecasts Steady Growth for 2026

The Greater Houston Partnership (GHP) released its annual economic outlook, predicting the region will add 30,900 new jobs in 2026. While more moderate than previous years, the forecast suggests Houston will reach a record 3.5 million total jobs by year-end, driven by a resilient, diversified economy.

Science: Houston Biotech Firm Accelerates CannabissTUDY

On January 5, Houston-based Cannabis Bioscience International Holdings (CBIH) launched a national initiative to fast-track medical research. Following federal moves to reschedule cannabis, the company is aligning clinical standards to translate science into compliant pharmaceutical ways.

The Arts: Yo Soy La Tradición Debuts at the Hobby Center

The arts scene kicks off the year with a major performance by Grammy-winning saxophonist Miguel Zenón on January 10. Presented by Kinetic Ensemble and Aperio, the concert features a suite based on Puerto Rican traditions, marking a significant early-year milestone for Houston’s music community.

Healthcare to Drive Nearly 50% of New Hires

New job market confirms that healthcare and social assistance will be Houston's primary employment engines in 2026. Of the 30,900 projected new jobs, roughly 14,000 will be in the medical sector, fueled by an aging demographic and the continued expansion of the Texas Medical Center.

Real Estate: Predictions Call for Rising Inventory and Balanced Prices

Houston real estate experts predict that housing inventory will slowly rise throughout 2026. While high-demand neighborhoods like the Medical Center and Energy Corridor remain competitive, the market is shifting toward a more balanced state, offering buyers more choices than in previous years.

Used Car Prices Begin to Soften in the Southwest

According to January 5 market reports, used car prices in the Southwest (including Texas) are showing signs of relief. Used SUVs saw a significant price drop of over $700 recently, providing a more affordable entry point for Houston families as the market stabilizes.

Infrastructure: Resilient Sidewalks Plan Reaches Milestone

City officials highlighted the completion of the "Resilient Sidewalks Plan" for the Gulfton and Kashmere Gardens areas this week. The initiative aims to create a safer, more reliable pedestrian network as part of Houston’s broader urban renewal efforts for 2026.

Disney's Beauty and the Beast (Musical) – Hobby Center, Jan 6–18

Star Wars: Return of the Jedi in Concert (Symphony) – Jones Hall, Jan 9–10

Miguel Zenón: Yo Soy La Tradición (Jazz/Orchestral) – Hobby Center, Jan 10

Houston Rockets vs. Chicago Bulls (Faith & Family Night) – Toyota Center, Jan 13

D’est en Musique (From the East) (Film/Concert) – Hobby Center, Jan 16–17

Marin Alsop Conducts Brahms 2 (Classical) – Jones Hall, Jan 23–25

Economics: National Energy Services (NESR)

The Houston-headquartered National Energy Services Reunited Corp. (NESR) announced on January 5 that it will participate in several global energy summits this month to showcase its expansion in the Middle East. The move underscores Houston's continued role as a global command center for international energy services.

The Arts: Mix-MATCH Festival Announced for Midtown

The Midtown Arts & Theater Center Houston (MATCH) announced on January 5 that it will host the 3rd annual Mix-MATCH festival on January 17. The event will feature a diverse lineup of local performances and visual art installations, celebrating the city's independent creative scene.

Fashion: "Fashion 4 Ukraine" Collective Debuts in Houston

Footage from recent runway events in Houston, shared this week, showcased the Fashion 4 Ukraine Collective, featuring designers like Anna Ludaieva. The collection merges craftsmanship with cultural storytelling, marking a high point for international artistic impact in Houston's style scene.

Houston Set to Hit Record 3.5 Million Jobs by Year-End

While the hiring pace has moderated compared to the post-pandemic boom, the Greater Houston Partnership reported this week that the region is on track to reach a record 3.5 million jobs by the end of 2026. Health care and social assistance remain the most aggressive sectors for new hiring.

Real Estate: Suburban Expansion Accelerates in Katy and Pearland

A real estate forecast published on January 3 suggests that suburban growth in Katy, Pearland, and Cypress will outpace the city center in 2026. This is driven by new schools and master-planned communities attracting families who are prioritizing space over proximity to downtown.

Houston Auto Show Prepares for NRG Park Return

Organizers for the Houston Auto Show confirmed this week that the 43rd annual event will return to NRG Park on January 28. This year’s show is combined with the Houston Boat Show, offering a massive "all-in-one" experience for families looking to browse the latest 2026 vehicle models and watercraft.

UTHealth Houston Launches "Health Cost Clarity" Resource

In response to rising medical costs, UTHealth Houston announced on January 5 that it has become a primary resource for "health cost clarity." The initiative aims to provide patients with transparent pricing for common procedures, a move aimed at making healthcare more navigable for local residents.

ExxonMobil and Chevron Report Strong Q1 Profits, Detail Diverging Houston-Area Investment Strategies

Both energy giants reported robust first-quarter profits from their Houston headquarters. However, their capital expenditure plans reveal a strategic split: ExxonMobil emphasized investments in traditional oil and gas projects in the Permian Basin and Guyana, while Chevron highlighted its growing investments in lower-carbon businesses, including a major new geothermal pilot project in partnership with a Houston startup.

$2.1 Billion "State Highway 99 Logistics Corridor" Project Breaks Ground

A joint venture of national developers has broken ground on a massive, master-planned industrial park along the Grand Parkway (SH 99). The project, one of the largest of its kind in the country, is designed to capitalize on Houston's role as a national logistics hub, with space for mammoth distribution centers serving the region's growing population and port activity.

Coastal Barrier Project (Coastal Texas Program) Receives Critical Design Approval

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers granted its final "Chief's Report" approval for the $34 billion Coastal Texas Program, which includes the "Ike Dike" storm surge barrier across Galveston Bay. This critical milestone allows the project to advance toward congressional authorization for construction funding, a decades-long goal for regional hurricane protection.

Transportation: Metro’s New “University Line” BRT Faces Major Delay, Pushing Opening to 2028

METRO officials announced a significant, two-year delay for the completion of the University Line Bus Rapid Transit project. The 25-mile east-west route, connecting the Southwest Transit Center to the Eastwood Transit Center, is now projected to open in 2028. Officials cited complex utility relocation challenges and higher-than-expected construction costs as primary causes.

Arts Controversy: Controversial Mural in The Heights is Painted

A large mural on a popular restaurant in The Heights neighborhood, which some residents praised as vibrant and others criticized as visually disruptive and out of character, was abruptly painted over by the property owner. The action ended a months-long, heated public debate that had come before the Houston Archaeological and Historical Commission, highlighting tensions over neighborhood aesthetics and property rights.