November 2013 ballot?

Astrodome crumbles while Commissioners Court fumbles: Vote on landmark's futurelikely delayed

The Astrodome has long been vacant.
Photo by Jack Opatrany/Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau
A recent study recommends three options for the blighted, beloved landmark.

Despite the abundance of solutions recently posed for the future of the Astrodome, the blighted building's fate will likely not be decided by Houston voters in the upcoming November election.

As KHOU is reporting, the Harris County Commissioners convened on Tuesday for the court's last scheduled meeting before the Aug. 20 ballot deadline.

The agenda for that meeting made no mention of the dome that costs taxpayers $2 to $3 million each year to maintain in its current condition. Recent photos have revealed that state to be derelict.

Voters may have to wait until November 2013 to give the thumbs up or down to a bond issue on the Astrodome.

Recommendations from a May report consider converting the former home of the Oilers and Astros into a unique multipurpose facility (at a cost of $270.3 million) or erecting a replacement performance arena (at a cost of $385.4 million) or demolishing the building altogether for a Reliant Park Plaza (at a cost of $63.9 million).

In a June meeting, Judge Ed Emmett even suggested combining the two former options.

But the court seems to be dragging its feet when it comes to the Houston landmark, and commissioners are hesitant to commit to any one solution, given current economic circumstances and the great costs associated with each.

Voters may have to wait until November 2013 to give the thumbs up or down to a bond issue on the Astrodome. Let's see how many more studies we can commission — and how many other far-fetched options we can suggest — before then.

Watch KHOU's full report below.

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Houston architect's marvelous modern home hits the market for $6.75 million

Photo by TK Images for Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

311 Brown Saddle St is on the market for $6.75 million.

There’s a spot in Tanglewood, just north of Woodway Drive, where indoor and outdoor living blend seamlessly. It’s 311 Brown Saddle St., a six-bedroom, five-bath home that’s on the market for $6.75 million and represented by Walter Bering of Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty.

The home, presented as a thoughtful collaboration between owner and architect, Mauricio Vela, and Sims Luxury Builders, is designed for both grand entertaining and intimate family living.

Unfolding across more than 9,200 square feet, 311 Brown Saddle St. has light-filled interiors, soaring ceilings, and clean architectural lines that define the home’s open floor plan. Beginning with the dramatic entry to the living room, with its eye-catching, floating staircase and sweeping views, it’s obvious that this home was created to blend stunning details with elegant living.

The bespoke Eggersmann kitchen features Miele appliances, Italian ceramic floors, and a large island. All of it is sleekly designed, with blonde wood accents and clean lines. A glass-enclosed wine room nestled by the floating staircase is one of many first-floor focal points.

The first floor is also where the home’s primary suite is located. A true owner’s oasis, it offers serene backyard views, a giant closet, and a spa-like bath. Upstairs, spacious bedrooms and a light-filled family room provide comfort and style.

The home also features two studies, an elevator, and a large, air-conditioned attic with ample storage space.

Indoor and outdoor spaces blend seamlessly here. Located next to the living room and breakfast area, the patio features a summer kitchen, fireplace, and artfully lit surroundings. The space is anchored by a blue pool and spa. Mature trees and green lawns complete the feeling of seclusion.

Located near some of Houston’s major employment and entertainment hubs, this home will appeal to a wealthy family looking for modern living and a little extra privacy.

Photo by TK Images for Martha Turner Sotheby's International Realty

311 Brown Saddle St is on the market for $6.75 million.

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