pedestrian friendly

Fort Bend's new 'car free' neighborhood breaks ground on community center

Houston's "car less" community breaks ground on community center

The Filling Station will be the welcome center and neighborhood meetup in Indigo

Courtesy of CulitvateLAND

Indigo, the first of the Houston area’s “car-free” communities, is breaking ground on The Filling Station, which will serve as the neighborhood’s central gathering place.

“The start of construction at The Filling Station signifies a major milestone in Indigo’s narrative,” said Clayton Garrett, partner at Meristem Communities. “The neighborhood we originally envisioned is taking shape and the small businesses we’re looking come to Indigo Commons will play a pivotal role in the development of Indigo’s identity, creating new energy and engagement. There is much more to come too, as Indigo is expected to be a home for a well-curated selection of retailers.”

The Filling Station will be central hub in the commons area. It will contain a general store as well as food options, According to consumer data the company is using, the amenities that residents most often request are coffee and food options withing walking distance. The Filling Station will offer these, as well as serve as the unofficial meet-up location for visitors and a gathering spot for residents.

Food for sale in the location will include fresh produce from Indigo’s on-site farm as well as grocery staples, beer and wine, and grab-and-go meals.

What sets Indigo apart from other housing developments is a focus on pedestrians rather than cars. The 261-home neighborhood will offer walking paths, a focus on green spaces, a working farm and pasture, and the aforementioned Commons, which includes 12 acres of community space. Cars are prohibited from some roads and paths, allowing people to walk freely without fear of an accident.

Homes are being designed by David Weekley Homes, Empire Communities, and Highland Homes and will be offered in a variety of styles. From single family ranch houses to townhome clusters, the goal is to have a diverse set of residents.

Starting in June 2024, Indigo will begin hosting community and homebuying events at the Indigo Farm. The Filling Station will be open in late 2024, and homes go on sale this summer. For more information, visit IndigoCommunity.com.

HAUTE PROPERTIES

675-acre Hill Country ranch where George Strait rehearsed lists for $19.5M

Photo by Michelle Watson CultureMapSnap

George Strait developed his early sound at Lone Woman Ranch.

Lone Woman Ranch, the Hill Country estate where country stars like George Strait, George Jones, and Ace in the Hole Band rehearsed, is up for sale for $19.5 million.

Located 65 miles from San Antonio in Hays County on 675 acres, the secluded ranch once served as an artistic getaway for emerging Texas artists. The property, listed by Olmos Park firm Republic Ranches. is named after the nearby Lone Woman Mountain, and its elevation gives an incredible view of the county. On a clear day, you can see downtown Austin.

The land comes with two residences, both built near the entrance gate. The primary stone house has original hardwood floors, a recently remodeled kitchen and bathrooms, as well as a new HVAC system. The secondary residence was used as a rehearsal space. Both have had long-term residents who made improvements, and both have their own septic systems, wells, and electric meters.

The real appeal of Lone Woman Ranch, however, is the extensive woods, creeks, and natural setting. It is next to 6,000 acres of conservation land, including Storm Ranch. The entire mountain is also included in the property, making it a veritable mini-kingdom for the owner with unobstructed privacy on three sides.

Two ponds are on the site — a 4-acre and a 1-acre — both fully stocked. Runoff from the larger pond creates picturesque seasonal limestone waterfalls.The surrounding woods are full of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, turkeys, doves, and more. The property is under wildlife exemption.

It's little wonder the ranch was a muse to so many country musicians. A network of ranch roads provides access throughout the property, including most of the way up Lone Woman, giving views around every corner. Only Strait can tell you whether his 1996 hit "King of the Mountain" was inspired by the ranch.

Photo by Michelle Watson CultureMapSnap

George Strait developed his early sound at Lone Woman Ranch.