When developers attempted to convert a 200-acre defunct golf course in Houston into a commercial development, various groups coalesced with another idea: to turn the vast acreage into something more green and sustainable. Although this phased project is not yet complete, it has already proved its value by saving 400 houses during flooding caused by Hurricane Harvey.
The Clear Lake City Water Authority (CLCWA), which owns the property, first held five town hall community meetings to determine what other multipurpose ideas neighbors would suggest for the space. After narrowing down community responses, the decision was made to transform this massive parcel of land into Exploration Green, a storm retention system and recreational green space for 40,000 local residents.