Independence Heights

Historical Destruction

First city incorporated by African Americans in the state of Texas
Lower Independence Heights is recognized in the National Registered Historical Districts for significance in U.S. History
Greater Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church with 130+ year history will be demolished

Destruction of Homes

La Vista Villa Apartments will be demolished, removing 54 units of 1BR, 2BR, and 3BR housing. Rental prices $599-2100.
Continual property acquisitions and rising land prices impede relocation within the community.
Displacement results in family separation, less density and loss of economic investment in the community.

Business Displacement

Lack of essential goods and services
Lower quality of life

Flooding

63.4% Of Independence Heights is in the 100 year flood plan.
Continued threats of flooding from Little White Oak Bayou.
Inadequate culvert installed in 1962 at I-45/I-10 interchange.

Student Health

Increased traffic means more pollutants that affect respiratory illnesses and exacerbate health problems.
Affect on academic success and livelihoods.

Pedestrians, Cyclists and Wheelchairs

Crossing I-45 will be more dangerous at Crosstimbers St and at Airline Dr. This will make it harder to access the stores at Northline Commons.
METRO bus routes #23, #26 and #56 will be impacted by their location on the access road.

Displacements include (from north to south)

Greater Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church