Houston: Resilient Region

Throughout history, cities have flourished to the extent that they have been able to meet the challenges of urban expansion and nature. Houston represents a stunning case in point. Located far from the natural harbor, the city was forged, in large part, by the 1914 decision to build a ship channel that connects this bayou city with the Gulf, fifty miles away.

This is a three-part report on how Houston has met — and will meet — the challenges posed by Hurricane Harvey. Part One defines the city and region’s trajectory, and its fundamental resilience. The second part addresses Houston’s urban form, and how the right planning choices can provide some solutions to the problems of flooding. The third part lays out specific suggestions for balancing growth with environmental sustainability.

As leaders and policy makers address post-Harvey issues, we present the steps they can take to make Houston more resilient, while still allowing it to retain its character as a region of opportunity. We demonstrate how actions that raise housing costs will make the Houston region less competitive with other parts of Texas, and with the nation as a whole.

Click here to view and read the full report (PDF opens in new tab or window)