Planning & Development
Community Meeting Scheduled for Proposed Lyons Avenue National Register of Historic Places Nomination
The City of Houston's Office of Preservation, in partnership with the Texas Historical Commission, invites residents, property owners, business owners, and community stakeholders to attend a public meeting regarding the proposed nomination of a historic section of Lyons Avenue to the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP).
Meeting Details
Date: Thursday, August 6, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: 5th Ward Multi-Service Center
4014 Market St., Houston, TX 77020
Please note: There will be no virtual attendance option for this meeting.
About the Project
Today, the City of Houston's Office of Preservation is working to protect and celebrate the rich history of the Fifth Ward. With support of a grant from the Texas Historical Commission, the City is proposing that a four-block stretch of Lyons Avenue be added to the National Register of Historic Places. This designation helps recognize, honor, and preserve the unique history of the Fifth Ward for future generations.
At this meeting, representatives from the Texas Historical Commission will present the proposed National Register of Historic Places nomination to community stakeholders, explain the nomination process, and answer questions about what the designation means for the corridor and surrounding community.
What Happens Next?
Community input is a key part of the nomination process. If stakeholders agree that the nomination should move forward, the proposal will be presented to the Texas Historical Commission for consideration during its September meeting in Amarillo.
We encourage everyone with an interest in preserving the history and legacy of Lyons Avenue and Houston's historic Fifth Ward to attend and participate in this important discussion.
Historic Preservation: Lyons Avenue
Preserving the History of Houston’s Fifth Ward:
Houston is one of the most diverse and fastest-growing cities in the country. Back in the 1800s, the city was divided into six areas called "wards." The Fifth Ward was officially created in 1866, shortly after the Civil War. It became home to many formerly enslaved African Americans and quickly grew, especially after the railroad was built. However, in 1912, a major fire damaged much of the area and slowed down its development.
Despite the setback, the Fifth Ward, and especially Lyons Avenue, bounced back and became a vibrant hub for Black life and culture. The neighborhood was full of Black-owned businesses like tailor shops, pharmacies, grocery stores (like the Louis White store), and the historic DeLuxe Theater. Lyons Avenue became the heart of the community.
Today, the City of Houston’s Office of Preservation is working to protect and celebrate that history. With support of a grant from the Texas Historical Commission, the City is proposing that a four-block stretch of Lyons Avenue be added to the National Register of Historic Places. This designation helps recognize, honor, and preserve the unique history of the Fifth Ward for future generations.
This project is being initiated by the City of Houston Office of Preservation in the Planning & Development Department which is funded in part through a Certified Local Government Grant from the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, as administered by the Texas Historical Commission.
Updated Schedule
Comment Form
Project Manager
Terrance D. Jackson
Project Manager
Planning and Development Dept.
City of Houston
T: 832.393.6621
E: terrance.jackson@houstontx.gov
P&D Office - 611 Walker
Contact P&D Dept
611 Walker, 6th Floor
Houston, TX 77002
Phone: 832.393.6600
planningdepartment@houstontx.gov
