CULLEN PARK TRAIL

The Houston Parks Board is pleased to partner with the Energy Corridor District to build a hike and bike trail connection from Cullen Park to George Bush Park on Houston's west side. The Eneryg Corridor District has focused on creating trails to connect existing parks and greenspaces with bussinesses and neighborhoods. A new 4-mile asphalt trail was recently completed along Barker Dam from Briar Forest to the Precinct 3 Sport Park near Barker Cypress Road . The Energy Corridor District partnered with the US Army Corps of Engineers, Harris County Precinct 3 and area interests to link Bush Park's trail to surrounding neighborhoods and Terry Hershey Park and Hike and Bike Trails.

Benefits of Connection

• Connects 17+ mile George Bush/Terry Hershey trail system to the 7+ mile Cullen/Bear Creek/Mayde Creek trails
• Trail link across I-10 at Barker Cypress via new pedestrian friendly underpass
• Provides residents north & west of I-10 & Barker Cypress a commuting bikeway to Park 10, Energy Corridor, Westchase & the Enclave business areas
• Access to Pct. #3 Sport Park SE of Barker Cypress & I-10 intersection
• Creates ~25 mile spine, plus ~12 miles of spur trails in huge west Houston off-road paved trail network - Over 37 miles of connected  off-road paved trails
• Improved property values for homeowners & increased tax base for taxing entities
• Safe off-road pathway to Mayde Creek Jr. & Sr. High Schools for residents south & east of Cullen Park
• Barker’s Ridge pathway to Schmalz Elementary for walking/biking to school
• Additional future connections:
  • Brays Bayou to Univ. of Houston (off of Terry Hershey Robin Trail)
  • West of Fry Road along Mayde Creek

Property Value Impacts

“The real estate market consistently demonstrates that many people are willing to pay a larger amount for property located close to parks or open spaces…”

John L. Compton, Texas A&M, 2000, Review of 25 studies

50% of respondents would pay 10% more for a house located near a park or other protected open space.  57% said if they were buying a home, they would be more likely to select one if it was close to parks or open space.

National Association of Realtors 2001 Study

Walking & biking paths ranked 3rd among 39 features identified by homebuyers as crucial factors in home buying decisions.

1994 American Lives Study

57% felt that living near a trail would make their homes easier to sell.

The Effect of Greenways on Property Values and Public Safety

Study showed that two identical properties (one near a trail & the other not), the property near the trail has a significantly reduced time on the market.

1994 Maryland Department of Natural Resources Study

“…plus there are lots of biking trails that my kids can get around on with their bikes.”

Carol Hazel, New Cinco Resident, Houston Chronicle quote on 10/21/2006 on reasons for buying in the Cinco area.