Why Texas Rainbow Fund Supports Housing on Center Street
Support our petition: https://c.org/Gz7M2YxkmX
Houston is changing, and for many LGBTQ+ Houstonians, that change determines whether they can afford to live in the city at all.
For young professionals, creatives, service workers, and many others in our community, the reality is simple: the only way to live in central Houston is in higher-density, mixed-use neighborhoods. These are the places where housing is attainable, where transportation is accessible, and where daily life does not depend entirely on owning and maintaining a car.
The proposed residential development on Center Street represents exactly that kind of opportunity.
This location is uniquely positioned to support an inclusive, connected, and accessible way of living. It is located near essential services, including H-E-B, and just steps from the White Oak Bayou Greenway — an 18-mile continuous trail that connects neighborhoods across Houston and provides safe space for walking, biking, and recreation.
Public transportation access is exceptional. METRO Bus Route 85 serves the corridor directly, and Route 40 provides a fast, direct connection to Montrose — one of Houston’s most important LGBTQ+ cultural centers — in approximately 10 minutes.
This level of connectivity matters. It allows residents to access jobs, community spaces, healthcare, and social networks without being forced into long, expensive commutes.
For many LGBTQ+ Houstonians, this kind of access is not a luxury. It is what makes living in the city possible.
Housing Access Is LGBTQ+ Equity
Historically, LGBTQ+ communities have depended on dense, walkable neighborhoods. These environments provide safety, visibility, and connection. They allow people to build community and support systems.
When housing supply is restricted in these areas, prices rise — and the people most affected are those without generational wealth or financial safety nets.
Blocking housing in central neighborhoods does not preserve community. It restricts access to it.
It ensures that only the most privileged can afford to live near opportunity.
Houston’s Future Cannot Be Frozen in the Past
A small number of neighbors should not be allowed to dictate the future of Houston for the next 40 years.
Cities evolve. They must evolve to remain accessible, inclusive, and economically vibrant.
The next generation of Houstonians — including LGBTQ+ residents — deserve the opportunity to live in neighborhoods that are connected, walkable, and full of life.
This is not about removing community. It is about ensuring that community remains open to others.
Walkability is not a threat. It is the foundation of safer, healthier, and more inclusive neighborhoods.
Why Texas Rainbow Fund Is Supporting This Campaign
Texas Rainbow Fund believes that safer streets, accessible housing, and connected neighborhoods are essential to building a more inclusive Houston.
Supporting responsible housing development near transit, trails, and essential services aligns with our mission to create safer, more visible, and more connected public spaces.
This development represents an opportunity to strengthen Houston’s future — not restrict it.
Take Action
Your voice matters in shaping the future of Houston’s neighborhoods.
Sign the Support Petition
Send a Comment to the Planning Commission
Email: speakercomments.pc@houstontx.gov
Subject: Support Variance 25099661
Message:
“I support Variance Request 25099661 at Center Street to allow responsible housing and walkable neighborhood development.”
Attend the Planning Commission hearing:
Thursday, February 19
2:30 PM
City Hall Annex
900 Bagby St
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