Kingwood – a suburban community known as “The Livable Forest – is a charming community with lush green spaces and serene surroundings. Located in the northeastern part of Houston, it’s just a stone’s throw away from the city’s bustling heart.
But how did this beautiful area come to be? Let’s explore Kingwood’s history, exploring its origins, the vision behind its development, and the unique features that make it such a special place to live.
History of Kingwood
It all started with the Foster Lumber Company, which owned a significant tract of land that would eventually become Kingwood. The Foster family had held onto this land since around 1892. Fast-forward to December 28, 1967, and the land changed hands in a big way. It was sold to a joint venture between King Ranch and the Friendswood Development Company, an Exxon subsidiary.
Visionary Development
Exxon’s Friendswood Development Company had a vision for this land. They brought in John Bruton Jr. as the Operations Manager, entrusting him with planning, development, engineering, and construction of what would become Kingwood. The plans were ambitious and community-focused, including greenbelts, shopping centers, schools, churches, recreational facilities, riding and hiking trails, and even a boat ramp with access to Lake Houston.
Early Expansion and Slogan
During the 1960s, the City of Houston annexed parts of the land that would become Kingwood, only to dis-annex them by the late 1970s, leaving these areas unincorporated once again. Kingwood officially sprang to life in 1970, with its first village opening in 1971. From the very beginning, Kingwood proudly carried the slogan “The Livable Forest.”
Rapid Growth
By 1976, Kingwood had grown to host a few thousand residents. The community saw explosive growth between 1980 and 1990, with its population increasing by 40 to 70 percent. By 1990, Kingwood had 19,443 residents and 204 businesses, which swelled to 37,397 by 1992. By 2005, the population had reached roughly 65,000, with nearly 200,000 people living within a ten-mile radius.
The Controversial Annexation
Then came a significant change in 1994, when the City of Houston began the process of annexing Kingwood. According to Texas state law at the time, a home-rule city could annex an unincorporated area within its extraterritorial jurisdiction without the residents’ consent. Houston’s Mayor Bob Lanier saw this as a financial boon, expecting a $4 million annual gain from Kingwood’s annexation.
Despite fierce opposition from Kingwood residents, including a federal lawsuit and an offer to pay the city to avoid annexation, the process went ahead. On December 31, 1996, at 11:59 PM, Houston officially annexed Kingwood, adding about 15,000 acres to the city limits.
Aftermath and Changes in Law
The annexation battle left a lasting impact. Residents were concerned that Houston wouldn’t provide the same level of services to Kingwood as it did to other areas. In fact, many Kingwood residents felt that their fears had come true in the years following annexation. Complaints about high utility rates and insufficient emergency services were common. Many felt that Kingwood had lost its identity as a suburban haven, a sentiment that persisted a decade later.
However, the annexation did lead to changes in state law. In 1999, the Texas Legislature passed amendments requiring annexing cities to create service plans and allowing for public comment over three years before annexation. These changes, while beneficial for future communities, didn’t affect Kingwood’s situation.
Challenges in Recent Years
Kingwood has had its share of ups and downs. In 1999, a series of robberies by four teenage girls from Kingwood inspired the film “Sugar & Spice.” More recently, in 2017, Kingwood was severely impacted by Hurricane Harvey, resulting in evacuations and severe flooding. The San Jacinto River Authority’s decision to open floodgates worsened the situation, which exacerbated the flooding.
Community Features
One of the most enchanting aspects of Kingwood is its abundance of parks, green spaces, and community amenities. The planners of Kingwood had a vision to create not just a place to live but a community that harmonizes with nature, and they succeeded beautifully.
Parks and Green Spaces
Kingwood is often referred to as “The Livable Forest,” and it’s easy to see why. The community is interwoven with over 500 acres of parks and green spaces, ensuring that nature is never more than a short walk away. One of the crown jewels is East End Park, a 158-acre sanctuary that offers residents a peaceful retreat with its hiking and biking trails, bird-watching opportunities, and scenic views of Lake Houston.
Another beloved spot is River Grove Park, which sits along the banks of the San Jacinto River. This park is a favorite for its boat ramp, picnic areas, and sports fields. Families often gather here for weekend outings, enjoying the serene setting and the chance to connect with nature.
Deer Ridge Park is perfect for sports enthusiasts. It boasts facilities for baseball, soccer, and tennis, as well as a playground for the kids. It’s a vibrant hub of activity where neighbors come together to cheer on local teams or enjoy a casual game.
For those who love a more rugged outdoor experience, The Greenbelt Trails offer over 75 miles of paved pathways winding through forests and along creeks. These trails are perfect for jogging, biking, or a leisurely stroll. As one resident, Jane Thompson, fondly puts it, “The greenbelt trails are like the veins of Kingwood, connecting us all through the beauty of nature.”
Community Amenities
Kingwood isn’t just about parks and trails; it also boasts a wide array of community amenities designed to enhance the quality of life for its residents. There are several shopping centers, such as Kingwood Town Center, which hosts a variety of shops, restaurants, and seasonal community events. This bustling area is the heart of Kingwood’s social life, where people gather for festivals, farmers’ markets, and outdoor concerts.
Education is a cornerstone of the community, with numerous highly-rated schools serving the area. Kingwood High School, known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular activities, has been a pillar of the community since it opened.
Recreational facilities abound in Kingwood. The Kingwood Country Club offers golf enthusiasts access to 90 holes of championship golf, along with tennis courts, a fitness center, and dining facilities. It’s a place where families can relax, play, and create lasting memories.
The community is also rich in cultural and historical heritage. The Kingwood Community Center provides a space for arts and cultural events, bringing together artists, musicians, and performers from around the area. As local historian Robert Baker notes, “Kingwood has always been a place that values its natural beauty and cultural vibrancy.”
Conclusion
With its rich history, abundant green spaces, and vibrant community, Kingwood truly lives up to its name as “The Livable Forest.” This master-planned community is a beloved haven for those who call it home and for visitors who’d like to explore its trails, enjoy a festival, or simply take in its serene surroundings – Kingwood’s allure is undeniable.
