Famed Developer Honored with Houston Urban Park: “Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park” Unveiled

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

To honor his lifelong and unwavering commitment to the city of Houston and to recognize his impact in the international real estate market, Uptown Houston, with the support of Houston Mayor Bill White, officially named one of Houston’s most visited urban parks, the “Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park.” Gerald D. Hines is founder and chairman of Hines, a privately owned global real estate firm.

“Gerald Hines’ passion for green spaces has forever changed the landscape of cities around the world. His vision has helped Uptown Houston be what it is today, a vibrant and bustling market where people can live, work and play,” said John Breeding, president of the Uptown Houston District. “We are honoring Mr. Hines’ dedication to catapulting the city of Houston in the international scene by naming this iconic fountain and park in his honor.”

Gerald D. Hines’ vision for green spaces and urban parks played an integral role in the creation of the Hines Waterwall Park nearly 25 years ago. The 2.77 acre park features a Philip Johnson designed, 64-foot semi-circular architectural fountain that re-circulates 11,000 gallons of water per minute as they cascade down the structure’s inner and outer walls. The Hines Waterwall Park, surrounded by 186 live oak trees, has been and will continue to be the community centerpiece for Uptown Houston, the nation’s largest business district outside of a historic core.

“We are proud to name the Waterwall Park after someone who has been so important to the development of our great city,” said Mayor Bill White. “But Mr. Hines has done more than that; he has created a special place in the middle of a big city for people to gather and experience both architectural beauty and the great outdoors. This is something Houston will be forever grateful for.”

Previously, the property was privately owned by Hines, the developer, owner and manager of the adjacent Williams Tower (formerly Transco Tower). In December 2008, with the support of Mayor Bill White, the Uptown Houston Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) recognized the opportunity to preserve an important amenity and purchased the Waterwall and the adjacent 2.77 acre park for $8.5 million, a below-market price. This investment by Uptown Houston has made this landmark a public park and ensured its existence in Houston for years to come.

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