City of Richmond

Richmond, TX — Rich in History, Ripe for Growth

Taking a stroll down Morton Street, the center of Richmond’s historic district, is like stepping into the past. Just a stone’s throw from the banks of the Brazos, the century-old buildings and structures are well preserved, and its quaint storefronts remind you of a time gone by. But, most importantly, it’s rich with good-old fashioned Texas hospitality. All it takes is to walk into any one of the shops, businesses or restaurants and you will be greeted — warmly and with a heartfelt smile.  Equally exciting is what’s taking place just a short distance from downtown. There’s a new energy … driven by developers and businesses that have chosen Richmond to be their new home. Being located so close to I-69, and just 30 minutes from Houston, this small town and all of its charm has caught the eye of commercial developers, retailers, and home builders. Yes, life is good in Richmond, Texas — a town rich in history and ripe for growth.

Preserving our Past

What makes Richmond so unique is how it’s so historically bound to the Texas history. Founded in 1837, it is the county seat of Fort Bend County. Evidence of the first Texas pioneers is everywhere. George Ranch Historical Park, complete with historic buildings, and period reenactments, has become a popular destination point for seekers of Texas history. The Ranch is part of the George Foundation, established by A.P. and Mamie George. This foundation continues to play a key role in promoting Richmond’s development. Other historical landmarks, such as the recently renovated Fort Bend County Court House, Moore House, Jane Long’s cottage, Morton Cemetery, and the old Richmond Police Department, offer a unique insight to early Texas history for kids and adults alike.

Investing In The Future

With a new City Commission and a new Home Rule Charter, Richmond is building upon its rich history and promoting the geographic and economic benefits of making Richmond a home to new businesses and residential communities.

 Infrastructure Improvements Will Make Richmond More Accessible
The expansion of I-69 will create access to more than 500 acres of undeveloped land.  The extension of 10th street, north of downtown, will tie into Hwy 359 and not only provide easier access to Richmond, it will create opportunities for more development and business growth along this new route.The construction of a new surface water treatment plant brings new sources of water to support this growth.

       Making Higher Learning More Convenient
Texas State Technical College is building a new campus along I-69.
Wharton County Junior College is considering the expansion of its campus.
A recent Lamar CISD bond issue is creating new schools and making improvements to existing campuses, including a new natatorium.

       Existing Businesses are Booming and Expanding
The Oak Bend Medical Group continues to respond to the County’s growth by building new specialty hospitals and provide more services to support the community.

The Del Webb Sweetgrass community continues to attract “active adults” and is one of the fastest growing subdivisions in the County. This is driven by easy access to I-69, and nearby shopping, dining, and medical facilities.
Johnson Development is adding another master-planned community in Richmond with the Veranda emerging along Williams Way east of Jane Long Farms.

Developers, Retailers and Home Builders Attracted to Richmond’s Quality of Living Standard

With all of the infrastructure expansion going on near Richmond, City officials are finding it easier to attract new developers and businesses, but are careful to make sure it fits Richmond’s future growth model. Retailers and restaurants must be family friendly and businesses should be somewhat unique and service oriented. Helping this effort are several new tracts of land that have been released for commercial development, through the George Foundation, Henderson-Wessendorff Foundation, and other property owners along key corridors of the City.
The new RiverPoint Center has added both living and shopping opportunities, plus Rudy’s BBQ, Freddy’s Frozen Custard, Taco Bell, El Rancho Mexican Restaurant and a Hilton Home2 Suites.

Williams Crossing will soon feature a new Marriott Fairfield Inn, office building and more restaurant options.
The George Foundation’s has chosen one of Houston’s premier mixed-use developers to develop their 300-acre site at I-69/FM- 762 — brings one of the region’s top developers to Richmond.

The Veranda, Johnson Development’s latest master-planned community, will bring over 2,500 new, higher income housing opportunities to Richmond, plus many new amenities.

Across the street from the Veranda is the emerging Long Acres Ranch, a 750+ acre EcoTourism venue being managed by the TAMU AgriLife Extension.

Several boutique companies are expanding and relocating to the Richmond Historic District including Dr. Mazza, Concierge Medicine & Wellness, Catalyst Restaurant Group, The Kombucha Company, Fort Bend Coffee Roasters, Blockhouse Coffee Kitchen, The Trough Juice Bar and others.

Staying in Tune with its Past and Embracing the Future

More development, combined with addition of new businesses and residential communities will help promote and grow Richmond’s historic district. Plans are in place for more building renovation and adding new historic attractions. Upscale boutiques and shops continue to occupy the old buildings along Morton Street and are reenergizing the area. After all, it is Richmond’s past that is driving our future. So, the next time you’re in the area, take a moment to visit. You’ll find Richmond warm, welcoming and on the cusp of tremendous growth.  And, we want you to be a part of it!

*****Recently, Chet Garner of Daytripper was in Richmond to learn more about its rich history starting with the Historic District, Joseph’s Cigar Shop, Fort Bend Museum and the world famous George Ranch Historical Park.  Check out Chet Garner’s blog, Daytripper Richmond.