Overview

• The June 27 study analyzed 48 intersections around Polk Street and accounted for converting Leeland Street to two-way traffic and the I-45 North reconstruction, concluding most junctions will still operate at acceptable levels.
• Houston First CEO Michael Heckman said the findings underpin the $2 billion George R. Brown expansion and pave the way for a new pedestrian plaza linking downtown venues.
• People for Polk and East End residents say the analysis is too narrow, pointing out that it excludes effects on farther intersections, pedestrian detours, longer travel times and increased emissions.
• Houston City Council must vote to surrender two blocks of Polk Street between Hamilton Street and Avenida de las Américas before the closure slated for September or October can move forward.
• No firm timeline has been set for Leeland Street’s conversion to two-way, prompting concerns about a gap in east-west connectivity for motorists, cyclists and transit users.