Cultivating Community: The Future of The Park at Emancipation
Something special is brewing in Houston’s historic Third Ward. What currently sits as an empty lot with a storied past is about to become The Park at Emancipation—a vibrant community activation hub designed to spark long-term growth through smart, short-term action.
A Legacy of Strength
The site at the corner of Emancipation Avenue isn't just any plot of land; it was once the headquarters for Local 107 of the Black Postal Union. In an era when Black postal workers were excluded from white unions, they built their own home here. After years of navigating complex tax and title issues, our team acquired the property with a mission: to ensure this land continues to serve and benefit the neighborhood.
The Vision: Two Phases of Impact
We aren't just building a park; we are validating a future. Our strategy uses an "interim operating model" to create immediate value while we prepare for a permanent landmark.
Phase 1: The Activation (Next 2–5 Years): A dynamic space hosting 4 to 6 food trucks, covered seating, and community programming.
Phase 2: The Development: A 13,000-square-foot mixed-use, mixed-income building featuring retail, office spaces, and one-bedroom apartments.
Why Now?
The Third Ward is currently classified by the USDA as a food desert. By activating this space now, we fill a critical gap in food access while capitalizing on the area's massive potential. Located just a mile from Downtown and the Medical Center, and within walking distance of U of H and TSU, the site is perfectly positioned to serve a combined population of over 80,000 residents and students.
"This is more than a food truck park. It’s a small step to catalyze development in the area while we earn a return, drive impact, and provide a gap in service in this community."
An Invitation to Invest in Impact
We are looking for partners to help us bridge the gap. We are raising $80,000 in limited partner equity to fund site prep, utilities, and amenities.
The Investor Advantage:
Preferred Return: A 10% preferred return rate over a 3-to-5-year term.
First Right of Refusal: Investors get the first opportunity to convert their equity into Phase 2 of the permanent building.
Proven Model: By generating active consumer data now, we reduce the risk for the future mixed-use development.
Meet the Team
Jason Hyman: Leading leasing and owner operations.
Britney Hyman: Co-lead focusing on marketing, storytelling, and event programming.
Ryan Thomas: Co-lead managing construction, facilities, and site safety.
Join Us
The Park at Emancipation is where history meets opportunity. Whether you are a local neighbor looking for a "third place" to hang out or an investor looking for a high-impact project, we want to hear from you.
