Residents react to plans to build luxury apartments in abandoned terrain at the Renaissance hospital, pointing out security and communication problems.
Groves, Texas – A plan to build new luxury apartments in the site of the Renaissance Hospital in Groves, abandoned long ago, has raised reactions found among residents: some welcome growth with satisfaction and others pose security problems.
The neighbors gathered near the old hospital, on the corner of 39th Street with West Parkway, to express their opinions at a community meeting he attended, by surprise, the mayor.
Some residents said they felt surprised by the decision and were upset by the lack of prior notification by the city.
“Everyone supports the money that could reach Groves. That’s fine, but there is a security element,” said Beth Villanez, resident of Groves. “Most people have been living here for years, some probably 40 or 50 years. Nobody wants to think about moving because they no longer feel safe in what was originally a very safe area.”
The Municipal Council of Groves approved the Apartment project earlier this month. However, the councilor who represented the neighborhood was absent during the vote. According to the city manager, Kevin Carruth, the city had no choice but to act quickly.
“The problem with development issues is that the Texas Legislature has put a time clock,” said Carruth. “Once that clock starts to run, we have no option to do anything to pause or stop it. We have to act, so if someone is not there, we can’t say, wait. “
Although some residents expressed concern, others supported the project, stating that it would contribute a very necessary revitalization to the area.
“I live in Franklin. I think it’s good for the community, good for taxes, and good for everyone, more places to live,” said Michael Tweedle, resident of Groves.
City officials said that development generated by development will help finance critical infrastructure projects, including street repairs, drainage and wastewater management.
“Any infrastructure that fails and on which all citizens depend is something that I think, with any additional income, we would focus,” said Chris Borne, Alcade of the city of Groves.
After listening to complaints about the lack of communication, the municipal government announced plans to update the city’s website and allow residents to register to receive notifications on important changes and novelties.
The old hospital has been empty for more than a decade and, although its future is already determined, the community is still divided on whether the change will bring progress or new problems.
