The Freedmen’s Town/Fourth Ward Master Plan emphasizes the uniqueness of this community as its guiding principle, utilizing its rich history as a framework, and explores viable options to aid in developing strong approaches to promote economic growth in the Fourth Ward. It focuses on different strategies to aid the Fourth Ward’s community in achieving stabilization, and promotes the expansion of green shared spaces to benefit public health. Two conceptual plans were presented to the community stakeholders at gatherings in the neighborhood. The Reunification Plan provided a stronger connection to pedestrian access and historic preservation. The Black Commons Plan provided a greater connection to the economic growth of the community. Previously completed master plans lacked a deep cultural connection to the roots of Freedmen’s Town/Fourth Ward. When weighing options, the community felt strong about merging the best ideas between both plans, and synthesized to the Freedmen’s Town/Fourth Ward Plan. The stakeholders felt the economic growth enhancements are equal in importance to cultural, historical and environmental growth in the community.

The Contemporary Museum of Houston (CAMH) and the Houston Freedmen’s Town Conservancy (HFTC) joined as a team and received a Mellon Foundation Grant to start the work for the Freedmen’s Town/Fourth Ward Master Plan. They connected with local community members involved in education, faith based, non-profits, and community organizations. The City of Houston along side this effort acquired funds to finance a Design Concept Report that focused on the renovation of Andrews and Wilson streets in Freedmen’s Town/Fourth Ward. They simultaneously joined their efforts with CAMH and HFTC with another group of designers. Charonda Johnson, a long-standing resident, was the liason between CAMH, HFTC, COH and the community members.

“We honor the legacy of those who came before us, who built this community, and created a thriving hub of activity, culture, and progress. This project is a living example of the power of community led initiatives and collaborative efforts between legacy residents, local organizations, artists, and city government. We recognize the importance of this neighborhood as a testament to the strength and resilience of African American families and communities. We’re so proud to be a part of this journey and look forward to continuing to work together to build a brighter future for Freedmen’s Town.”

—Charonda Johnson.

Client

Contemporary Arts Museum of Houston (CAMH) & Houston Freedmen’s Town Conservancy (HFTC)

Project Team

Landscape Architect - Designer I DesignJones LLC

Project Status

Complete 2025

Size

60 Acres

Award

TX ASLA Merit Award 2025 I Planning and Analysis