Gateways Update: Placemaking Project Continues to Expand

The North Houston District will add new monument signage to its Gateways Program, adding two new installations to existing locations from earlier this year, and in 2024. Robert Fiederlein, the District’s Vice President of Planning and Infrastructure, recently shared the latest updates on the project. 

Two additional monument signs are planned for the North Houston District’s Gateways Program. By constructing eye-catching and aesthetically pleasing branded signs throughout the area and at major entrances to the North Houston District, the program aims to ensure residents, commuters, and visitors know that they’ve arrived when they enter the District.

The Gateways Program seeks to send a clear message of progress. Professionally designed, well-maintained gateways indicate that the area is actively cared for and is a hub of commercial activity.

Local business owners have received the Gateways Program favorably, enjoying the impact it has had on public perception of the area. “The well-kept, uniform appearance adds an established look and feel to the area, which is a draw for businesses, patrons, and residents alike,” says VP of Planning and Infrastructure at North Houston District, Robert Fiederlein.

“The well-kept, uniform appearance adds an established look and feel to the area, which is a draw for businesses, patrons, and residents alike,” says VP of Planning and Infrastructure at North Houston District, Robert Fiederlein.

Phase 6 Gateway Rendering

Phase 6: West Hardy Road & Beltway 8

The Phase 6 gateway will be located at West Hardy Road and Beltway 8, along the eastern edge of the North Houston District. This heavily traveled area serves as an entry point to the more industrial quadrant of the District, and features warehouses, and shipping and manufacturing facilities.

This location presented a unique challenge. Due to the large high-voltage transmission towers near where the sign would be placed, the gateway signage had to be set further back from the road than others located at Ella, Greens Crossing, and Northchase.

Lastly, the location required adjustments for safety, trimming shrubbery in the area that blocked the view of northbound traffic. The construction team left the shrubbery intact but trimmed it back, removing the visual obstacle for drivers. They then upgraded the existing irrigation system with a solar-powered controller so the shrubbery could remain as decorative landscaping around the sign.

The final result combines the classic design of the Gateway Program’s signs with seamless integration into the existing landscape. The gateway is currently under construction and will be completed mid to late November.

Map showing seven project phases across the North Houston District with numbered circles and street-level descriptions. Completed locations are marked in green, and upcoming projects are in orange.

North Houston Distict Gateway Program Map

Phase 7: Greens Road

The North Houston District already has plans in progress for Phase 7 of the Gateways Program. KW Landscape Architects is leading design, which is currently underway. This monument sign will be located on Greens Road just west of Hardy Toll Road, providing a welcoming sight for anyone entering the District traveling east to west.

With less space available, the planned Phase 7 gateway will be smaller than previous ones. However, it will retain the same style and aesthetics as the other gateways. It’s also expected that this smaller size will help reduce construction costs.

The gateways are constructed with corten steel walls, which are a highly durable material with a reddish-brown color that adds aesthetic appeal to landscaping and building exteriors.

Construction is scheduled to begin in spring 2026. Learn more about the Gateways Program here.

Phase 1 Gateway

Phase 1 Gateway

Phase 3 Gateway2

Phase 3 Gateway

A North Houston District monument sign is framed by lush greenery and mature oak trees. A modern glass office building and a road are visible in the background.

Phase 2 Gateway

Phase 4 Gateway

Phase 4 Gateway

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