After nearly two decades of passionate advocacy, the Brays Oaks Management District proudly welcomes a brand-new Starbucks at West Bellfort and Beltway 8—an exciting milestone that underscores the District’s commitment to fostering quality economic development in Southwest Houston. This long-awaited ribbon cutting is more than a simple store opening; it is a powerful reminder of the impact that collaboration, vision, and persistence can have on a community.
A Vision 18 Years in the Making
“We’re very excited that the Starbucks finally came to fruition after 18 years of a lot of work, pain, and a lot of blood, sweat, and tears,” says Sheri Cortez, Board Member of the Brays Oaks Management District and Chair of the Economic Development Committee.
For nearly a quarter century, a 25-year deed restriction prevented food or beverage businesses from developing on this property. Overcoming those restrictions required focused effort and cooperation between the District and its development partners. “Our biggest fear was that somebody would come in and develop it that wouldn’t give the community justice to what we deserve and what we need,” Cortez explains. “So we worked hand in hand with this developer from beginning to end to create this property and also to give it our namesake—Brays Oaks Crossing.”
Brays Oaks Crossing: A Collaborative Triumph
From the outset, the Brays Oaks Management District made sure the site would not only serve local needs but also reflect the spirit of the community. “We hope this is something that happens more in the future—that we work with developers to create something that the community wants, needs, and can benefit from,” adds Cortez.
This landmark Starbucks—officially located at [West Bellfort and Beltway 8, Houston, TX]—demonstrates just how pivotal effective partnerships can be. It is an example of the District’s model for future developments, where the community’s voice helps shape projects from planning to completion.
Welcoming a Major Brand to the District
Brandon Herndon, another Brays Oaks Management District Board Member, captured the day’s excitement by noting, “What a wonderful day to have another great brand join the district.” He believes attracting big-name businesses indicates the momentum building throughout the community: “It’s very important that we continue to have these kinds of great strategic partners in the district because it just gives the true economic development activity…that big companies will come and do things in our district.”
With Starbucks in place, Herndon looks forward to the potential expansion of other businesses in Brays Oaks, reinforcing the District’s overall mission of economic empowerment.
A Boost for District J and District K
City of Houston Council Member Edward Pollard (District J) expressed his enthusiasm at the ribbon cutting: “We’re on the borderline of District J and District K, and this is an amenity that is going to bring tremendous impact to our community. The Starbucks brand is synonymous with thriving communities. It’s synonymous with a good reputation, and those are the type of brands that we want within our neighborhoods.”
From Pollard’s perspective, Starbucks’ decision to open in Brays Oaks reflects growing confidence in the area. He hopes to see robust community support: “We believe this is a great location, something that will be a highlight for District J and District K, and I’m proud to have it in our community.”
A Place to Meet and Grow
For Etan Mirwis, Board Member and Chair of the Infrastructure Development Committee, the new Starbucks is more than a coffee shop—it’s a modern, convenient meeting space that can benefit local professionals. “It’s very exciting to have a state-of-the-art Starbucks in the Brays Oaks Management District,” Mirwis says. “As a businessman, it’s always nice to have a comfortable and convenient place to meet prospective clients and customers. I look forward to coming early and often.”
From hosting informal business chats to fueling busy entrepreneurs on the go, the Starbucks offers a welcoming environment that fosters connection in the heart of the District.
A Showcase of Community-Driven Progress
The success of this Starbucks project speaks to Brays Oaks Management District’s larger strategy: advocate for developments that meet local needs, work tirelessly to remove obstacles, and partner with businesses who share the vision of a vibrant and inclusive community.
By honoring the “Brays Oaks Crossing” name and collaborating deeply with stakeholders, the District has ensured that this new establishment embodies the very spirit of Brays Oaks—community-focused, future-oriented, and open to growth.
Visit the New Starbucks: Starbucks – Brays Oaks Crossing is located near West Bellfort & Beltway 8, Houston, TX. Learn more at www.starbucks.com and follow @Starbucks on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for updates and special offers. Drop by for your favorite beverage, meet friends or clients, and experience the growing vitality of Brays Oaks firsthand.
To learn more about the Brays Oaks Management District and its ongoing commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs and economic growth, visit www.braysoaksmd.org. This opening marks just the start of many more community-driven milestones to come.
