Pearland greenlights Orchard at Lower Kirby, a new 122-acre mixed-use development

A new 122-acre development was recently approved by the Pearland City Council. Here’s what you need to know.

A new 122-acre mixed-use development recently received approval from the Pearland City Council in March. The Orchard at Lower Kirby, as it’s set to be called, will be located near Hwy. 288 and Beltway 8. The massive project was proposed as a way to bolster the local economy and encourage residents of the suburb, as well as greater Houston, to flock to Pearland for all of its dining, entertaining, and shopping needs. Pearland’s City Manager, Trent Epperson, said, “We’re excited to see a high‑quality development like The Orchard move forward, bringing new spaces for our community to enjoy. This project reflects Pearland’s commitment to creating inviting destinations where people can gather, connect, and experience something special close to home.”

The zoning change required to approve the development’s construction—which was referred to as the Gateway to Pearland in previous paperwork—received unanimous support from city council members. Planned Community Developers, a company based in nearby Sugar Land, made the initial request. It’s unclear as of writing when construction is set to begin or reach completion on The Orchard.

What will the new development include?

When it’s eventually constructed and ready to welcome locals and visitors, The Orchard at Lower Kirby will serve several key functions for the surrounding community. It will comprise three specific districts, including a mixed-use waterfront entertainment area, a single-family, high-density residential area, and a mixed-use commercial district. Within the residential area there will be single-family and multifamily residential spaces (likely apartment buildings and homes). In terms of the waterfront entertainment district, the proposal includes family-friendly community spaces dotted throughout the walkable area, as well as retail stores and restaurants. The mixed-used commercial district is set to include a conference center and a hotel.

While some residents expressed displeasure and concern over the development’s announcement on Facebook, the CEO of Planned Community Developers, Don Janssen, gently reminded city councilors that “Pearland is not the same place that it was in 2007.” The world is constantly growing, changing, and developing, and Janssen believes that the creation of The Orchard will help Pearland and its residents to rise along with the tide. The President of Pearland Economic Development Corporation, Matt Buchanan, agreed with this sentiment in an email sent to Chron.

Buchanan wrote, “The Orchard represents the type of thoughtful development that strengthens Pearland’s sense of place. The development aligns with our community’s economic development strategic plan, the Pearland Prosperity Plan, by adding new experiences and places to gather. It supports our long‑term vision for a more connected, vibrant community.”