College Station is developing a plan to renovate the stretch of Harvey Road between Highway 6 and Texas Avenue, with local businesses weighing in as the project advances.
The Harvey District is divided into four sections: Post Oak Hub, Oakside, Trailside and Texas Hub. The first phase began in May and was created to address challenges in each area and identify possible improvements.
Some business owners were initially concerned about the plan. Jason Carter, owner of Gumby’s, said he worried the project could disrupt operations, based on his experience with the Medians. After attending plan meetings, Carter said he believes community sentiment has generally been favorable but that city officials may need to reconsider which improvements receive priority.
He said discussions about walking and biking paths may not address what he views as larger concerns in the district.
The plan is now in its second phase, which includes surveys, workshops and feedback from students. Christopher Martinez, owner of Feral Fitness near the mall, said changes could help increase activity in the area. He pointed to the addition of stores that could attract visitors, including Dave and Buster’s as an example of a possible way to bring more people to the mall.
