about midtown

the history of midtown

From its earliest beginnings to the present, Midtown Houston has remained the heart of Houston.

In the early 20th century, Midtown became a bustling cultural hub featuring theaters, restaurants, and shops that drew Houstonians from  all corners of the city.

Midtown Houston has long played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s identity. Once part of the historic Third and Fourth Wards, the area was a thriving center for African American life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for its grand homes, vibrant businesses, and influential community leaders.

Following a period of mid-century decline, a grassroots coalition established the Midtown Redevelopment Authority (MRA) and Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone No. 2 (TIRZ) in 1992 to lead revitalization efforts. MRA continues to invest in critical infrastructure and public enhancements, advancing streetscapes, mobility, and urban design projects that support accessibility, sustainability, and livability.

The Midtown Management District (MMD) was created in 1999 to foster a clean, safe, and connected urban environment. Through proactive security measures and strategic partnerships, Midtown prioritizes the safety and well-being of residents, businesses, and visitors.

Midtown also champions economic growth and inclusivity by cultivating strong connections between businesses, residents, and stakeholders to create a vibrant, walkable district. Its rich cultural scene includes public art, live entertainment, and creative spaces, making it a hub for artistic expression.

To ensure quality of life, Midtown emphasizes consistent maintenance and cleanliness, keeping the district inviting and well-kept. The Midtown Parks Conservancy (MPC), founded in 2013, programs and maintains key green spaces such as Midtown Park and Bagby Park, offering lush parks and active recreation that enrich the community and promote sustainability.

want to know more?

Watch these informative videos on the History of Midtown:

our staff

The Midtown Houston staff handles the day-to-day operations of the Midtown Redevelopment Authority, Midtown Management District, and Midtown Parks Conservancy. Office hours are M-F 8:30am to 5pm.

Our doors are always open; however, to ensure uninterrupted, quality-time with our staff, we suggest calling ahead and making an appointment.

Matt Thibodeaux
Executive Director

Kandi Schramm
Administrative Manager

Sally Adame
Administrative Assistant

Cynthia Alvarado, CPM®
Director of Operations and Strategic Planning
Director Midtown Cultural Arts & Entertainment District

Ramiro Delgado
Maintenance Supervisor

Jaime Giraldo
Director of Public Safety

Jalisa Hurst
Office Assistant

Willie Larry
Maintenance Manager

Marlon Marshall
Sr. Director of Engineering & Strategic Development

Mechelle Phillips
Event Director + Programming Lead

Chrystal Davis
Operations Supervisor

Jeremy Rocha
Sr. Mgr. Engineering & Facilities

Amaris Salinas
Park Programming Manager

Sharita Simpo
Public Safety Administrative Coordinator

Steve Smith
Facilities Supervisor

Chandler Snipe
Project Manager

David T. Thomas
Leasing/Accounting Manager

Kayler Williams
Sr. Executive Assistant

Vernon E. Williams
Chief Operating Officer

press + news

latest press
December 18, 2024
The Mistletoe Market to return to Houston with “Home for the Holidays” Theme
December 18, 2024
The Mistletoe Market to return to Houston with “Home for the Holidays” Theme
September 19, 2024
New Public Art Installation Honors Houston Icons for Hispanic Heritage Month
September 19, 2024
New Public Art Installation Honors Houston Icons for Hispanic Heritage Month
September 3, 2024
Call for Artists: Houston Creatives Invited to Apply for HueMan:Shelter
September 3, 2024
Call for Artists: Houston Creatives Invited to Apply for HueMan:Shelter
September 3, 2024
National Night Out in Midtown
September 3, 2024
National Night Out in Midtown
August 29, 2024
Midtown Park Public Art Installations
August 29, 2024
Midtown Park Public Art Installations
June 10, 2024
Midtown Celebrates Juneteenth – 2024
June 10, 2024
Midtown Celebrates Juneteenth – 2024
March 26, 2024
2024 Art in the Park
March 26, 2024
2024 Art in the Park
March 23, 2024
2023 Art in the Park
March 23, 2024
2023 Art in the Park
latest news coverage
February 25, 2025
Take an interactive crafting class at Bagby Park this March
February 20, 2025
Military drama highlighting Houston history hits The Ensemble’s stage during Black History Month
December 17, 2024
Southern Palm Development Grand Opening: A Triumph for Affordable Homeownership in Houston
October 19, 2024
Funded by a $1 million grant, Houston will launch nine art installations in Midtown in homeless project
October 1, 2024
Click2Houston – National night Out
August 30, 2024
Black Business Month: The Flora Culture
August 30, 2024
Black Business Month: The Baker’s Man
August 28, 2024
Black Business Month with The Ranch HTX | Houston Happens
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