Third Ward Planning and Brokerage Firm Launches Real Estate Development Capacity Building Workshop Series

Earlier this month, the Office of Jason T. Hyman teamed up with Gregory Benjamin, an AIA architect based in Third Ward, to host its Bridge 2 Action workshop. The workshop was the first in a series designed to build capacity for individuals, nonprofits and developers as a component of the firm’s Lost Spaces program. The Build on Your Lot real estate workshop included real world examples and interactive demonstrations for individuals interested in small-scale community development. Texas Southern University’s Student Planning Organization hosted the workshop giving students and professors the opportunity to interact with professionals in attendance who practice and apply planning skills in various aspects of development. “I made sure to interact with them and connect the dots,” said founder Jason Hyman. He continued, “it’s important they understand the implications planning has on communities and are aware of the problems we’re facing. That way they can start thinking of solutions and come out of the program ready to change things.” As an alumni of the program, Jason regularly engages current students and offers internship opportunities to supplement what they’re getting in the classroom.Other professionals in attendance had an opportunity to get insight on coming changes in Houston regulations affecting parking, building size and sidewalks. They also weighed in during round-table discussions around code enforcement and ways the City can develop in the face of exponential growth while preserving community. Attendees came away with tools to identify and activate underutilized “lost” spaces in communities starting with their own. In the absence of zoning, knowledge of the potential impacts of real estate and community-driven development is a strong line of defense for vulnerable neighborhoods. To learn more about the Lost Spaces program or to get involved, come out to the next Office of Jason T. Hyman event or visit the company website. You can also sign up to preview upcoming design guidelines! Whether you are an individual, nonprofit or developer looking to make an impact, there are tools available at the Office of Jason T. Hyman to help.