The Battle for Polk Street: City Leaders vs. East End
When Houston officials unveiled a massive $2 billion expansion for the George R. Brown Convention Center, the project quickly faced pushback from residents in the East End. Their concern: it would shut down part of Polk Street, a busy street in downtown and their key access into downtown. Host Raheel Ramzanali is bringing on Ryan Nickerson, quality of life reporter at the Houston Chronicle, and Amy Erickson, organizer with People for Polk, about why East End residents are so concerned, how Houston decides when to abandon a public street, and what else is at stake.
Stories we talked about on today’s episode:
- How Houston decides when to abandon public streets and alleys
- Houston’s East End residents concerned about closure of Polk Street for convention center expansion
- Why this busy downtown Houston street is being abandoned by the city
- Houston's GRB South will feature the largest ballroom in Texas, but not everyone is excited
- What impacts your quality of life the most in Houston?
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Learn more about People of Polk
Learn more about the sponsors of this April 29th episode:
Cozy Earth - Use code HOUSTON for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more.
Aura Frames - Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST
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Thank you Houston, we’ve loved the conversation we’ve been having with you for the past three years. City Cast Houston and Hey Houston have suspended operations. Our last newsletter and podcast episode was Oct. 24, 2025.
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