Once a thriving auto dealership, the massive property on the northwest corner of Northwest Highway and Abrams has sat largely untouched since 2008. When Houston-based developer Ainbinder Co. bought the 13-acre site in 2015, it seemed like progress would finally come, but again, the center sat.
Last week, the newly dubbed High Point Crossing announced its first fleet of tenants. There seems to be a theme of low-cost retailers, with Five Below, where nothing costs more than $5, off-priced retailers Marshalls and Burlington Coat Factory; and discount chain Academy Sports and Outdoors. No word yet on when construction will be completed and the stores will open, but the 180,000-square-foot lot also has room for smaller shops and restaurants, according to reports.
City Councilman Mark Clayton told the Advocate in August that High Point also sought to build apartments on the lot, saying it was necessary for their economic model. The request made it passed the Plan Commission, but was blocked by Clayton, who was worried it didn’t get enough public scrutiny.
“They didn’t need it right away,” Clayton said. “I told them if they wanted [the apartments], they could come back and ask for them when they’re ready to build, so the public can weigh in.”