Downtown Houston

About Us

About Downtown Houston

Downtown Houston, Inc., started as a small core group who wanted to improve the physical integrity, retain and recruit businesses and market the downtown area of Houston, Missouri.

In February 2000, Downtown Houston, Inc, obtained 501 [c] [3] status. At first the group met at homes and downtown locations as it attempted to finalize and develop goals. A delegation visited Steelville and Washington, Mo., to review its progress and strategies for their downtown area.

Since its inception, 67 members have indicated an interest in following the group’s progress. In addition to the regular meeting, the group has held numerous public hearings, completed survey work, published a monthly newsletter and hired a worker, who later became the City of Houston director of development.

Membership in Downtown Houston, Inc. is open to individuals who have an interest in the betterment of the downtown business district and surrounding areas. Key individuals in spearheading the effort for Downtown Houston Inc. all have long records of service to the community.

One of the group’s projects turned a 75-year-old grocery store located at the first caution light on the north edge of town into the Houston Visitors Center. It houses resources and memorabilia related to the history of the town, local sites and attractions. Brochures and maps give self-directed tours of the town, Ozark Region and state. The city’s economic developer also has an office there. Nearby, a redi-mix plant property was purchased and the hillside planted with wildflowers.

The building, built in 1937, once housed Haney’s Market that not only provided groceries but was home to one of the first gas stations near U.S. 63. The four room 30’x 55’ building features rock exterior indicative of many buildings in Houston. The area serves as the trail head for the Brushy Creek Trail, a segment of the Village Trail, which circles the town.

A second project of the organization reclaimed a major downtown half city block, which was destroyed by fire in 1999. With NAP credit participation, Downtown Houston, Inc., has ownership of the block. It includes a copper canopy. It is available for rental by calling 417-838-7840. There is no charge due to the generosity of donors to Downtown Houston Inc.

The group also led the restoration of the Melba Theatre, which was constructed in 1938 and became idle in the 1980s. Downtown Houston Inc. bought the property, along with buildings on each side. The project included a complete interior restoration. A new sound booth and stage were constructed and new seating installed. Dressing rooms, handicapped-accessible restrooms and a concession stand are on the premises. The original wall lighting was restored.

Through the group’s efforts with the City of Houston, new lighting and sidewalks also were installed downtown, along with new trash receptacles.

Leadership of Downtown Houston, Inc., also was involved in the effort to build a new 7,200 square foot library west from the Lone Star Plaza and south of the U.S. Post Office. It is slated to open in summer 2025.