The Fourth Ward Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone was created under Chapter 311 of the Texas Tax Code to facilitate the revitalization of the Historic Fourth Ward from a blighted and deteriorating neighborhood into a viable residential community with supporting commercial development

Without the creation of a TIRZ, the revitalization of this historic neighborhood would not have occurred in the foreseeable future. Among the Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) identified in the project plan to improve the area are: public utilities such as water, wastewater and storm sewer improvements: major and minor street improvements and enhancements (street upgrades, sidewalks and lighting); parks, landscaping, design, signage and security enhancements; acquisition and preservation of historic properties; and implementing an affordable housing program.

This once vibrant residential area had been marred by severe blight. There are a substantial number of deteriorated structures, deficient streets, utilities and sidewalks. These conditions are considered impairments to the sound growth of the city and a social and economic liability. Recently, the conditions in the Fourth Ward have improved to the extent that developers, builders and lenders no longer consider it an area too risky for private investment.

This area continues to strive to become as vibrant as its historical roots and with the assistance of the guidance of the Amended Project Plan and Reinvestment Zone Financing Plan and the input of the Fourth Ward Community, the Board of Directors of the FWRA is actively seeking to implement the identified projects and make Fourth Ward the pride of the City of Houston, Texas.