When the Rice Village location of Half Price Books permanently closed its doors earlier this year, the Montrose location became the chain’s last location inside the loop. But now, the future of the popular Half Price Books store in the heart of Montrose is in danger as the incredibly valuable shopping center it’s located in was just purchased by a new developer.
Skanska USA Commercial Development has purchased the nearly 3-acre tract at the southwest corner of Westheimer and Montrose, according to a new report from the Houston Chronicle. The property was acquired at a lofty price tag of $27 million.
At the time of this writing Skanska hasn’t officially stated their plans for the site, but indicated the property would likely be redeveloped with possible uses including apartments, offices, shops, or even a boutique hotel.
“Located in the Montrose neighborhood of Houston, in between Midtown and River Oaks, Skanska plans to develop a mixed-use project which could consist of multi-family, retail, and office tower for the local community. The project will target LEED® Platinum certification,” a press release from the company reads.
For now, Half Price Books and its neighbors that include Spec’s and the excellent 369 Oriental Bistro (if you haven’t tried their Crispy Spicy Asparagus, you need to get some ASAP) remain open, but the writing seems to be on the wall and Half Price Books is likely entering its final chapter in the Montrose area.
