Former student helps firm earn UIL award for CityCentre project

A Texas A&M land development graduate helped guide the success of CityCentre, a 37-acre, mixed-use development in Houston, recently cited by the Urban Land Institute as an understated canvas for the living, shopping and recreational activities for its residents and visitors.

Jonathan Brinsden ‘92 is executive vice president and chief operating officer of Midway Companies, developer of CityCentre, which won a 2012 Development of Distinction Award Jan. 30 from the ULI’s Houston District Council.

Brinsden earned a Master of Science in Land Development degree in 1994 and undergraduate degrees in environmental design and building construction in 1992.

The ULI awards jury said that “thoughtful streetscape design and public space make CityCentre feel like it has been here a long time,” adding that it was evident care was given to small details like street trees, signage and benches.

Located on Beltway 8 near its intersection with Interstate 10 west, CityCentre features European-style open-air plazas and green spaces along with upscale retail, dining, apartments, office space and a 255-room hotel.

It was built at the site of the former Town and Country Mall.

Brinsden, who helps guide Midway Companies’ overall strategy and operations, advised a group of students crafting leasing proposals in a summer 2011 Master of Science in Land Development class as they crafted leasing proposals after visiting CityCentre.

The Mays Business School at Texas A&M is offering its professional and executive MBA programs at a new CityCentre facility.—

The Urban Land Institute’s mission is to provide responsible leadership land development. Its 30,000 members represent every segment of the real estate community, including property owners, investors, advisers, developers, architects, lawyers, lenders, planners, regulators, contractors, engineers, university professors, librarians, students and interns.