Council OKs first reading to abandon 0.844 acres of right of way tied to planned commercial development

The Manvel City Council unanimously approved the first of two readings of an ordinance to abandon about 0.844 acres (36,765 square feet) of a 40‑foot unnamed public right of way that divides a recently annexed commercial planned unit development.

Development services staff explained the right‑of‑way abandonment supports a more efficient site layout, cohesive detention design and advances plans tied to the Kirby Drive extension. The portion at issue was previously in the city’s extraterritorial jurisdiction and has since been annexed; staff said notices were sent to utilities and CenterPoint Energy returned letters of no objection.

A developer representative, Ryan, said abandonment would allow a more cohesive drainage pattern and better site design for the commercial users expected at the site, and that the project continues work on utilities and wastewater/water plant expansions. Council approved the first reading 6‑0.

The ordinance will return for a second reading; if approved, staff will coordinate property conveyances via quitclaim deeds to the abutting property owners as described in the ordinance language.