Sugar Land, TX. – February 14, 2025 – The City of Sugar Land has announced plans to acquire the Imperial Historic District, home to the former Imperial Sugar site and the iconic Char House. This acquisition would be a pivotal step towards the City’s ongoing effort to protect this landmark and honor its heritage while revitalizing the heart of the community. Sugar Land City Council will vote on a plan for acquisition during the Feb. 18 City Council meeting.
If approved, the City’s acquisition of this approximately 45-acre property ensures the Char House preservation and redevelopment efforts move forward while removing barriers that have hindered investment in the past. As the City’s number one priority, this project represents a transformational opportunity to honor Sugar Land’s history while shaping its future. By owning this site, the city is laying the foundation for strategic redevelopment that will continue to elevate Sugar Land as one of the most desirable places to live, work, and visit.
Imperial Sugar, one of the longest-operating businesses in Texas, is a cornerstone of Sugar Land’s identity, shaping both the city’s past and present. Founded by Samuel, Nathaniel and Matthew Williams along the banks of Oyster Creek, the company and its legacy have left a lasting mark on Texas history. The Imperial Historic District was once a hub of employment, housing and community for many Sugar Land residents, and its revitalization ensures that this rich history is honored for generations to come.
“Acquiring the Imperial Historic District is a crucial step in preserving Sugar Land’s namesake while planning for its future,” said Sugar Land Mayor Joe R. Zimmerman. “Our priority is preserving the Char House and preventing further deterioration as we work to identify a future developer that has an exceptional vision for the property. The acquisition will be funded with sales tax revenue earmarked for economic development, so no property taxes will be used. We recognize past redevelopment challenges, and with this acquisition, we are taking a hands-on approach to ensure its revitalization benefits future generations.”
If approved by City Council on Feb. 18, the City plans to close on the properties at the end of May. In the following months, the City will focus on taking steps to preserve the Char House.
For more information, including frequently asked questions, please visit www.sugarlandtx.gov/ImperialHistoricDistrict
About the City of Sugar Land
WE ARE TRAILBLAZERS ... relentless in our pursuit of progress so that our employees, residents, and businesses can enjoy a life better than they ever imagined. Sugar Land has always been a city that surpasses expectations, fearlessly forging new paths while delivering top-tier services to its residents. According to our latest Citizen Satisfaction Survey, 95 percent of residents love calling Sugar Land home, with 10 percent saying that nothing could make their lives better than they already are. As a community built on entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to the future, we aim to be a city that the private sector looks to for inspiration. We don’t just follow trends—we set them. With unwavering determination, we are trailblazing a path toward a vibrant future where innovation and progress thrive. The possibilities are endless. Together, we can ensure a bright future for Sugar Land.