West University considers centralizing city services in 'super block'

WEST UNIVERSITY, TX (KTRK) -- West University Place's plans to build a "Super Block" left some residents on edge.

Sisters Ida and Katherine Sweeney received a letter in the mail last month advising them of the project. The letter also said at some point, West U wants to own her land.

City officials told Eyewitness News the design is part of a master plan, drafted for decades down the line. Katherine and others living in the neighborhood did not feel comforted.

"Well, there goes our house. It's not fair. This is our home. It's not a house. It's a home," said Sweeney. "That's a cloud that hangs over us."

Opposition to the project can be seen on city streets. Red signs, reading stopsuperblock.org, sprung up on front lawns. Communications manager Maura Leon-Barber urged residents to wait for more information.

"I think what's most important for residents to know there is no eminent domain planned," said Leon-Barber. "We want residents to know this a large range plan over the next 30, 50 years."

West U plans to hold two town halls set for Monday, November 17th at the Community Center. The first one is at 2pm, the second at 6:30pm. Everyone is encouraged to attend the meeting.