Oak Ridge North sees growth with new city facilities, infrastructure projects and businesses

Oak Ridge North will see new city facilities, infrastructure projects and businesses in the coming months as growth continues in what has been considered a “sleepy little town.”

The city of more than 3,200 residents and borders The Woodlands and Shenandoah is soon to have a new public works and police department facility in the Commerce Oaks Business Park off of Spectrum Way, said Economic Development Director Jordan Buras.

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The estimated cost between both facilities is $4 million, with the expectation of breaking ground soon with a date yet determined, Buras said. 

Officials are also hoping to break ground on the widening of Robinson Road project by early 2024, she said. 

The Robinson Road extension project has caused some debate in the past among mayoral candidates and some residents, but officials said previously that resident’s have become more excited for the growth in the area. 

The infrastructure project will turn Robinson Road into a 5-lane concrete roadway with curb and storm sewer system, according to city documents. It is currently in its bidding phase, with expectations of awarding the bid in October, Buras said.

“Once the road is completed, this area and this thoroughfare is going to be a huge connector for the east side of (Interstate) 45 into The Woodlands,” Buras said, noting that it could bring in more businesses. 

After the Robinson Road widening project is completed, it would allow the city to add a plaza district, where city hall currently sits, officials said. The new district would create a “market-street style environment,” Buras said. 

“We’re all just really excited to see all of the planning come into action and actually see the product being formed,” she said. 

Previously, Mayor Paul Bond said retail is important to the city due to it’s limited size. 

New businesses for Oak Ridge

Several businesses are coming to the city including a piano bar and a gun range, Buras said. 

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Recently, Hounds Town, a New York-based dog daycare off Robinson Road, opened on Aug. 19, she said. Two Tones Dueling Piano Bar, off I-45, is anticipated to open in October. The Copendero Archery, Pistol and Rifle range is expected to open on Sept. 23.

“That is one of the largest businesses we have coming,” Buras said. 

Other businesses coming to the area include a spa and a nursing clothing store, she said. 

“I’ve been with Oak Ridge (North) for four years now,” Buras said. “Our growth, it’s been exponential ever since.”