The Woodlands CELEBRATING 50 YEARS of Excellence

THE WOODLANDS is one of the most successful master planned communities in the nation, and this year launched a yearlong celebration of festivities leading up to a grand celebration on October 19, 2024 exactly 50 years to the date of its official opening. Jim Carman, President, Houston Region for Howard Hughes and Dr. Ann Snyder, Chairman of the Board of Directors for The Woodlands Township, presided a kickoff announcement this past fall marking half a century of sustainable development that brought together current and founding leaders at The Woodlands® Towers at The Waterway.

Founded by entrepreneur and philanthropist George P. Mitchell, the 28,500-acre, 44.5-square-mile community reflects his innovative approach to urban planning and community development that embodied environmental preservation and social consciousness. A wooded oasis of modern living approximately 27 miles north of downtown Houston, The Woodlands is home to more than 120,000 residents, 2,400 employers and nearly 67,000 employees who enjoy an unparalleled quality of life.

“Decades ago, my father, the optimist, envisioned a vibrant community carved out of the forest, living with respect for the natural environment and for one another,” said Grant Mitchell, son of George Mitchell and Cynthia Woods Mitchell. “Its success 50 years on is the product of tens of thousands of individuals who have stewarded his values, affirming his undying belief in the fundamental goodness in people. And it is through that goodness that the legacy of these first 50 years will be assured for generations to come.”

George Mitchell was a pioneer who first envisioned The Woodlands as a self-sustaining, vibrant community where residents could live, work, learn, and play, fully integrated into a naturally forested and preserved environment.

“Howard Hughes continues to be guided by the vision of George Mitchell as we carry his legacy into the future—one that balances a cohesive spirit of community and environmental stewardship with growth and innovation,” said Carman.

“The true beauty of the 50th anniversary of The Woodlands is our hometown’s ‘generosity of spirit’ and belief in the good of fellow neighbors that was instilled in the beginning,” reflected Snyder. “The Woodlands Township is committed to its vision of supporting a thriving business community and a premier destination for visitors – a place where generations live, work, worship, learn and play.”

“Our community is full of amazing neighbors who, through their actions of service, make The Woodlands the best place to live, work, play and pray. At the Interfaith Ministries of The Woodlands local Heroes who have made a positive impact over the decades are honored for their commitment to The Woodlands area at the Excellence Gala,” shared Missy Herndon, President & CEO of Interfaith of The Woodlands.