This is an interesting question...it needs us to give a little history of the South Katy area to answer.
What Made South Katy Develop?
Many factors helped in the development of south Katy but we think the most important factor in the initial development was George Bush Park. For those who do not know Houston....George Bush Park is a large land grant given to the City of Houston to use as a sort of playground and environmental area...with one stipulation...it can never be built on (given the growth in Houston if they could have built, they would have!). This factor created what we can call a built in buffer zone between Houston and Katy...sort of the place the City ends and the Country begins.
Because of this buffer zone South Katy is actually not located in the City of Katy. The land is either in Unincorporated Harris County or Unincorporated Fort Bend County depending on location. The area is actually located in the ETJ of the City of Houston (and may at some point in the future be a part of Houston) and is controlled through the specific Counties. This allowed developers to gobble up the land and string together the beautiful subdivisions and master planned communities that really sets South Katy apart from the rest of Houston.
What Makes the South Katy Area Special?
When the developers saw the potential of the area, and because in large part they could control the growth and manage the land...they bought it up and laid out (read zoned) the areas within their borders. Much of Houston has no zoning so commercial properties like gas stations or fast food restaurants can be your neighbor if you do not understand the ramifications. The subdivisions and master planned communities in South Katy laid out the area with strong home owner associations to prevent this from happening. Residential home owners know what land can be commercial...if you buy a home that backs to future commercial...you will have made the decision to do so...you are not likely to get surprised by it, and certainly a strong Realtor will know what the future can hold for any available property!
Why Do Parents Love the South Katy Schools?
We live in the South Katy area and one of the main reasons for our move to the area was the KatyISD schools! Parents are involved...really involved...and that in my opinion separates these schools from the surrounding school districts. For those considering relocating to the Houston area, The KatyISD has specific programs to help new students quickly adjust to life in the area...also remember...we are one of, if not the top relocation areas in the World. Your kids will have lots of other classmates in the same position they are...looking to make new friends in a new area!
What Does the Future Hold For South Katy?
At one time South Katy was a very one dimensional area that lived off the Houston Energy Corridor. Most of the jobs and relocation clients came through companies like BP, Shell, Conoco Phillips, etc... In the past few years the South Katy economy has really diversified. Medical jobs and facilities have cropped up all over the area. With many full service hospitals, clinics, doctor, and dental offices come high paying jobs and an even greater quality of life. Shopping options like the Katy Mills Mall, the LaCenterra Mall, The Villagio Retail Center, and the soon to be built Grand Promenade have allowed those who live in Katy to stay in Katy...no need to head into Houston for a new outfit! Many restaurants have also decided to call Katy home in the past few years. Perry's Steak House, Fish City Grill, 3 Olives Italian Restaurant, Berryhill, Tokyo Steak and Sushi, etc... are all thriving dining options...and all are kid friendly. The future of South Katy seems very bright!
South Katy is a great place to live, work, play, and raise a family!
