Chappaqua's Dan Biederman to help launch new park in Houston

Dan Biederman of Chappaqua and his firm Biederman Redevelopment Ventures, a consulting firm that specializes in developing and operating public spaces, have been retained by The Upper Kirby District to launch the programming and operations of Levy Park, a newly redeveloped park in central Houston.

BRV (www.brvcorp.com ) has been involved in the planning, operation, sponsoring, and programming of the public park, which will open in February. Biederman, is best known for transforming New York City’s Bryant Park, as well as creating and revitalizing parks and public spaces in 23 states.

The 5.5-acre Levy Park includes a performance pavilion, two large lawns, a community garden, interactive water features, and a children’s play area. An in-park restaurant and kiosks are planned to open about a year following the grand opening.

According to Biederman, through partnerships with local organizations and businesses, Levy Park will feature an active schedule of free daily programs and events, including fitness classes, literary programming, dance lessons, art classes, and live music. There will also be amenities available for use at any time during the park’s operating hours, including ping pong, board games, an art area, and a reading room.

Biederman has also consulted on urban redevelopment and management projects in Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, Miami, and Pittsburgh and has worked on public spaces with some of the leading mixed-use developers in the United States, including The Related Companies, The Howard Hughes Corporation, Blackstone, and Jamestown Properties.

BRV is currently working on public space and park projects in Boston, Newark, Buffalo, Honolulu, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, and Stamford, CT.