Old Texas Strip Malls Might Soon Turn Into Apartments

Every time I drive past one of those old, falling-apart strip malls, I always wonder, why is this thing still standing instead of getting knocked down?

Well, those empty buildings all over Texas might finally be getting a much-needed makeover, and that could help people who are struggling to find a place to live.

This week, the Texas House gave the green light to a new bill, Senate Bill 840. It would let people turn old offices and strip malls into apartments or homes without needing to get special permission first.

That process is called rezoning, and it usually takes a long time and costs a lot of money. Skipping that step could help save time and cash, which could help make housing more affordable.

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The bill only applies to big cities like Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio, places with a population greater than 150,000 that sit in a county with at least 300,000 residents.

Right now, Texas is short about 320,000 homes, and prices have gone way up. This new rule is part of a bigger plan to build more homes in more places, and faster. Other ideas being looked at include allowing people to build smaller homes or even backyard houses.

A recent poll found that many Texans like the idea of turning old business buildings into homes. It makes sense, empty buildings don’t help anyone.

Next, the bill heads back to the Senate one more time before it can go to Governor Abbott to be signed into law.

If that happens, some of those old, empty buildings across Texas might finally get a second chance, as someone’s new home.