From coffee dates to graduations, The Woodlands welcomes visitors to celebrate any and every occasion at Market Street. Today, this shopping and lifestyle center is a thriving cornerstone of the community. Twenty years ago, this concept was as risky as it was new. People were so used to the indoor shopping malls, but Terry Montesi had a vision and the means to bring a new concept to life in The Woodlands.
Mr. Montesi, founder and CEO of Trademark Property Company, imagined a walkable “downtown” that would elevate The Woodlands from both a business and community perspective. With local grocer H.E.B. as its first tenant and a thriving Town Center, Market Street was sure to attract attention. Adding a few restaurants, clothing outlets, bookstores, a park and even dedicated office spaces, gave everyone reason to take a closer look.
Mr. Montesi and his company partnered with Town Center Improvement District (now The Woodlands Township) to help create dynamic and attractive public spaces and parking.
Market Street circa the 1990s | Photo Courtesy of Market Street
Market Street circa 2023
It did not take long for this new concept to gain traction, and it grew steadily over the next ten years. Then, The Woodlands’ residential population exploded. This influx drastically changed the retail landscape, increasing the overall demand for business—and for Market Street businesses in particular. People liked what their Town Center had to offer, and they wanted more of it.
Jenny Taylor, General Manager of Market Street since 2015, has been a key figure in its development since 2005. Alongside various committees, she has overseen the acquisition of HYATT Centric, Tiffany & Co., Bosscat Kitchen & Libations and more. She also spearheaded the park renovation in 2018 and has kicked off countless events to bring people together. Market Street’s Live on the Lawn invites talented young artists from the Sarah Kelly Music School to perform on Market Street’s lawn every Friday night. Cars & Coffee for a Cause partners with The Woodlands Car Club on the first Sunday of every month to raise money for local charities. Both have become beloved traditions of The Woodlands community.
Market Street has grown and evolved significantly since its inception, but the finish line is constantly moving forward. New contracts can take up to a decade to put into writing, so Mrs. Taylor and her team are always listening to consumers, predicting which retailers and events will perform well here, and making those dreams reality. Major plans are already in the works for 2025 and 2026.
In the coming months, guests can look forward to events highlighting the Houston Rodeo, Spring Break, Easter, Mother’s Day and more. For more information, visit www.visitthewoodlands.com or see the concierge desk at Market Street.
