Houston homeowners face expanded FEMA flood zones

Downtown's Main Street gets $14M makeover, as housing market shifts to buyers' favor

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Houston homeowners could soon see much larger mapped flood risk zones and potentially higher flood insurance costs as FEMA's draft maps expand Harris County's 100‑year floodplain by about 43%. Meanwhile, downtown Houston's Main Street is getting a $14 million makeover, and the local housing market is shifting to favor buyers over sellers for the first time in years.

Why it matters

The FEMA flood map changes could have significant financial impacts on Houston homeowners, while the Main Street revitalization aims to create a more vibrant, pedestrian-friendly destination ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The shift in the housing market also signals a return to more balanced conditions after years of a seller's market.

The details

FEMA's draft maps would expand Harris County's 100‑year floodplain by about 43%, potentially leading to higher flood insurance costs for many Houston homeowners. City and county leaders are pressing for more transparency as residents will get a chance to review and challenge their new designations before the maps are finalized. Meanwhile, the $14 million Main Street makeover will widen sidewalks, add shade and greenery, and create more room for outdoor dining along a seven-block stretch from Rusk to Commerce, with the goal of turning the area into a more vibrant, pedestrian-friendly destination by June 2026 in time for the World Cup. On the housing front, the local market has shifted to favor buyers, with listings now sitting an average of 66 days and inventory up sharply, giving homebuyers more room to negotiate on price, repairs, and concessions.

  • FEMA's draft flood maps are currently under review.
  • The $14 million Main Street makeover is slated to finish by June 2026.
  • The Houston housing market has shifted to a more balanced phase in 2026.

The players

FEMA

The Federal Emergency Management Agency, which is responsible for mapping flood risk zones.

Houston city and county leaders

Local officials who are pressing for more transparency on the FEMA flood map changes.

Houston housing market

The local real estate market, which has shifted to favor buyers over sellers for the first time in years.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.