HOUSTON — (Realty News Report) – The historic Jones on Main office tower has received Fitwel certification for healthy buildings, becoming the second property in Texas to earn this recognition.
Fitwel has grown in importance within the real estate sector over the past year as the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the need for safer, healthier workplace environments.
The 890,380-square-foot property at 712 Main was recently redeveloped by Lionstone Investments and Midway Companies of Houston.
Developed originally by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in partnership with the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA), Fitwel is a third-party certification program managed by the Center for Active Design (CfAD). It establishes evidence-based strategies and standards to support positive health outcomes for building occupants and surrounding communities.
The developers say Jones on Main’s Fitwel certification reflects Lionstone Investments’ and Midway Companies’ dedication to enhancing the health and well-being of employees and tenants through intentional design and operational practices that promote wellness.
“This prestigious certification reflects our commitment to enhancing wellness among our employees and building tenants,” said Hunain Dada, Senior Director of Real Estate Portfolio Management for Lionstone Investments. “Investing in health-promoting features now, as firms plan office reopenings following the COVID-19 pandemic, will help improve the well-being of our occupants.”
Completed in 1929 and commissioned by developer Jesse Jones, the 37-story Art Deco tower at 712 Main stood as Houston’s tallest building until 1963. The structure is designated a City of Houston Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Located in a walkable, transit-accessible core of Downtown Houston, the building boasts a Walk Score of 98 out of 100 and a transit stop directly across from its main entrance. New measures that contributed to the Fitwel 1 Star Rating include dedicated lactation rooms for tenants, a green purchasing policy, and plans for an outdoor tenant space featuring a rooftop patio and restorative garden.
“We are proud to recognize Lionstone Investments’ and Midway Companies’ commitment to advancing the healthy building movement by achieving Fitwel certification for Jones on Main,” said Joanna Frank, President and CEO of CfAD. “By implementing Fitwel’s evidence-based strategies, these industry leaders are taking proactive steps to protect occupants’ health and well-being—efforts that build trust, strengthen tenant relationships, and support productivity.”
CBRE manages the building’s office and retail leasing.
March 24, 2021 Realty News Report Copyright 2021
File: Tower Awarded Fitwel Certification. Midway. Lionstone Investments