Lanco-Continental Plaza originated between FM 1960 and Atascocita road in 1982. It was split into hundreds of separate blocks (typically 50 X 100 feet) which were sold to individual buyers with the promise of mixed use development. Several streets were paved with most being named after major waterways, such as Barents and Aegean Seas and Indian Ocean.
The properties are now a barren wasteland with only a couple of structures ever having been built. It is an eyesore that has become an illegal dumping ground of tires, electronics, concrete, etc. A dilapidated sign, often graffiti-filled, on FM 1960 gives a hint of what lies beyond the initial row of pine trees.
Development of this land is unlikely because of the number of owners and the lack of developed utilities. Many of the properties were bought by individuals in East Asia and most are in default on property taxes.
The only hope for this land is that taxing authorities will confiscate the properties in default, and that the remaining properties in good tax standing are bought for a governmental or public purpose using eminent domain laws.
However for now, this land seems destined to remain part of local lore, and a reminder of all that was wrong with Houston-area real estate in the early 1980's.
Continental Plaza Atascocita, Texas:
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