Houston Springs Forth

By Jon Suggs, HHJ Staff Writer

PERRY – Wednesday morning, officials took the ceremonial first step towards bringing 2,000 homes to Perry.

Local government and business members, along with ambassadors from the Perry and Warner Robins chambers of commerce, gathered as ground was broken on Houston Springs.

Mayor Jim Worrall formally welcomed the opening of the project, saying he things it is a positive move for the area and will have a great impact on Perry.

"We hope it grows to become a viable part of our community," Worrall said.

Jeffrey L. Moredock, Houston Springs managing director, said the people of Perry have been helpful and welcoming through all the planning stages.

"The sun has shined on this whole experience," Moredock said.

Described by its developers as a senior resort community, Houston Springs is envisioned as a home for active retirees, with planned amenities including an 18-hole golf course, nearby shopping, golf cart paths, and a downtown center, all on 494 acres between U.S. 341 and Airport Road.

The community is open to those 55 and older.

The construction will be spread over five phases, with several hundred houses, the golf course, and the downtown center in the first two.

A basic house retails for $89,900, plus the cost of the lot. A few expansion options are also available.

For the first 50 reservations, the lot is free. Sales manager Bill Watson said 45 reservations had been made as of Wednesday afternoon.

Construction on the first house was scheduled to begin on Thursday. Three model houses - displaying various options packages - will be built first, to give potential buyers a better idea of what's for sale.

Last updated 4/28/2005