1,300-home community launched in Waller County near Katy, Texas

Home sales are getting underway in a new 356-acre community in Brookshire, contributing to the growth of the small town west of Katy.

Bluestem, developed by Signorelli Co., is expected to encompass 1,300 single-family homes north of Interstate 10 near FM 362 and FM 529 in Waller County, about 15 miles west of Katy.

Work to prepare land, utilities and roads for the community began last year, and so far, homebuilders have started construction on more than 25 homes. Homebuilders CastleRock and First America Homes are offering model homes, while Legend Homes' models are expected to open in July.

Home sizes range from 1,300 to 2,950 square feet, with prices ranging from $239,000 to about $350,000, according to Signorelli.
Residents should be able to start moving out this summer.

The Signorelli Co. said it was attracted to Waller County in part because of its strong potential for long-term economic growth. Waller County's population is expected to double in the next 12 to 15 years, according to the Waller County Economic Development Partnership. There are more than 24 residential developments underway in the county that are expected to add 30,000 new homes, according to the partnership. Growth in popular suburbs like Katy and Fulshear is also trickling down to smaller towns like Brookshire.

Brookshire's access to nature also attracted Signorelli to the area, the company said. Named for local prairie grasses, Bluestem is surrounded by acres of preserved green space, including miles of sidewalks connecting neighbors to pocket parks every quarter mile. An indoor play area and a pavilion are planned on 2 hectares of leisure space.

“Waller County is a sought-after destination because of its blend of privacy and accessibility, which inspired us to create Bluestem,” said Jeff Dewese, senior vice president of Signorelli Co.'s land division. Not only does this community offer a serene environment to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, but it also has great amenities and access to excellent schools.

Bluestem is part of the Royal Independent School District.