Borderless Studio

At the International/Southmost neighborhood, the vision for housing transformation seek to build upon and elevate the cultural history and richness of the neighborhood as well as its strategic location adjacent to downtown and to International Boulevard, a major city-wide and neighborhood connector.  

By ensuring that the housing typology and elements, streetscape, amenities, and open spaces meet the needs and preferences of the community, there is emphasis on engaging the local residents, understanding their priorities and preferences, and incorporating their insights and feedback into the design process. 

    

At the International/Southmost neighborhood, the vision for housing transformation seek to build upon and elevate the cultural history and richness of the neighborhood as well as its strategic location adjacent to downtown and to International Boulevard, a major city-wide and neighborhood connector.  

By ensuring that the housing typology and elements, streetscape, amenities, and open spaces meet the needs and preferences of the community, there is emphasis on engaging the local residents, understanding their priorities and preferences, and incorporating their insights and feedback into the design process. 

HousingAuthority

Connecting neighborhood with community vision
The International Southmost is defined by strong cultural identity, active commercial corridors, and deep community pride.

Anchored by locally owned small and medium businesses, the area benefits from a strategic location and existing amenities. Where residents are committed to preserving the community’s cultural richness while advancing improvements that enhance quality of life.

The Neighborhood Plan builds on this foundation, focusing on strengthening connections to local assets, celebrating heritage, expanding safe and active open spaces, and improving corridors to be more walkable, safe, and welcoming.

Key initiatives include the revitalization of International Boulevard through new plazas and streetscapes, the creation of community gathering spaces and enhanced connectivity for the community.

These efforts support a safe, vibrant, and thriving community for current and future residents.

Planning Coordination: Borderless Studio, Collabo Planning
Market Analysis and Strategy: Randall Gross Development Economics 

HousingAuthority

The International Southmost is a community brimming with strong potential, anchored by vibrant commercial corridors, existing housing stock, and strong community assets. Linked to Downtown via International Boulevard, it serves as a crucial spine, connecting residents to the border crossing and key civic spaces, including parks, community centers, and the Southmost Library. 

The neighborhood is home to a predominantly young population, 95% Latino and mostly under the age of 30.

Through the Choice Neighborhoods Planning Grant, a comprehensive vision took shape, introducing new, energy-efficient housing while supporting broader neighborhood reinvestment.

This initiative centered people, expanding opportunities for low-income residents and elevating overall quality of life. The redevelopment of Victoria Gardens and Citrus Gardens introduced a renewed identity, catalyzing investment and attracting new residents.

Transformation is driven by connectivity both physical and social, strengthening links between existing assets and future opportunities. Rooted in the vision of the International Southmost community, the neighborhood evolved into a place of choice, defined by access, resilience, and opportunity.

Planning Coordination: Borderless Studio, Collabo Planning
Market Analysis and Strategy: Randall Gross Development Economics
Architectural Design: Able City  

International Southmost Choice Plan HousingAuthority City of Brownsville COLLABOPlanning