Johnny Carson, Neil Simon Investment Group Sells 26 Acres to Costco, Great Indoors

HOUSTON-A Costco discount store and Great Indoors home decorating store will move into a major retail development to be built on 26 acres at Texas 249 and FM 1960, across from Willowbrook Mall in northwest Harris County. The land has been sold by Johnny Carson, former host of The Tonight Show, who had bought it and other acreage here in 1981 in partnership with other investors, including playwright Neil Simon.

Kansas-based investors Wanamaker Texas Limited Partnership had bought the land for an undisclosed price and then sold 11 acres to Great Indoors and 15 acres to Costco. The site will house two big boxes’ first locations in Houston. Costco sells discount items, as well as some luxury merchandise. The Great Indoors sells home decorating and remodeling products.

The entire project encompasses 39 acres and will be called Willowbrook Shopping Center Phase II, boasting three strip centers. Construction will begin within two months on the first strip center. Wanamaker also will sell or lease sites for freestanding restaurants.

The area surrounding the future development is growing with new homes and retailers. It also is the home of computer manufacturer Compaq Computer Corp.