Midland City Council Approved Alley Vacation

The city authorized the closure of an alley to pave the way for a new commercial retail and restaurant development.

Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Bold flat-color editorial illustration in deep red and cream, showing two geometric building blocks separated by a narrow void. — Midland officials authorized the closure of a city alleyway near Scharbauer Drive to support a new retail development project. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you support the redevelopment of older commercial blocks in your community for new retail centers?

Midland officials have approved the vacation of a 0.163-acre alleyway located between Scharbauer Drive and Humble Avenue. Developers paid the city $14,228 to finalize the move, which will facilitate the construction of a new shopping center.

Why it matters

The city determined the alley was no longer necessary for local infrastructure and approved its closure to boost commercial activity along North Big Spring Street. This development is expected to replace former apartment buildings and older structures with modern retail options.

Developers paid $14,228 to the city to vacate the 0.163-acre site. The project must still complete a final replat process before construction begins.

The players

Midland City Council

This is the governing body for the city of Midland, Texas, responsible for legislative decisions regarding land use and infrastructure.

The details

The project includes the construction of a McDonald’s and a 7Brew restaurant on the property's northeast corner. Developers are responsible for all utility relocation costs, while an existing laundromat will be replaced once its current lease expires.

October 5, 2026: The project news was finalized.

Market Landscape

The project follows the pattern of infill commercial growth established by the Midland urban renewal commercial development initiative. This development shifts market share toward North Big Spring Street by replacing aging residential parcels with modern, high-traffic retail brands.

Residents can expect new dining options, specifically a McDonald’s and a 7Brew, to open on the northeast corner of the site. Local shoppers should anticipate shifts in retail availability as older structures are replaced by these modern establishments.

The takeaway

The transformation of this site reflects a broader strategy to revitalize aging infrastructure with high-demand commercial tenants. Readers can expect improved access to new dining options as the project moves through its final replatting phase.