Sugar Land officials broke ground on the restoration of the Char House on Nov. 5, with former Imperial Sugar employees and residents in attendance. The Sugar Land City Council approved a $15.88 million construction contract on Oct. 20. The work includes replacing the roof and windows and repairing brick. The building was vacated in 2003 and has since begun to deteriorate. City staff have not chosen a future use for the 1925 building and plan to work with private companies on that decision.
The event also marked the completion of a mural showing the city's history. Residents shared stories and photos for the mural, according to a July city news release. Texas-based muralist Tyler Kay painted it. Former Imperial Sugar worker Lallie Garcia said she was glad to see the work moving forward.
Mayor Carol McCutcheon said there is still important work ahead. According to the city website, preservation is expected to begin in December and finish in spring 2028. Officials expect to choose a partner by the end of the year or early next year. The city is funding the project through a $50 million loan backed by sales tax.