Construction is officially underway for Houston's first Del Webb active adult community. An official VIP ceremony was held in Richmond to formally break ground on the community in Fort Bend County. The community is restricted to residents ages 55 and better who are looking for a resort-style community where they can enjoy an active lifestyle. At completion, it is expected that the community will consist of approximately 1,500 single-family homes, acres of open space and a 28,000-square-foot lifestyle center located within a seven-acre amenity area.

Home construction is expected to begin in the fourth quarter 2008, with the first models projected for completion by spring 2009. Residents will be able to start moving in as early as summer 2009.

"This ground breaking ceremony marks an exciting step as we move closer to making this unique community a reality," said Kimberly Paulus, Director of Del Webb Operations in Houston. "Del Webb has been building active adult communities for more than 45 years, but this is the first time we've introduced our resort-living concept to Houston. We expect Del Webb to attract people who want to enjoy an active retirement without having to move away from family and the familiarity of the community where they've spent much of their lives."

Fort Bend County has been a premium destination for housing in recent years because it offers an attractive combination of major highways, commercial and medial facilities that drive employment, and comprehensive retail opportunities to serve its residents. Fort Bend County is a leader in new construction from the Houston Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), accounting for 8,441 housing closings in 2007 -- representing 20% of the Houston market.

The new Houston Del Webb community is expected to have approximately 1,500 homes along with expansive open spaces and water features. Paulus expects presales to occur in early 2009 and encourages people who have an interest in this community to join the VIP list by calling (866) 232.6072. For more information about Del Webb communities, please visit www.delwebb.com.