Founded in 1891, Houston Heights, one of the earliest and largest planned communities in the state of Texas, weathered the national decline of urban neighborhoods and has entered an era of growth, new construction, and a denser use of its space. Located approximately three miles from downtown Houston (the fourth-largest city in the nation), Houston Heights is now prime real estate. As townhomes, condos, and large apartment complexes continue to be built, the area's "small-town feel" has become diluted. Houston Heights is struggling to maintain its walkability, residents are trying to remain connected to their neighbors, and preservationists are striving to save its history. Almost everyone who lives here appreciates the quirkiness of the neighborhood, the visual impact of art that is part of their daily lives, the ethnic diversity, and the respect that residents show toward young and the old. Three City of Houston historic districts preserve portions of the neighborhood's traditional fabric.