Johnson Development Debuts Lazy River in Jordan Ranch

Johnson Development Corp. is once again changing the landscape for residential development, this time in Fulshear’s Jordan Ranch, which just opened the second phase of its amenity center, The Shed.

Part two of the recreation complex includes two lighted tennis courts, a multi-age playground, resort-style pool and lazy river, all complementing the Phase 1 clubhouse, fitness center and event lawn.

“What sets this complex apart from other residential amenity centers is the lazy river,” said Clayton Bruner, an associate with SWA Group, which designed the 4.1-acre facility.

Movement in the river, which measures nearly 600 linear feet, is propelled by pumps that are separate from the pool’s filtration system, an important distinction, Bruner said.

“This is a true lazy river,” he said. “We’ve set the pumps so there is enough propulsion to move you along, but still keep it a lazy float. Other residential lazy rivers that I’ve seen are much more static because they don’t have the separate pump system.”

Resident Natalie Blair finds the current — which can be adjusted — and the size of the river just right.

“We’ve gone more time than I can count,” she said. “We absolutely love it and wouldn’t change a thing. Although lazy rivers at water parks and resorts may be bigger, I feel like ours is the perfect size for a neighborhood lazy river.”

Building it bigger and better is a signature statement for Johnson Development, said Steve Sams, general manager of Jordan Ranch.

“The Club Sienna Waterpark in Sienna Plantation was not the first residential waterpark, but at 12 acres, it was the biggest, and it certainly offered over-the-top features,” he said. “We were one of the first developers to have on-site Directors of Fun in our communities and to set up perpetually funded foundations to benefit homeowners and those living in surrounding areas. Johnson Development also is behind the Houston area’s first farm-centric community.

“We would do no less than build a true lazy river for our Jordan Ranch residents,” he said.

The lazy river is separate from the pool and runs along its eastern edge, curving around islands that offer seating. Around the pool are two shade structures that have integrated gas grills. A cabana can be separated into nine private alcoves. Plus, in the clubhouse an approximately 1,000-square-foot meeting room opens to a large lawn, allowing for events to move inside and out seamlessly.

“The splash pad also is built for year-round use, a nice feature since it can be 85 degrees in Texas in December,” Bruner said.

Eight builders have opened 12 model homes in Jordan Ranch, with pricing from the $200,000s to the $500,000s. Several of the models are new, including models recently opened by new Jordan Ranch builders Chesmar Homes and Lennar. David Weekley Homes also recently opened a new model home in the community.

For more information about Jordan Ranch, visit www.jordanranchtexas.com.