Senior Housing Development & Engineering in Texas | JRH Engineering
Updated: Oct 8
Why Choose JRH Engineering
Why Developers, Contractors & Property Owners Choose JRH
Most engineering firms talk about technical capability. We focus on what actually matters to your project: speed, cost, communication, and results.
Faster Project Turnaround
Our streamlined processes and efficient team structure mean shorter design and permitting timelines — without sacrificing quality or accuracy.
Clear & Responsive Communication
You work directly with engineers who keep you informed. No long delays or unanswered emails — just straightforward updates and quick responses.
Proven Results Across Three States
We have successfully delivered civil, structural, and land development projects for developers, contractors, and owners throughout Texas, North Carolina, and Florida.
Check out JRH's case studies.
Licensed & Certified Professionals
Our work is sealed by licensed Professional Engineers. JRH Engineering is also a certified Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB / WBE) and HUB eligible.
Senior Housing Engineering in Texas
The oldest baby boomers turn 80 in 2026, and developers across Texas are planning independent living, assisted living and memory care communities.
These sites need civil and structural design built around residents with limited mobility.
JRH Engineering is a Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer and Land Development firm serving Texas, North Carolina and Florida.
JRH guiding principles are: Engineering Excellence. Delivered on Time. Built on Value.
Site Design for Senior Living
Gentle grades and short walks: accessible routes between buildings, parking and amenities
Drop-off zones: covered entries with accessible vehicle access
Accessibility: parking, ramps, curb ramps and walks designed to the 2010 ADA Standards and Fair Housing Act requirements where they apply
Detention pond safety: gentle side slopes, fencing or underground storage where open water near residents is a concern
Generator pads: site space for emergency equipment coordinated with the MEP engineer (by others)
Utilities and MUDs
Many suburban Texas sites are served by municipal utility districts.
Water, sewer and fire flow must be confirmed early, along with the district's design criteria.
See MUD Design in Texas.
Structural Considerations
One-story or low-rise buildings that support resident mobility and egress
Framing that allows wider corridors and doors
Foundations designed for expansive clays from a geotechnical report (by others)
Wind design for coastal and Gulf Coast markets, with WPI-8 support in Brazoria and Galveston counties
Regulatory Layers
State licensing: the Texas Health and Human Services Commission licenses assisted living facilities under Health and Safety Code Chapter 247 and 26 TAC Chapter 553, including life safety code rules
Local zoning: some sites need rezoning or a special use permit before plan submittal
TxDOT access: driveways on state highways need TxDOT access permits
Construction stormwater: sites disturbing 1 acre or more need TCEQ construction general permit coverage
Project: Oleander on Broadway, Galveston, TX
This mixed-use community is not senior housing, but it shows the civil design a large residential campus requires.
350 residential units with commercial space on 9.8 acres in Galveston
Read the full Oleander on Broadway case study
Challenges
No storm sewer outfall was available on the island site
Objectives
Manage stormwater within the site.
Deliver a complete civil package for a large residential development.
Solutions JRH Engineering Provided
Civil engineering building pads, grading, drainage and two public roads
A bioswale detention pond system using the site's sandy, permeable soil
Results:
Remote outfall connection eliminated
City of Galveston drainage requirements met within the site
Senior Housing Resources in Texas, North Carolina and Florida
Texas
North Carolina
Erosion control plans for more than 1 acre need approval under G.S. 113A-57.
Florida
Most stormwater systems need an Environmental Resource Permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who licenses assisted living facilities in Texas?
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission, under 26 TAC Chapter 553.
What site features matter most for senior housing?
Accessible routes, gentle grades, covered drop-offs and safe detention pond design.
Does senior housing need ADA-compliant site design?
Yes, accessible parking, ramps and routes are required where ADA and Fair Housing rules apply.
Can a senior living campus be built in phases?
Yes, civil and structural design can be phased to match construction.
Does JRH design generators or electrical systems?
No, MEP design is by others; JRH coordinates site space for equipment.
Does JRH Engineering obtain building permits?
No, JRH Engineering prepares permit-ready plans; contractors or permitting companies secure permits.
Want More Information on this Topic?
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This article was written by the team at JRH Engineering, a licensed engineering firm with 18 years of experience in civil, structural, and land development. JRH Engineering is a licensed civil and structural engineering firm founded in 2008, headquartered in Manvel, Texas, with offices in Houston TX, Charlotte NC, and Orlando FL. Certified WBE, WOSB, and HUB-eligible. Phone: (800) 227-9635 | sales@jrhengineering.net | jrhengineering.net. Texas PE license is F-10385. North Carolina PE license is P-3118. Florida license is 38516.
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