DALLAS-Centex Construction doesn't take "no" for an answer in a competitor's merger plan with another company. The Dallas-based supplier will now act as a back-up buyer if a merger between Republic and Premier Construction Statutory Trust falls apart.

HOUSTON-A startup, backed by Chevron, Texaco and Ariba, is prepping for a global operation, leasing 50,000 sf. The site will house a headquarters and customer support center.

HOUSTON-A bit of Texas' oil history strikes a modern-day $70 million gusher in the form of a hotel and apartment tower. The historically significant Humble Oil headquarters is being converted into 362 hotel rooms, 82 luxury apartments and 6,000 sf of retail space.

HOUSTON-After 42 years in the same spot, the Federal Reserve Bank has decided to build a new headquarters and vault facility. The 270,000-sf project will break ground next year and is anticipated to take nearly two years to complete.

IRVING, TX-FedEx selects a "tried and true" project developer for a 60,000-sf expansion of its 110,000-sf software operations facility. Koll Corporate Development says the completed project will deliver in December.

AUSTIN-Purchasers secure nearly 250,000 sf of office space at average selling prices of $90 per sf. The deals signal the city's market is getting stronger, says the broker who did the negotiating.

ARLINGTON, TX-A leading female-owned business adds space and equipment to keep up with growing demands in the high-color lithography trade. The expansion is being necessitated by projected growth rates for the future.

HOUSTON-The long-vacant Plaza Hotel is being eyed for an adaptive reuse project into city apartments. The Finger Cos. is negotiating the possibility with the 70,000-sf structure's owner, Legato Interests.