HOUSTON-O'Conner & Associates latest market update says the retail sector is being choked by the nation's weakened economy and uncertain times. Houston's retail is down about 1.2 million sf in absorption, a hit softened to 344,147 sf for the last four quarters.

HOUSTON-Hosting the 2012 Summer Olympics means short-term highs of $500 million of new construction, $1.2 billion for the hospitality sector and $4.3 billion overall. The long term is Houston, if selected, would emerge more of a destination location.

HOUSTON-CSC Credit Services signs a renewal and expansion at Bridgewood II near the Bush Intercontinental Airport. The proximity to the airport and an abundance of hotel rooms for traveling account execs are part of the reason for staying put.

HOUSTON-L.J. Melody & Co. of Houston gets final signatures on loan packages for multifamily projects in Houston and Madison, WI. The under-construction 3333 Allen Parkway in Houston secures a $59-million package for developer Simmons Vedder.

THE WOODLANDS, TX-The Woodlands Mall anchor is building on a 2.72-acre tract along Ring Road. The project has just broken ground and will result in a 20,000-sf freestanding furniture showcase that delivers in March 2002.

HOUSTON-RWE Trading Americas takes 24,625 sf at 4 Houston Center to open a US headquarters and its first US location. The deal brings another energy trader to Houston's trading floor and takes the office building to 97% occupancy.

HOUSTON-With security foremost on everyone's minds, Equity Office Properties Trust has hired a new firm to oversee its 2.7 million-sf Houston office portfolio. Mum's the word on new measures as well as who American Commercial replaces.

HOUSTON-A multi-million-dollar substation is on line at the 650,000-sf Metro Technology Center-Houston in the Galleria submarket. The construction wraps up just months before electricity deregulation takes effect in Texas.