(UPDATE) A proposed residential development in Texas aimed at serving a predominantly Muslim community has stirred both public debate and official scrutiny, highlighting deep cultural, legal, and political tensions.

The project, which is reportedly being planned near the city of Houston, envisions a self-contained neighborhood catering primarily to Muslim families, complete with a mosque, halal grocery stores, Islamic schools, and community centers.

Organizers and investors behind the project say it is designed to offer a safe, culturally familiar environment for Muslim Americans looking to live in accordance with their faith.

Supporters of the proposal argue that the community is about inclusivity and religious freedom — core American values.

“We want a space where we can freely practice our religion and raise our families in a supportive environment,” said one of the project’s backers, who asked not to be named due to recent threats.

However, critics claim the proposed development could lead to cultural isolation and raise questions about assimilation.

“This is not about freedom of religion — it’s about creating parallel societies,” said one local resident at a town hall meeting.

Others have voiced concerns about property values, infrastructure strain, and even national security.

The controversy has prompted local and state officials to take a closer look.

While the development does not appear to violate any zoning or planning laws, investigations have been launched to examine its funding sources and potential foreign involvement.

Federal agencies are reportedly looking into whether international organizations with political or ideological agendas may be supporting the initiative.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has called for “transparency and vigilance,” while emphasizing that “all lawful residents have the right to form communities that reflect their values.”

Nonetheless, he urged that “no group should form enclaves that reject American values or laws.”

Civil rights groups, meanwhile, have condemned the investigations as discriminatory.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has released a statement saying, “There is no investigation when other religious or cultural communities develop similar neighborhoods. Singling out Muslim Americans sends a dangerous message.”

Within hours of the DOJ investigation being announced, Gov. Abbott confirmed Sunday evening that “no construction” is taking place on the proposed site in Josephine.

“Texas has halted any construction of EPIC City. There is no construction taking place. The state of Texas has launched about a half dozen investigations into this project.

That includes criminal investigations,” Abbott wrote on X. “And, the US Department of justice is also investigating. This matter, and similar matters, are taken very seriously, and actions are being taken to address all concerns.”