175 years after our city’s founding, Downtown Waco is stepping into new beginnings. Formerly a central point of commerce and industry, the city introduced iconic landmarks like the Alico building, once the tallest building west of the Mississippi River. Now, Downtown Waco is set for even more notable architecture and exciting events!

Phase 1: Laying the Foundation

The first phase lays the groundwork for future development in Downtown Waco. Efforts will include floodplain mitigation and upgraded water and sewer infrastructure. Along with extending and improving streets, there are plans to construct a new parking structure featuring ground-level commercial and retail spaces located directly across from Washington Avenue.

Additionally, a new modern City Hall and WISD Building will be built on Austin Avenue, providing a more centralized and welcoming “people’s house.” Designed to reflect both the city’s history and its future growth, the updated building will feature green spaces and gathering areas and face the reimagined Heritage Square. Having an updated government building will help drive further investment in the surrounding areas, framing Downtown Waco as the heart of our city’s civic and social life.

Phase 2: Enhancing Entertainment and Commerce

The second phase of the development will introduce cultural and entertainment amenities to energize Downtown Waco. A new convention center and performing arts center venue will attract events and performances like this city has never seen.

The Mary Avenue Festival Street will be a key location for community events and festivals – linking East and West Waco after the completion of the old Cotton Belt Bridge. This state-of-the-art facility will serve as a hub for city administration and public engagement.

Additionally, the 4-star Headquarters Hotel will include 350 rooms, with two-room towers facing the river and McLane Stadium, along with an elevated amenity deck and shaded green spaces for relaxation.

Phase 3: Transforming Waco Square

The Town Center phase focuses on creating a vibrant center for the town, with public spaces and upgraded infrastructure. Upon the completion of the convention center complex, the town will have a featured gathering place created for a dynamic hub of community activities and private development. Landscaping will be a prominent part of development, to help pedestrians and vehicles navigate the newly constructed square.

Lastly, the current City Hall will be refurbished to help solidify this phase’s plans to contribute to Waco’s long-term economic development, by updating the technological infrastructure and allowing spaces to be leased.

Phase 4: The Sports and Entertainment District

In later years of expansion, a new stadium and the implementation of an entertainment district will help improve economic activity and enhance infrastructure.

The City of Waco plans to build a new stadium that can accommodate a minor league baseball team and community activities, enhancing sports culture and creating more historical events – much like the 1929 exhibition between the New York Yankees and Chicago Cubs.

Inspired by Arlington’s ‘Texas Life,’ the baseball district seeks to foster a vibrant community through community events and outdoor entertainment. In addition to the district, a Youth Sports Complex is set to provide East Waco with valuable amenities and create new opportunities for engagement.

Overall, the plans for redevelopment over the next two decades will help to strengthen the new Waco’s economic growth, community engagement, and recreational opportunities! The City of Waco is eager to embrace this expansion, recognizing it as a transformative part of a thriving and lively community. All photos of future development can be found on the City of Waco’s downtown development website.