Killeen revitalizes downtown with bold new initiatives

In a recent government meeting, Killeen officials provided an optimistic update on the revitalization of downtown Killeen, highlighting significant progress made over the past few years. Kate Kizio, the community engagement coordinator, detailed the city's efforts to address long-standing issues that had led to economic decline and community apathy in the area.

Killeen's downtown revitalization began with the adoption of a downtown action agenda in 2007, followed by a comprehensive downtown plan in 2010. However, the latter plan expired in 2020 without substantial implementation. Kizio noted that the comprehensive plan identified six barriers to revitalization, including a historical shift in development away from downtown, economic abandonment, lack of leadership, and physical impediments due to deteriorating buildings.

In response, the city has shifted its focus from attracting large developers to supporting existing small businesses through grants and incentives. Since the adoption of the Clean 2040 plan, 62 businesses have opened in the downtown area, creating 162 jobs. The city has also implemented various initiatives to enhance vibrancy, including public art installations, community volunteer efforts, and the revival of the farmers market, which now attracts an average of 1,500 attendees weekly.

Kizio reported that total downtown investment in 2023 reached nearly $10 million, with a remarkable return of $8.41 in private investment for every dollar spent by the city. The city has also received recognition for its efforts, including the Texas Downtown Award for best economic game changer in 2023.

Looking ahead, Killeen aims to secure a Texas Main Street designation and expand improvement grants to cover a broader area. The city is also preparing for several upcoming ribbon-cutting events for new businesses.

In addition to the downtown update, the meeting included discussions on changes to the nomination and appointment process for the Bell County Tax Appraisal District Board of Directors, set to take effect in 2025. The new process will involve nominations from all taxing entities in Bell County, with Killeen holding a portion of the total voting power.

Overall, the meeting underscored Killeen's commitment to revitalizing its downtown area and improving community engagement, with officials expressing pride in the progress made and optimism for the future.