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Waco council authorizes property acquisitions, including potential eminent domain, for downtown redevelopment
Summary
Council approved Resolution 2026-13 authorizing acquisition of specified properties and easements in the Baron's Branch downtown redevelopment Phase 1A, allowing use of eminent domain if necessary for parkland, utilities and right-of-way.
WACO — The Waco City Council adopted Resolution 2026-13 on Jan. 20 authorizing acquisition of multiple property interests needed for the downtown redevelopment project (Phase 1A, Baron's Branch District), and preserving the city’s authority to use eminent domain if negotiations do not secure required rights.
In a detailed motion read into the record, the council moved to rescind a prior resolution and to authorize acquisition of portions of parcels on Washington Avenue and adjacent properties for utility easements, access easements, public access to parkland and right‑of‑way. The acquisition language includes explicit authorization to pursue condemnation if necessary to obtain the land rights required for the redevelopment project.
Council materials and the motion said the parcels are located generally between Washington Avenue and Jefferson Avenue near the Brazos River; the acquisitions were described as necessary to implement public right‑of‑way, parkland access and utility improvements for the downtown redevelopment project.
Councilmembers voted to approve the resolution after a second; the clerk announced that the motion passed. The resolution directs staff to proceed with acquisition efforts and leaves open standard legal remedies, including eminent domain, should negotiations fail.
