DALLAS — Cities across North Texas are working to revamp their downtowns to attract foot traffic as more people move to the suburbs.
In downtown Garland, a long-awaited downtown redevelopment project’s been underway since November 2021.
Karin Wiseman, the owner of The Karin Wiseman Collection, has a view of the downtown square right outside her storefront.
“We are so excited. It’s going to give just a fresh, clean look to downtown,” Wiseman said.
Wiseman says she’s worked in downtown Garland for three years, providing “a little bit of influence on how the park is going to look when it’s done.”
The project is one of many that were approved in a $423,700,000 bond from 2019.
Letecia McNatt, coordinator for the Downtown Development Office, says the upgraded square will include new features such as a shaded pavilion, new playground and a more walk-friendly environment.
“Create this urban rest pit in the heart of the community,” McNatt said.
Garland is one of many cities working to try to attract more people to their downtown area. The city has seen 8.5% population growth from 2010 to 2020, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Matt Archer, who is new to Garland, said he is taking on a restaurant venture at just the right time.
“I think being a part of the future of this city and the future of this community is fantastic,” Archer said.
Just a street down from The Karin Wiseman Collection, Archer is busy running Dos Banderas. He took over the Mexican restaurant in August 2019, knowing change was on its way.
“Can’t wait for the city of Garland to be a destination. I think we’re well on our way,” Archer said.
As of now, McNatt says the project’s estimated completion is the end of 2023.
Both Archer and Wiseman say the inconvenience of construction is a small price to pay for a brighter future.