Waco Keeps Changing: We Put It All Together So You Don’t Have To

5 minute read

Waco, Texas, experienced a significant surge in real estate development during the spring and summer of 2024, with some projects poised to have a lasting impact on the city for many seasons to come. This wave of growth includes a variety of projects ranging from new restaurants and retail spaces to commercial offices, educational facilities, and large-scale community developments. The city’s landscape is rapidly transforming, promising to enhance its appeal as a vibrant and thriving community in Central Texas.

Waco’s commercial sector is expanding with an influx of new businesses and the growth of existing ones. The local culinary scene is particularly vibrant, with new spots such as Salad and Go, Taco Casa, Blaine’s Restaurant and Wine Shoppe, and Jorge’s Cantina opening their doors or in the works. These new dining options are complemented by the expansion of popular fast-food chains like Popeye’s and Whataburger, which are increasing their presence in the city. Additionally, the Hippodrome’s own eatery, Maria Mezcaleria, is expanding its footprint by adding over 1,000 square feet. And out in China Spring, Billy Bob’s Burgers is opening a new location, broadening the dining choices available to residents and visitors in the surrounding area.

Finally, the highly anticipated Webster Market in downtown Waco is set to open by the end of this year. Spanning more than 50,000 square feet and located just a four-minute walk from the popular Magnolia Silos, the retail and dining hub will house a variety of occupants, including the Brazilian steakhouse Casa Do Brasil. This project is expected to further enhance Waco’s reputation as a dining destination, offering both residents and visitors a diverse array of culinary experiences and quality shopping opportunities.

Education and community development are at the forefront of Waco’s transformation. Baylor University, a cornerstone institution in the city, is undergoing significant improvements. Renovations are currently underway for the Sid Richardson and Draper Academic Buildings, ensuring that these facilities meet modern standards and continue to provide a top-tier educational environment. Additionally, the university has updated the Founder Mall Fountain and Plaza, enhancing the campus’s aesthetic appeal and functionality.

Community amenities are also receiving a boost, with the Doris Miller Community Center expanding to include a new indoor pool. Once completed, this addition will provide enhanced recreational opportunities for Waco’s East side residents. Furthermore, recognizing the growing need for childcare services, Ivy Kids Daycare has opened a new facility on Chapel Road, which will help meet the demands of working families in the area.

Waco’s residential and hospitality sectors are not being overlooked in this development boom. The Waco Creekview Apartments are under construction, adding more multi-family housing options to the city. This project is part of a broader effort to accommodate Waco’s growing population and ensure that residents have access to modern and affordable housing.

In the hospitality sector, the elegant AC Marriott has opened, offering new accommodations for visitors and business travelers alike. The Gloria Inn & Cottages Bed & Breakfast is also undergoing renovations, further enhancing Waco’s appeal as a destination for tourists. These developments are crucial as Waco continues to attract visitors and new residents, driven by its growing economy and the increasing popularity of local attractions like the Magnolia Market.

Waco’s development landscape also includes a variety of other projects that contribute to the city’s dynamic growth. For instance, University Kia is expanding its dealership, reflecting the growing automotive market in the region. Additionally, the Brazos Riverfront development is making headlines as an ambitious mixed-use project that will include residential, retail, and restaurant spaces along the Brazos River. This project aims to create a vibrant, walkable community adjacent to Baylor University, enhancing Waco’s downtown area and providing a unique riverfront experience.

The city is also in the early stages of a $2 billion downtown transformation, which includes plans for a minor league baseball stadium, a new convention center, a hotel, and other mixed-use developments. This transformative project is expected to redefine Waco’s urban core and solidify its status as a central hub in Texas.

Overall, Waco’s development landscape in 2024 is both dynamic and promising. These projects collectively contribute to making Waco a more vibrant, diverse, and convenient city for both residents and visitors. As construction progresses, Waco is poised to solidify its position as a thriving and attractive destination in Central Texas. The ongoing developments are a testament to the city’s growth and its bright future, offering new opportunities for businesses, residents, and investors alike.

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