We're thrilled to announce that the Downtown Rowlett Strategic Plan has been officially adopted! This forward thinking Plan provides a roadmap for guiding the growth and development of Downtown Rowlett, ensuring that it remains a vibrant, welcoming place for residents and visitors alike. By establishing clear policies for land use and implementing a community-driven vision, this Plan lays out the steps needed to create a thriving downtown that captures the unique character of Rowlett.

Crafting a Vision Together

The development of this Strategic Plan was a six month collaborative process involving extensive community input. Through open houses, interviews, and discussions with residents, business owners, and local leaders, we gathered valuable insights that shaped the Plan's direction. This community driven approach ensures that the Plan reflects the values and aspirations of Rowlett's residents, truly a plan created "for you, by you."

The result is a living document that will guide Downtown Rowlett's evolution in a way that balances growth with community character, providing a framework for policies, actions, and initiatives that will drive our downtown forward.

A Vision and Mission for Downtown

The Downtown Rowlett Strategic Plan brings together a cohesive vision and mission that defines what we want our downtown to be: a walkable, vibrant destination at the heart of Rowlett, where families, businesses, and visitors alike can enjoy a thriving environment enriched by economic opportunity, local culture, and a small town feel.

• Vision: To be a vibrant destination in the heart of Rowlett, home to diverse attractions and a walkable, family friendly environment, upholding its small town charm while unlocking the potential for new and exciting development.
• Mission: To enhance the community's quality of life by fostering economic activity, providing entertainment opportunities, offering a thriving environment, and serving as a cultural core for the community.

Core Values Guiding Downtown's Growth

The Downtown Rowlett Strategic Plan outlines a set of values that prioritize our community's aspirations for economic growth, authenticity, and public safety. These values serve as the foundation for decisions shaping Rowlett's future:

• Economic Growth: A commitment to creating a thriving economy that benefits residents and attracts new businesses.
• Authentic Sense of Place: Embracing Rowlett's character, with spaces that feel unique and welcoming.
• Arts and Culture: Supporting local cultural events and initiatives that enhance community life.
• Local Business: A focus on growing and supporting locally owned and operated businesses.
• Distinct Shopping and Dining: Creating a downtown where residents and visitors can enjoy unique, memorable experiences.
• Around-the-Clock Activity: Establishing a lively environment with activities and amenities available at all hours.
• Small-Town Character: Preserving Rowlett's charm and community focused atmosphere, even as it grows.
• Recognizable Downtown Identity: Building a cohesive, identifiable downtown that residents are proud of.
• Public Safety and Business-Friendly Environment: Building a safe and accessible space where businesses can thrive.

Setting Goals for the Future

To bring this vision to life, the Downtown Rowlett Strategic Plan outlines nine key goals:

1. Stimulate Development: Encourage both public and private investments to drive economic growth and vitality.
2. Enhance the Pedestrian Experience: Make downtown more walkable, safe, and accessible for residents and visitors.
3. Establish Downtown as an Entertainment Destination: Create spaces and events that make downtown a go to spot for leisure and entertainment.
4. Promote Attractions to Both Residents and Visitors: Highlight downtown's attractions to make Rowlett a destination for both locals and tourists.
5. Support Local Arts and Cultural Initiatives: Foster a vibrant arts and culture scene that enhances downtown's appeal.
6. Simplify Existing City Policies and Regulations to Be More Business Friendly: Streamline policies to encourage new businesses and ease operations for existing ones.
7. Develop Suitable Mixed Use Projects: Promote developments that combine residential, retail, and office spaces to create a more dynamic downtown.
8. Enhance the Safety and Security of the Community: Prioritize public safety measures to ensure a secure downtown environment.
9. Create a Diverse and Multi Purpose Downtown: Establish a downtown area that serves multiple needs (live, work, play) and caters to diverse interests.

Next Steps: Turning Vision into Action

With the values and goals defined, the Plan includes detailed recommendations to guide the next phase of Downtown Rowlett's development. These recommendations cover critical areas like land use, economic vibrancy, connectivity, and placemaking.

Key initiatives include developing mixed use spaces, enhancing transportation options, creating public art, and fostering pedestrian friendly streetscapes. With a focus on accessible transit and beautiful public spaces, Rowlett will provide an inviting environment where residents can live, work, and enjoy.

The Plan's Action Section is a practical guide that outlines the steps needed to turn this vision into reality. With timelines, ownership, and cost impacts specified, the Action Plan serves as a roadmap for future improvements. Additionally, a "Hot List" of nine key actions is included to kick start progress and build momentum for a more vibrant downtown.

The Future Is Bright for Downtown Rowlett

The adoption of the Downtown Rowlett Strategic Plan marks an exciting step forward. By aligning our actions with the community's values, this Plan sets the stage for a bright, sustainable, and dynamic future. We look forward to seeing Rowlett grow and flourish as we create a downtown area that reflects our shared aspirations and serves as the heart of our community.

To explore the full details of the adopted Downtown Rowlett Strategic Plan, click here and discover the roadmap shaping the future of Downtown Rowlett!