WWW.CI.CROWLEY.TX.US CROWLEY TEXAS SMALL BUT SURGING AHEAD WITH GROWTH
CROWLEY, TX SMALL BUT SURGING AHEA WITH GROWTH AT A GLANCE CROWLEY, TX WHAT: A growing suburban city known for its family-friendly atmosphere, affordable housing, and community-oriented events. WHERE: North Texas, primarily in Tarrant County, within the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. WEBSITE: www.ci.crowley.tx.us BUILDING MOMENTUM: INFRASTRUCTURE, PARKS, AND ECONOMIC REVIVAL 1 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10
AD H Crowley, Texas, may be small, but it has a deep sense of history and a bright future. Situated on the southwestern edge of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, this closeknit community has grown considerably over the past two decades while preserving its small-town charm. To gain insight into what makes Crowley special, we spoke with key city officials: Cristina Winner, Assistant City Manager; Jay Hinton, Media Relations Coordinator; and Matt Elgin, Assistant City Manager. 2 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10
SMALL-TOWN FEEL IN A GROWING CITY While the city has expanded significantly, much of Crowley’s historical charm remains intact, a quality cherished by its residents. Winner notes, “Crowley spans about seven and a half square miles. It’s not a very big city and maintains that small-town feel, even though it has experienced much growth over the last couple of decades.” The population has doubled in the past 20 years, reaching approximately 21,000 residents, marking a notable increase for a city of its size. The growth has primarily been residential, with many young families attracted to Crowley’s peaceful yet connected environment. “Our demographics skew young, with many families in their mid-30s,” says Winner. This trend is further supported by the local school district, which covers a much larger area—59 square miles—than the city itself.This can sometimes lead to confusion, as people often associate the larger school district with Crowley’s size. Conveniently located just 12 to 15 miles from downtown Fort Worth, Crowley offers residents a unique balance. Elgin explains, “We’re on the outskirts of the Metroplex, which is convenient for people who want to live away from the hustle and bustle of a big city but still have access to it.” This proximity to Fort Worth has contributed to the city’s appeal for those looking to settle in a quieter, more community-focused setting. The town’s historical roots lie in agriculture and dairy farming, which has shaped its enduring values. Winner notes that Crowley was once a dairy town and continues to be “rooted in family and faith.” Even as the city has grown, these values remain central to the community, creating a strong sense of belonging among residents. FUTURE-PROOFING INFRASTRUCTURE Major infrastructure projects have accompanied Crowley’s growth to ensure the city’s development is sustainable and well-supported. One of the most substantial undertakings in recent years has been the transformation of Main Street, which serves as the city’s central artery. “We did a major stormwater drainage improvement 3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10 CROWLEY, TX
about four years ago to enhance drainage from Main Street, and that set the stage for a larger downtown project,”says Elgin.This $12 million project,supported by $4.5 million in state and federal funding, involved roadway improvements, installing a curbed bike lane, sidewalks, and a new underground drainage system. “We wanted to create a visual and functional space that would attract residents and new businesses,” Elgin adds. This transformation included burying overhead power lines to enhance the downtown area’s aesthetics and functionality. “The goal was to create a walkable downtown where people feel connected and can engage with the local businesses,” Elgin explains. The project also introduced two new roundabouts— Crowley’s first—which initially required some adjustment for local drivers. In addition to Main Street’s improvements, Crowley has focused on upgrading its utility infrastructure to support new residential developments. One of the most significant projects in this area was the completion of a 42-inch sanitary sewer main in 2018. In partnership with Fort Worth, this project improved wastewater services for Crowley and surrounding areas. “We’re a wholesale customer of Fort Worth for water and wastewater, so we don’t have our own treatment facilities,” Elgin explains. “The upgrades we’ve made are crucial for supporting the city’s northern development, where a lot of new housing is being built.” Currently, Crowley is in the planning stages of another major project: a new 24-inch potable water transmission line to serve the northern side of the city. This, along with plans to install an elevated water storage tank and ground storage tanks, will ensure that Crowley has the necessary infrastructure to meet the demands of its growing population. MAIN STREET MAKEOVER Crowley’s Main Street revitalization project emphasizes upgrading infrastructure, attracting businesses, and creating a lively, dynamic city center. “The goal behind the Main Street project was to encourage economic development in the city’s heart,” says Hinton. With many businesses on Main Street having closed in recent years, the city recognized an 4 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10
THE NEHEMIAH COMPANY- SUSTAINABLE, AWARD-WINNING AND CUTTING-EDGE The Nehemiah Company has elevated the art of real estate development to offer housing solutions that are a cut above the competition. Through thoughtful design and a winning approach, this leading developer firmly has the finger on the pulse of the housing market while continuing to utilize a forward-thinking and adaptable design model to provide the right niche in a housing market that needs innovative housing options. At the core of the Nehemiah Company’s design philosophy is the preservation of nature, ensuring that the communities that it builds are both sustainable and a result of collaboration with key partners, including architects, technicians, and urban planners that come to the design table with the same goal; to create communities that built on hope, resiliency and keep that environment at the forefront. Based in Arlington, Texas, and specializing in developing top-caliber projects in partnership with local municipalities, The Nehemiah Company has the experience and reputation for undertaking significant projects, including managing the development of one of the largest infill projects in the country in Arlington, Texas, and a master-planned in development in Denton County, Texas with a focus on transit links. Laying the foundation for top-tier projects that rest on value-based principles, including trustworthiness, intentionalism, and value-driven housing projects, The Nehemiah Company has constructed a design path forward that is both community-based and forward-thinking. Something good is Growing in Crowley The Nehemiah Company partners with local city and county governments in developments that foster an approach totally focused on creating hopeful, resilient, sustainable communities that uplift people and protect nature. We’re excited by the Crowley Comprehensive Plan 2024 renovations incorporating nature, public engagement, parks and walkable thoroughfares, and economic development. Karis is a proud part of that plan to build additional residences near green space and trails to develop naturally and fulfill the City of Crowley’s 2045 vision. CROWLEY, TX
opportunity to reinvigorate the area. Several new businesses have already set up shop on Main Street, with more on the way. One of the most popular newcomers is Moontower Pizza, a local favorite known for its record-breaking pizza size. “They have a bit of a cult following, and their food is great,” says Winner. Another exciting addition is Fred’s Texas Cafe, a beloved local chain opening its third location in Crowley. “Fred’s has been featured on *Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives*, so we’re thrilled to have them here,” says Hinton. These new businesses are just the beginning of Crowley’s downtown transformation. The city’s Economic Development Corporation (EDC) has played a crucial role in acquiring properties along Main Street, which will help guide future development. “We’ve purchased land to foster growth, and now we’re working on building relationships with developers to bring new businesses to the area,” says Elgin. The goal is to create a walkable downtown that offers a variety of dining and shopping options for residents and visitors alike. “We’re trying to keep people in our city,” says Hinton. “By bringing in new restaurants and businesses, we can offer residents more reasons to stay local rather than going to nearby cities like Burleson or Fort Worth.” Recognizing the work the city is undertaking to transform the core of the city,The Crowley downtown improvements and Main Street Plaza Park have been nominated for 2 different awards in the 2024 Texas Downtown Association’s statewide call for projects. On Friday October 4, 2024 the Texas Downtown Facebook page announced the Crowley Crossing Plaza Project had won the People’s Choice vote for the Best New Construction and in other categories it won Best Public Improvement and Best New Construction in the Under 50k Population category. INVESTING IN RECREATION While Crowley focuses on economic development, the 6 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10
city’s leadership is equally committed to enhancing the quality of life for its residents. They’re achieving this through the Parks Master Plan, which outlines the creation of new recreational opportunities and green spaces. “Our focus has been on quality of life,” says Winner. “Over the last several years, we’ve built new facilities like a library, a fire station, a recreation center, and an event center in one of our parks.” These projects are all part of the city’s broader effort to provide residents with the amenities they need to live, work, and play in Crowley. One of the standout features of Crowley’s parks system is the disc golf course in Bicentennial Park, 7 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10 CROWLEY, TX VOLUME 4, ISSUE 01
an 18-hole course that attracts players from across the Metroplex.“The Frisbee golf group that uses the course maintains it themselves,” says Elgin. “It’s a volunteer effort, and they do a fantastic job keeping it in great condition.” In addition to maintaining existing parks, the city is working to expand its trail system. A new 1.2-mile hike-and-bike trail is being built in a residential development, with plans for further connectivity. “Trails were one of the top requests we received during our Parks Master Plan public feedback sessions,” says Elgin. “We’ve been actively seeking grant opportunities to fund new trails and create more connectivity throughout the city.” 8 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10
CELEBRATING COMMUNITY Crowley also hosts various community events throughout the year, which help bring residents together and foster a sense of community. One of the most significant events is the Fourth of July annual Celebration of Freedom, which draws more than 11,000 people to Bicentennial Park. “For a city of 21,000, having 11,000 people come out for a single event is a huge deal,” says Winner.“People come from all over to enjoy the fireworks and festivities.” Other popular events include a concert series, Movies in the Park, and a fall festival. The city recently introduced an adult Easter egg hunt, which was a massive hit and is expected to become a regular event.“There’s always something going on in Crowley,” Winner adds.“We have a full calendar of events that keep our residents engaged and connected.” LONG-TERM DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY As Crowley continues to grow, the city’s leadership is focused on long-term planning to ensure sustainable development. One of the areas of focus for 2024 and beyond is the implementation of the Parks Master Plan, which includes constructing new amenities in Bicentennial Park, Crowley’s largest green space. “We’ve done a lot of planning, and now it’s time to start implementing those plans,” says Elgin. “We want to make sure our parks and recreational spaces continue to meet the needs of our growing population.” Crowley is also looking to expand its housing options in the longer term.“We currently have around 3,600 buildable lots that are ready for construction, and we’ve seen a steady demand for new homes,” says Elgin.The city has been working with developers like Bloomfield Homes and the Nehemiah Company to build new residential communities that offer homes and amenities like trails and open spaces.“We want to get creative with our developments, making sure they enhance the overall community rather than just building houses,” Elgin adds. THE BEST IS YET TO COME Crowley, Texas, may be small, but it has big dreams. With a focus on quality of life, strategic growth, and community engagement, the city is well on its way to 9 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10 CROWLEY, TX
PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n The Nehemiah Company www.thenehemiahcompany.com becoming a thriving community that offers the best of both worlds: the charm of a small town with the amenities of a larger city. As Crowley’s leadership continues to plan for the future, the city’s focus on infrastructure, parks, economic development, and housing will ensure that Crowley remains a desirable place to live for years. The best is yet to come,” says Elgin proudly. 10 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 10
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