INFRASTRUCTURE: PLANNING FOR GENERATIONS Behind every headline project is a massive investment in infrastructure. Taylor’s wastewater treatment plant has been modernized to handle up to 4 million gallons per day, with room to expand as growth continues. “We’re currently using 1.5 million,” Ariola says. “But as development increases, we’ll hit those thresholds that require us to start planning for the next facility. We’re already looking at potential sites downstream of Samsung and talking about oversized infrastructure so we’re not replacing it in 30 years.” On the transportation side, the partnerships with TxDOT and Williamson County are transforming regional mobility. The East Wilco Highway—a new connector linking Taylor to SH 130 and I-35—is under construction, while Samsung Boulevard will form a southern loop around the city. Expansion of Highway 973 to six lanes will further improve north-south access. “These roads are critical,” White says. “They open up entire corridors for commercial, industrial, and residential growth.They’re also what make Taylor the emerging hub for the northeast side of the Austin metro area.” PARKS, RECREATION, AND QUALITY OF LIFE For Mayor Ariola, growth isn’t just about infrastructure—it’s about livability. The city recently completed a recreation center feasibility study and continues to update its Parks and Recreation Master Plan, ensuring eligibility for future grants and guiding future amenities. “We lost a YMCA vote years ago,” he says. “Now everyone wants a recreation center. We’re not ready yet, but we’re planning for it—an indoor pool, training facilities, walking tracks, all of it. We’ve also invested in ADA upgrades to our pool, new trails, and park expansions. Every new development we approve includes connectivity to our hiking and biking network.” White adds that amenities are as much about workforce development as they are about leisure. “The next generation of workers cares about quality of life,” he says.“They want trails, outdoor spaces, and family-friendly parks. Those things are part of what makes Taylor competitive.” THE FUTURE OF TAYLOR Both Ariola and White see the next decade as the 35 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 12 TAYLOR, TX
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